A GP has sounded the alarm on a popular but illegal tanning method in the UK that could have harmful consequences. Trading Standards have highlighted that nasal tanning sprays, widely advertised as a quick way to achieve a darker tan, are illegal to purchase and use in the UK due to their unregulated nature and potentially dangerous ingredients.
Dr Rupa Parmar, GP and Medical Director at Midland Health, warns consumers to reconsider before using these sprays, emphasizing both the health dangers and the risks of engaging with illegal products. She explains that nasal tanning sprays work by delivering Melanotan II, a synthetic hormone that stimulates melanin production, the pigment responsible for skin tanning. Although appealing for their promise of rapid tanning, these products bypass crucial medical approvals and safety checks.
“The main issue is these sprays are unlicensed and unregulated, which means users have no guarantee of product safety or accurate dosing,” Dr Parmar explained. “Contaminants or harmful chemicals can be present, posing immediate and long-term health risks.”
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Side effects reported by users include nausea, diarrhoea, loss of appetite, dizziness, headaches, respiratory irritation, coughing, and allergic reactions. Men may also experience sudden libido changes and spontaneous erections. Inhalation of the spray can irritate the nasal and respiratory passages, potentially leading to serious breathing problems.
Beyond short-term symptoms, long-term use increases the risk of severe health issues such as skin damage, heightened cancer risk—including melanoma—kidney problems, and elevated blood pressure. Dr Parmar stresses that no cosmetic benefit justifies these dangers, particularly given the unpleasant side effects and the possibility of chronic health complications requiring ongoing medical care.
Because these sprays are illegal in the UK, users must turn to black market sources, often found through illicit social media adverts. This not only means consumers cannot verify the safety or contents of what they purchase but also supports an illegal trade prioritizing profits over health and wellbeing.
Dependency on these sprays is another concern; some users become reliant on the product, especially when untested ingredients trigger addictive effects. Dr Parmar urges anyone struggling to stop to seek medical advice rather than continuing use. “There’s no shame in asking for help. The sooner you stop, the lower your risk of lasting harm,” she advises.
Ultimately, safer tanning alternatives exist, and protecting one’s health should always come first.