A doctor has issued a stark warning about a popular but illegal tanning method, nasal tanning spray, highlighting its dangerous side effects including diarrhoea, nausea, headaches, and an increased risk of cancer. Trading Standards have flagged that these sprays are illegal to buy in the UK because they commonly contain unregulated ingredients.
What Is Nasal Tanning Spray and Why Is It Dangerous?
Dr Rupa Parmar, a GP and Medical Director at Midland Health, explained that nasal tanning spray accelerates tanning by using a synthetic hormone called Melanotan II to stimulate melanin production. However, she stressed that 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,” she said.
Side Effects and Long-Term Risks
Users of nasal tanning sprays may experience a range of side effects, including 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 lead to nasal congestion, respiratory tract irritation, and potentially respiratory failure.
Long-term risks include skin damage, a high cancer risk, and organ strain. Medical professionals have linked the sprays to melanoma skin cancer, kidney dysfunction, and high blood pressure. Dr Parmar emphasised: “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.”
Illegal Trade and Dependency
The sprays cannot be bought legally, forcing users to rely on the black market, including illicit social media adverts. This means users have no idea what they are actually taking. By purchasing these sprays, users directly contribute to an illegal trade that prioritises profit over customer safety. Dr Parmar also warned that coming off the sprays can be difficult due to dependency, as untested ingredients can lead to a compulsion to keep spraying. She advised anyone struggling to reach out to their GP for help, stating: “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.”
