In Türkiye, children swimming in Lake Van, the world’s largest soda lake, experience a surprising change in hair color during the summer. The high soda content and sun exposure cause their hair to turn blond. This effect fades in the winter when they swim less.
Prof. Dr. Hatice Uce Özkol from Van Yüzüncü Yıl University explained that the soda water’s lightening effect is responsible for the color change, which poses no harm. However, she emphasized the importance of protecting children’s skin from burns, which increase the risk of skin cancer.