Can Carrots Give You a Sun-Kissed Glow?

A peculiar beauty trend has surged on TikTok, involving the consumption of carrots in pursuit of a naturally bronzed complexion. Influencers on the platform claim that integrating carrots into your daily diet can alter your skin’s undertone, resulting in a sun-kissed radiance. The recommended daily intake to achieve this effect is said to be three carrots.

This trend sparked a wave of interest, with approximately 3.2 million TikTok creators joining in. It all began when influencer @isabelle.lux shared a video showcasing her “carrot tan” journey, featuring before-and-after photos that notably displayed changes in her skin tone after consistent carrot consumption.

Isabelle Lux herself attested, “I’ve been eating three large carrots a day for the last few years. I don’t fake tan anymore, I don’t go out in the sun during the daytime.”

But can consuming carrots genuinely modify your skin’s undertone, or is this merely a ploy to encourage healthier eating habits? According to certified holistic nutritionist Maria Marlowe, the claim holds true. She explained that carrots contain beta-carotene, a carotenoid that can alter skin colour when consumed regularly, imparting a golden hue. Research published in the journal Evolution and Human Behaviour even suggests that such a complexion is perceived as more attractive by the opposite sex, indicating good health and a diet rich in antioxidants.

Marlowe emphasised that visible results may take 2-3 weeks of consistent carrot consumption, and it’s essential to remember that carrots do not replace the need for sunscreen.

Furthermore, a study in the Journal of Raman Spectroscopy supports this notion, revealing that carotenoids in the skin act as a barrier against environmental factors like UV radiation, air pollution, and smoking.

While many TikTok users have embraced the “carrot tan” trend, some remain sceptical, sharing their own experiences. Healthline suggests that while carrots may influence skin tone, there are no significant risks associated with the trend, except for the potential for nutrient imbalances if carrots displace other vital foods in one’s diet.