Words by ITV News Producer Jamel Smith
Nasal tanning sprays that have been potentially linked to skin cancer are being widely sold on social media, Trading Standards has warned.
The unregulated products have been associated with side effects including nausea, vomiting, high blood pressure and changes to moles – a possible sign of the skin cancer melanoma, according to the Chartered Trading Standards Institute (CTSI).
Nasal tanning sprays are becoming increasingly popular, driven by promotion from influencers and easy access online.
The CTSI also raised concerns about a growing trend for flavoured nasal tanning sprays, with sellers on platforms like Facebook and TikTok promoting them in child-friendly flavours such as bubblegum, grape and strawberry.
Officials warned that the sweet flavours and colourful branding could trigger a “youth epidemic” in nasal tanning sprays, similar to the rise of disposable vapes.
Despite the risks, demand for self-tanning products is rising. The British Beauty Council expects the UK market to hit £746 million by 2027.
What are nasal tanning sprays, and should you be concerned about using them? ITV News explains.
What are nasal tanning sprays?
Nasal tanning sprays are used by spraying them into the nostrils and claim to work by delivering a substance known as melanotan 2, a chemical that darkens skin pigmentation.
What is melanotan?
Melanotan 1 and 2 are synthetic hormones that stimulate the body’s pigment cells to produce more melanin, which darkens the skin when exposed to UV rays.
It’s important to note that melanotan should not be confused with melatonin, which is a hormonal supplement commonly used to treat insomnia and jet lag.
Melanotan is often injected or taken as a nasal spray, but gummies and drops are also emerging as a growing trend.
Is it illegal?
It is illegal to sell medicinal products containing melanotan in the UK. However, because nasal tanners are marketed as cosmetic products, they fall outside that law.
They also are not covered by UK cosmetics regulations, meaning they are not subjected to the same scrutiny as other over-the-counter beauty products.
How dangerous is it?
While the long-term health effects of nasal tanning sprays remain unclear, studies suggest a possible link to melanoma, a serious form of skin cancer, the CTSI warned.
The nasal sprays can also irritate the respiratory tract, with potential symptoms such as coughing, sneezing and nasal congestion. Repeated use may lead to chronic breathing problems.
Cancer Research UK states clearly on its website: “Melanotan nasal sprays and injections are not safe to use.”
The charity adds that melanotan products “have not been tested for safety, quality or effectiveness.”
Susanna Daniels, chief executive of Melanoma Focus, said concerns are growing over both nasal sprays and tanning injections.
“We’re becoming increasingly concerned about the use of both nasal tanning sprays and tanning injections and their potential links with melanoma skin cancer,” she said.
“These unregulated and illegal products not only pose serious health risks but also encourage harmful behaviours, particularly among young consumers.
“We urge the public to consider the long-term impacts on their health and avoid using these substances altogether.”
Are there any alternatives to nasal tanning sprays?
The CTSI has urged the public to avoid tanning products that are ingested or inhaled, recommending safer alternatives like creams and sprays purchased from reputable retailers.
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