Apparently, Coca-Cola is now being used as self-tanning, and it works. According to Allure, that’s because “the soda contains a caramel dye, which when applied to the skin, can give it that coveted characteristically bronzed tone.”
But that doesn’t make it good for you.
“While some feel that Coca-Cola can speed up your tan, it actually can be dangerous, and I recommend staying away from it. Applying it to the skin may lead to a temporary darkening or staining of the skin, but because sodas are acidic, it may exfoliate dead cells, enhancing the ability of UV light penetrate into the skin. Ultimately, this may increase your risk of a sun burn.”