In the realm of social media, trends come and go with surprising speed. One such unique and unexpected trend that took the internet by storm is beer tanning. The origins of this trend are somewhat mysterious, but it is believed to have emerged as a playful and quirky act. The trend involves dripping your body in beer or lager for a good tan.
What Is Beer Tanning?
The trend of beer tanning has become more prevalent on social media in the US, particularly on TikTok. In order to get a better tan, content creators are promoting the practice of pouring beer over their bodies. However, dermatologists and medical professionals are advising against this risky and mistaken trend that suggests that beer hops might activate melanin and increase pigmentation.
But TikTokers’ suggestions to use beer for tanning have no scientific foundation, and heeding them could have negative effects on one’s skin health. In the UK, online searches for “beer tan” have increased by more than 137% since March, which raises questions.
According to an article by Forbes, people claim that the hops in beer assist activate melanin, a component in your body that generates hair, eye, and skin pigmentation, which facilitates a darker, more even tan.
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However, Experts & Dermatologists Are Wary Of This Trend
The trend has had a substantial impact on social media platforms. Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, and Facebook have all witnessed a surge in posts featuring beer tanning. Influencers and individuals alike have embraced the trend as a way to engage their audiences, gaining likes, shares, and followers along the way. Despite its popularity, beer tanning has not been immune to criticism.
However, dermatologists from all around the world have voiced worries about this most recent trend and urged consumers to take safety measures. According to an article by HighSnobiety, a board-certified dermatologist with over 2 million followers on TikTok, Dustin Portela was quoted saying that any method to accelerate tanning leads to more skin damage and increases the risk of skin cancer. Many experts say that the only thing you should apply to your skin before a beach day is sunscreen, not alcohol.
In the dynamic world of social media, trends will continue to emerge and fade, but it is crucial for users to consider the potential implications before hopping on the bandwagon.
Cover image credits: Canva