A new warning has been issued over the dangers of nasal tanning sprays as the products experience a resurgence in popularity online.
The Chartered Trading Standards Institute (CTSI) in the UK has issued an urgent warning over the growing popularity of these sprays – often marketed on TikTok and Instagram as fast-acting bronzing solutions.
Beauty professionals are being urged to remain vigilant and educate their clients as a wave of unregulated nasal tanning sprays floods online marketplaces.
Unlike traditional spray tans, these nasal products are inhaled and contain substances not approved for cosmetic use in Ireland and the UK.
Of particular concern is the synthetic hormone Melanotan 2, frequently found in these sprays. It is illegal to sell medicinal products containing Melanotan 2 in Ireland and the UK, but as the tanners are sold cosmetically, they fall outside that remit.
Melanotan 2 works by replicating the function of naturally occurring melanocortin peptides, which are involved with the pigmentation of your skin, acting as a catalyst to stimulate the production of melanin throughout the body, darkening your skin colour. However, reported side effects include nausea, vomiting, elevated blood pressure and mole discolouration.
Experts have even warned of a possible link to melanoma, although further research is needed to understand long-term health risks.
The Health Products Regulatory Authority (HPRA) has previously issued warnings over use of these sprays.
“The HPRA reminds the public that the unregulated substance Melanotan 2 is not safe for use and may cause serious, long-term damage to your health,” it said.
“The HPRA is also concerned that products containing Melanotan 2 are increasingly being targeted towards young people by using bright colours, flavours, and branding. The HPRA will take action against individuals using social media and e-commerce to advertise and supply Melanotan 2 containing products, including the removal of content and accounts, and prosecution activity when there is significant risk to public health.”
CTSI’s concerns come alongside the launch of its #CostofBeauty campaign in the UK, which highlights three high-risk areas currently threatening the UK beauty industry – nasal tanning sprays, nail glue, and professional-use lash lift and tint kits. According to a recent CTSI survey, unsafe cosmetic products now represent the fastest-growing risk to UK consumers.
“Nasal sprays have absolutely no place in a professional tanning salon,” said Gary Lipman, chairman of The Sunbed Association. “We fully support CTSI’s campaign. The end goal must be to eradicate access to these illegal and unregulated products.”
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