For many people, tanning products are a must in their summer routine. But warnings from Trading Standards suggest that one popular product, nasal tanning spray, is illegal to buy in the UK, as it commonly contains unregulated ingredients and can cause severe side effects.
Dr Rupa Parmar, GP and Medical Director at Midland Health, is urging people to think twice before using the sprays, sharing the risks of purchasing unregulated products, and tanning alternatives that don’t have health risks.
Dr Rupa Parmar said, “Nasal tanning spray accelerates tanning by using a synthetic hormone called Melanotan II to stimulate melanin production. Though this sounds great for those looking for a quick, dark tan, in reality, these products are unlicensed, unregulated, and potentially dangerous.
“The biggest concern I have is that the sprays are unregulated, bypassing medical restrictions and safety testing, meaning that they can be potentially contaminated, contain dangerous chemicals, or include the wrong dose. This can cause adverse side effects and even lead to long-term, potentially irreversible complications.
“With any product, it’s important to know the side effects that come with use. Users of nasal tanning sprays may experience nausea, diarrhoea, decreased appetite, dizziness, headaches, respiratory irritation, coughing, and allergic reactions. In men, it can cause sudden changes in libido and spontaneous erections.
“Inhaling chemicals can also cause nasal congestion from irritating the respiratory tract, potentially leading to respiratory failure. Further long-term risks of using the sprays include skin damage, high cancer risk, and organ strain. Medical professionals have linked their use to melanoma skin cancer, kidney dysfunction, and high blood pressure. No tan is worth the danger to your health, especially given that the side effects are unpleasant and the potential for long-term health complications would require ongoing medical attention.
“The sprays also can’t be bought legally, meaning users rely on the black market, such as illicit social media adverts, to purchase the products. This means you have no idea what you are actually taking, and by purchasing these sprays, you are directly contributing to an illegal trade that continually puts profit over its customers’ safety.
“For some, coming off tanning sprays can be difficult, as they can cause dependency, making users feel compelled to keep spraying. This is especially true when the sprays include untested ingredients that can directly lead to dependence. If you are struggling, reach out to your GP, who can help you slowly stop taking the sprays. Never feel embarrassed to ask a medical professional for help; it’s best to stop as soon as you can to minimise the risk of long-term impacts.”
