Nose Tanning Sprays Linked to Cancer Risk

The Chartered Trading Standards Institute (CTSI) has issued a warning regarding the use of unregulated nasal tanning sprays, which have been linked to serious respiratory problems and an increased risk of skin cancer. These products, often promoted by influencers on social media platforms, are being marketed as a way to accelerate tanning and darken skin tone.

The CTSI launched the #CostofBeauty campaign on May 16, 2025, to raise public awareness about the safety risks associated with several cosmetic areas, including these nasal sprays, professional-use lash lift and tint kits, and nail glue.

The Risks of Melanotan 2

Many of these nasal sprays contain Melanotan 2, a synthetic hormone designed to accelerate tanning. Health authorities have not approved the use of this substance, and it is illegal to sell medicinal products containing Melanotan 2 in the United Kingdom.

Because these products are often sold as cosmetics rather than medicines, they frequently fall outside the remit of medicinal regulations and are not subjected to the same scrutiny as standard over-the-counter beauty products. This lack of regulation means the sprays may contain dangerous ingredients that are unsafe to inhale.

Immediate side effects associated with the use of these sprays include:

• Nausea and vomiting
• High blood pressure
• Changes in the size and shape of moles

Beyond immediate reactions, there are severe long-term health concerns. The Melanoma Fund has warned that Melanotan is linked to a higher risk of melanoma, a dangerous form of skin cancer. A case report published in Science Direct highlighted an instance of mucosal malignant melanoma potentially associated with Melanotan II.

Targeting Younger Consumers

Trading Standards officers have identified a concerning trend of flavoured nasal tanning sprays being sold on TikTok and Facebook. These products are available in flavours such as strawberry, lime, grape, bubblegum, peach, and redbull.

There is significant concern that these flavoured versions, along with tanning gummies and drops designed for ingestion, are being marketed specifically at children. The CTSI warned that this could lead to a youth epidemic similar to the rise of disposable vapes.

The popularity of these products is further driven by social media influencers. This trend occurs against a backdrop of high tanning rates among young adults; a 2024 survey indicated that 43% of 18-25 year olds continue to use sunbeds despite known health dangers.

Safe Alternatives for Tanning

Cancer Research UK advises that there is no such thing as safe UV tanning, and that both sunbeds and excessive sun exposure can cause skin cancer. For those seeking a tanned appearance, the organization recommends using fake tans from bottles or professional spray tans as safer alternatives.

Standard fake and spray tans typically use dihydroxyacetone (DHA), which reacts with the top layer of the skin to change its color. In 2020, the Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety found that cosmetic products containing DHA are not a health risk.

However, health experts emphasize that a fake tan does not provide protection against UV radiation. To prevent skin cancer, individuals should continue to use sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and 4 or 5 stars, wear protective clothing and hats, and seek shade when the sun is strong.

The self-tan market is projected to reach £746.3 million by 2027, according to the British Beauty Council, underscoring the importance of consumers purchasing products from reputable UK retailers that adhere to strict cosmetic ingredient rules.