From the Research
Orange skin is primarily caused by excessive consumption of carotenoid-rich foods, a condition called carotenemia, as evidenced by a recent study published in 2022 1. This condition occurs when beta-carotene accumulates in the bloodstream and deposits in the skin, particularly in areas with thicker skin like palms, soles, and nasolabial folds. Some key points to consider:
- Unlike jaundice, the whites of the eyes remain normal in carotenemia.
- Other causes include certain medications such as quinacrine, medical conditions like hypothyroidism which slows carotenoid metabolism, and some liver diseases.
- Artificial tanning products containing dihydroxyacetone (DHA) can also create an orange appearance if applied incorrectly.
- For food-related carotenemia, reducing intake of carotenoid-rich foods typically resolves the condition within weeks to months, as the body gradually eliminates the excess carotenoids.
- The condition is generally harmless, though persistent unexplained skin discoloration should be evaluated by a healthcare provider to rule out more serious causes, as noted in a case report from 2019 2.
- It's worth noting that carotenemia can be caused by the excessive intake of various carotenoid-rich foods, including carrots, sweet potatoes, pumpkins, and other yellow or orange-colored foods, as well as some green vegetables, as reported in earlier studies 3, 4, 5.