A recent social media trend in Egypt, known as "boiling water" or "new tea," has sparked warnings from health experts. The challenge, which involves two people holding hands and having boiling water poured over them, has been shared on various social media platforms, particularly TikTok. The trend is presented as a test of friendship, with participants aiming to demonstrate their ability to endure pain and share difficult experiences.
Dr. Zeinab Knieou, a dermatologist and cosmetic specialist, has cautioned against the dangers of this trend. According to her, burns caused by boiling water can be severe and have long-lasting effects. She explained that hot water can cause first-degree burns, characterized by pain and redness, without necessarily leading to skin peeling. However, these burns can result in permanent changes to skin color, particularly in darker skin tones.
The severity of burns depends on the water temperature and the duration of skin exposure. Dr. Knieou emphasized that the trend's participants often try to show their ability to tolerate pain together, but this can lead to serious injuries, including permanent scarring and surgical interventions. She urged people to be cautious when engaging with such trends, which can have devastating consequences.
The "boiling water" trend is not an isolated incident, as other social media challenges have also been linked to self-inflicted injuries. Examples include challenges involving ice and the "blackout" trend, where individuals attempt to asphyxiate themselves. Health experts are concerned about the potential harm caused by these trends and advise people to exercise caution when engaging with them.
Dr. Knieou's warnings are echoed by other health professionals, who stress the importance of prioritizing safety and well-being. They encourage people to be mindful of the potential risks associated with social media trends and to avoid engaging in activities that can cause harm. By doing so, individuals can protect themselves from unnecessary injuries and long-term health consequences.
The Egyptian health community is urging social media platforms to take a more proactive role in monitoring and removing content that promotes harm or injury. By working together, it is hoped that the risks associated with social media trends can be minimized, and individuals can engage with online content in a safer and more responsible manner.
As the "boiling water" trend continues to gain attention, health experts are emphasizing the need for public awareness and education. By highlighting the potential dangers of such trends, they aim to prevent further injuries and promote a culture of safety and responsibility on social media.
Key points
- The "boiling water" trend can cause permanent burns and injuries, including first-degree burns, changes in skin color, and scarring.
- Health experts are warning against the dangers of this trend and urging people to exercise caution when engaging with social media challenges.
- The trend is part of a larger concern about social media challenges that promote self-inflicted injuries and harm.
