A GP has issued a serious warning about a popular but illegal tanning method that could have harmful health consequences. Trading Standards has clarified that nasal tanning sprays, widely marketed as a quick way to achieve a dark tan, are illegal to buy in the UK due to their unregulated and potentially dangerous ingredients.
Dr Rupa Parmar, GP and Medical Director at Midland Health, urges caution for anyone considering these sprays. She explains that nasal tanning sprays contain Melanotan II, a synthetic hormone intended to boost melanin production and accelerate tanning. However, these products are unlicensed and unregulated, meaning they have not undergone safety testing and may contain harmful substances or incorrect dosages.
“The main concern is that these sprays bypass medical regulations, which raises the risk of contamination or adverse reactions. Users may experience side effects such as nausea, diarrhoea, decreased appetite, dizziness, headaches, respiratory irritation, and allergic responses. In men, the sprays may cause sudden libido changes and spontaneous erections,” Dr Parmar explains.
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Inhalation of these chemicals can irritate the respiratory tract, causing congestion and potentially leading to respiratory failure. Long-term risks include skin damage, increased risk of melanoma skin cancer, kidney problems, and high blood pressure.
Purchasing these sprays typically involves the black market, including illicit social media advertising, leaving users unaware of the true contents and contributing to a dangerous illegal trade focused on profit over safety.
Dependency is another issue; some users find it difficult to stop using nasal tanning sprays due to their untested ingredients, which can cause addiction. Dr Parmar advises anyone struggling to quit to seek medical support promptly to minimize long-term damage and not to feel embarrassed about asking for help.
No cosmetic benefit outweighs the significant health dangers posed by these illegal tanning sprays. Safer, regulated alternatives should always be chosen to protect your health.