The practice of darkening the skin is common within the bodybuilding community. It involves altering skin pigmentation, typically through sun exposure, tanning beds, or topical applications, to achieve a darker complexion.
This skin darkening serves primarily to enhance muscle definition and improve aesthetic appeal on stage. A darker skin tone creates greater contrast between the highlights and shadows of the physique, making muscles appear more prominent and well-defined. Historically, stage lighting has often washed out competitors’ features, necessitating a deeper color to ensure visibility and impact. The improved visual presentation can significantly influence judging outcomes.
