Getting a "carrot tan" refers to achieving a yellowish or orange tint to the skin by consuming large quantities of carrots or other foods high in beta-carotene. This skin discoloration is known medically as carotenemia.
To achieve this effect, you need to consume a significant amount of beta-carotene consistently over a period of time, allowing the pigment to accumulate in your skin.
Understanding Carotenemia
Carotenemia is a benign condition resulting from excess carotenoids, primarily beta-carotene, in the bloodstream. When you eat foods rich in beta-carotene, the body converts some of it into Vitamin A. However, if you consume more than the body can convert or excrete, the excess carotenoids circulate in the blood and are deposited in the outer layer of the skin, particularly in areas like the palms of the hands, soles of the feet, and the face. This deposition gives the skin a yellow-orange hue.
How Much is Needed for a Carrot Tan?
Based on published information, a substantial intake of carrots is necessary to induce noticeable skin color changes.
Required Intake and Duration
Reference information indicates specific quantities associated with skin color changes:
- Case Report Finding: One published case report documented a patient consuming approximately 3 kilograms of carrots per week. This is roughly equivalent to eating about seven large carrots each day. This intake level was observed to induce changes in skin color.
- Expert Suggestions: Other experts suggest that a higher intake might be needed. They propose consuming at least ten carrots per day to see color changes. Furthermore, they note that this level of consumption would need to be maintained for at least a few weeks before the effects become visible.
Therefore, achieving a "carrot tan" isn't a quick process and requires a consistent daily intake significantly higher than typical consumption.
Intake Summary
Here's a summary of the suggested intakes based on the reference:
| Source | Estimated Daily Intake | Estimated Weekly Intake | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Published Case | ~7 large carrots | ~3 kg | (Not specified, but effect observed) |
| Other Experts | ≥ 10 carrots | ~3.5 kg (assuming 10 large carrots/day) | At least a few weeks |
Note: Carrot sizes vary, so weight (kg) provides a more consistent measure.
The Process
When you consume large amounts of carrots, the beta-carotene is absorbed in the intestines. While some is used for Vitamin A conversion, the excess travels through the bloodstream. Over time, this circulating beta-carotene builds up in fat tissues and the epidermis (outer layer of skin), resulting in the characteristic yellow-orange discoloration. This process is gradual and requires sustained high intake.
It's important to note that carotenemia is distinct from a suntan, which results from increased melanin production in response to UV radiation. Carotenemia does not protect the skin from sun damage.
