Popular on social networks, "beer tanning" is a dangerous practice that increases the risk of sunburn and skin cancer. Photo: AFP
The idea of switching sunscreen for beer to get a faster, longer-lasting tan might sound laughable if it hadn't really been tried, tested and made popular by a handful of social media users.
In just a few weeks, the trend has spread across the internet, much to the dismay of health professionals who are alarmed by a craze that's so obviously hazardous to health.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the US, and that the "most preventable cause of skin cancer is overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) light, either from the sun or from artificial sources like tanning beds".
All of which is a good reason to stay safe in the sun and protect yourself from irreversible damage caused by ultraviolet rays.
This means, above all, applying sunscreen suited to your skin type and to the exposure conditions – and reapplying it every two hours – not to mention steering clear of dubious practices like "beer tanning".
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What is 'beer tanning'?
"Best tan ever!"
This is how 'beer tanning' is presented on social networks, particularly on TikTok, where the would-be hack has taken off.
As a result, hashtags dedicated to this trend – if you can call it that – counted over 200,000 views at the beginning of August, with the summer season in full swing.
The concept is quite simple, albeit dangerous, in that you simply swap your usual sunscreen for beer and coat your body with the famous beverage. According to users of the Chinese social network, the hops contained in the beer activate melanin, resulting in faster, more effective tanning.
As you've probably understood, this trend is as dubious as it is dangerous. And for good reason: it considerably increases the risk of sunburn and, by extension, skin cancer.
Under no circumstances is it advisable to indulge in this practice – which, by the way, is in no way appealing – nor is it advisable to try slathering yourself in olive oil and lemon juice, another tip doing the rounds on social networks.
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Nothing can replace sun protection
In summer, as all year round, it's essential to protect your skin when it's exposed to the sun, and to do so with protection adapted to your skin type and the sunlight conditions.
No other "miracle formula" can replace this protection, especially without being the subject of any form of scientific research.
Speaking to The Independent, London-based dermatologist Dr Maham Khan warns: "As a consultant dermatologist treating patients with skin cancer on a daily basis, I feel compelled to stress the utmost importance of exercising caution and mindfulness when it comes to the TikTok trend of ‘beer tanning’.
"While the desire to achieve a glowing tan is understandable, it is crucial to approach this trend with caution and prioritise sun protection."
The only way to protect yourself from the harmful effects of sun exposure is to follow official guidance.
As we've seen, this means applying sun protection, but that's not all.
The French health authorities also recommend covering up with clothing, a hat and appropriate sunglasses, and avoiding exposure to the sun between 12pm and 4pm. Particular care should be taken to protect children, and people whose work regularly exposes them to the sun. – AFP Relaxnews
