Warning over 'dangerous' nasal tanning sprays sold on social media - what are the risks?
Dangerous and unregulated nasal tanning sprays that have a potential link to the skin cancer melanoma are being widely sold across social media platforms, Trading Standards has warned.
Scottish people sometimes go to extremes to get a tan. Whether it's sunbathing for too long on holiday, or ignoring health advice and using sunbeds, some will go to great lengths for a boost in complexion.
Scots commonly exhibit pale skin, partly due to their Celtic heritage and partly due to Scotland's northern latitude, which leads to less exposure to sunlight.
Some may have darker skin or be able to tan to a greater extent, depending on their genetic makeup. But now a new product is being sold on social media that a darker hue to the skin - but come with great risks.
These nasal sprays can cause nausea, vomiting, high blood pressure and even changes in mole shape and size, the Chartered Trading Standards Institute (CTSI) said.
Nasal tanning sprays are designed to be sprayed into the nostrils and claim to work by administering a substance known as Melanotan 2, a chemical that darkens skin pigmentation.
It is illegal to sell medicinal products containing Melanotan 2 in the UK, but as the tanners are sold cosmetically they fall outside that remit.
However, they are not covered by UK cosmetics regulations, meaning they are not subjected to the same scrutiny as other over-the-counter beauty products.
What are dangers of tanning nasal sprays?
Studies had shown a potential link to melanoma, a type of skin cancer, the CTSI warned.
Inhaling sprays can irritate the respiratory tract, with potential symptoms such as coughing, sneezing and nasal congestion, and repeated exposure can lead to chronic respiratory issues.
One woman, Edith Eagle, told the CTSI that she was in hospital "unable to breathe" after suffering a severe reaction to an unlicensed nasal tanning spray she bought online.
When explaining her symptoms, Ms Eagle said: 'I can't even explain it, but I was suffocating inside.
"It was as if I was drowning within my own body."
The long-term health impacts of using the sprays are not yet known.
However, Cleveland Clinic identified some immediate and scary risks including:
acne
decreased appetite
gastrointestinal issues, including diarrhoea and vomiting
nausea
facial flushing (redness)
"Melanotan nasal sprays and injections are not safe to use," Cancer Research UK stated.
"Melanotan products have not been tested for safety, quality or effectiveness.
"So it is not known if using them causes side effects and how serious they are.
"Also, Melanotan products could have harmful chemicals in them that aren't listed on the label.
"If you have used Melanotan, you should stop.
"Talk to your GP if you have shared needles with someone or if you have any concerns about side effects."
What are the warnings?
The public has been urged to avoid any type of tanning products that are ingested or inhaled.
Instead, safer options such as creams and sprays bought from reputable retailers should be used.
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"Edith's story is a sobering one, and an example of what can happen when putting unregulated products into our bodies," Richard Knight, CTSI lead officer for cosmetics and beauty, said.
"Unlike cosmetic products, nasal tanning sprays are unlikely to have had expert safety assessment, and use of relevant health warnings and instructions for safe use are rare.
"This means that no-one, including influencers, can truly know the risks of using these quasi-medical potions."
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