ATLANTA March 19, 2026 – Board-certified dermatologist Corrie Alford of MetroDerm is featured in a recent article published by HuffPost titled “People Are ‘Carrotmaxxing’ To Get A Sunless Tan – But Does It Work?” The article explores a viral TikTok trend in which users claim that eating large amounts of carrots can produce a natural-looking tan.
The social media trend, dubbed “carrotmaxxing,” involves consuming 3 or more full-sized carrots daily to achieve a bronzed glow without sun exposure. In the article, Dr. Alford explains the science behind the phenomenon and why the results may not appear as intended.
According to Dr. Alford, eating excessive amounts of carrots can lead to Carotenemia. This condition causes the skin to develop a yellow-orange hue due to elevated beta-carotene levels.
“When a person takes in more beta-carotene than the body needs, the extra gets stored in body fat and can build up in the outermost layer of the skin, causing the yellow or orange hue,” Dr. Alford said in the article.
Beta-carotene is a precursor to Vitamin A and is naturally found in foods such as carrots, squash, sweet potatoes, and pumpkin. While these nutrients play an important role in maintaining overall health, Dr. Alford notes that consuming excessive amounts does not produce an evenly distributed tan that social media users may hope for.
“The color change is typically seen first in the palms and soles of the feet, but is eventually noticeable throughout the skin,” Dr. Alford explained. She also emphasized that the appearance often resembles “a bad spray tan” rather than a natural sun-kissed glow.
The recommended daily intake of vitamin A can generally be met by eating about ¾ to 1 cup of carrots per day, roughly one to two full-size carrots. Consuming significantly more than this over time may lead to visible skin discoloration due to excess beta-carotene storage.
Although hypervitaminosis A – vitamin A toxicity – is unlikely from eating carrots alone, Dr. Alford cautions that an overly carrot-heavy diet can crowd out other essential nutrients needed for overall health.
Dr. Alford stresses that carrots can still be a healthy part of a balanced diet. Vitamin A supports vision, immune function, skin barrier health, and the maintenance of healthy tissues throughout the body.
For those seeking a natural glow, Dr. Alford recommends focusing on overall wellness rather than extreme fads.
“The most impactful dietary habits that affect overall skin health include eating a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables and limiting processed foods,” Dr. Alford noted in the article.
Dr. Alford’s expert insights help provide clarity amid viral social media trends, reinforcing the importance of evidence-based dermatologic guidance for maintaining healthy skin.
To schedule an appointment with Dr. Corrie Alford in the Hiram or Atlanta-Sandy Springs locations, please visit MetroDerm.org or contact your nearest MetroDerm location.
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About MetroDerm
Established in 2003, MetroDerm provides dermatology services, Mohs Micrographic surgery, and plastic surgery. The organization’s team of almost 30 dermatology providers includes highly trained medical practitioners, including a CoolSculpting® National Trainer and Master CoolSculptor; acclaimed plastic surgeons; and cosmetic injectors. MetroDerm is equipped to meet all levels of dermatological need – from skin cancer treatments to medical dermatology and cosmetic treatments ranging from injectables to industry-leading laser treatments. With a long-standing reputation for providing advanced patient-centered care, the medical practice has six locations, including Alpharetta, Buckhead, Hiram, Lilburn, and Sandy Springs. For more information, visit MetroDerm.org.
About MetroDerm’s Center for Plastic Surgery
The state-of-the-art Center for Plastic Surgery at MetroDerm combines a team of highly skilled, internationally renowned, and board-certified plastic surgeons with decades of experience in aesthetic and reconstructive procedures. Their expertise, and reputation for utilizing cutting-edge technologies and dermatological innovation, supports an unwavering dedication to helping patients achieve their aesthetic goals. From injectables and laser treatments to facelifts, breast augmentations, and body contouring procedures, the Center for Plastic Surgery provides a full spectrum of aesthetic procedures and surgeries tailored to individual preferences. The team is patient-centered, prioritizing clear communication, thorough consultations, and setting realistic expectations to ensure a positive experience from start to finish. With locations in the Greater Atlanta area, including Sandy Springs and Hiram, visit CenterForPlasticSurgeryAtlanta.com for more information.