Latest news with #EdithEagle
New York Post
16-05-2025
- Health
- New York Post
Viral ‘Barbie drug' that can help you tan can cause brain swelling, erection problems and even cancer, experts warn
Talk about a toxic tan. Nicknamed the 'Barbie drug,' a viral nose spray that promises to give users the perfect glow may deliver life-threatening complications. The drug, Melanotan-II, is an unlicensed and largely untested synthetic version of the peptide α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone. As the name implies, the hormone is responsible for melanin production, and devotees of the 'Barbie drug' claim it can give users a perfect tan from the inside out. Advertisement But the promise of a bronze glow comes with a decided dark side as Melanotan-II has been linked to a slew of side effects ranging from nausea to cancer. 4 A study published last year found that TikTok has been driving unlicensed Melanotan-II sales. TikTok / @drwhitneybowe Sold in nasal spray form, the product is often marketed with Barbie-inspired designs, pink packaging, and stamped with a seemingly official 'Barbie' logo. Despite the dire complications, influencers have been hawking it to their followers as a quick and easy way to tan. Advertisement 'People always want to be tan, especially during the summer,' Dr. Jennifer Levine, a board-certified facial plastic surgeon, told The Post. 'The Barbie movie has also added to the 'beach' trend.' Melanotan II is not approved by the FDA, meaning the product is not held to the agency's standards and could include variability in dose, undeclared ingredients, and potential microbial contamination. Warnings against the use of melanotan II have been issued by the US, UK, Australia, and several other countries. Advertisement However, those warnings have not stopped black market suppliers of Melanotan-II from producing and distributing the drug in injectable, tablet, cream, and nasal spray form. The possibility of peril has clearly failed to discourage social media influencers, as a study published last year found that social media has been driving unlicensed Melanotan-II sales. 4 Bottles are being marketed with pink packaging, pictures of Barbie dolls and a logo copied from the film. Advertisement In response, TikTok has banned the hashtags #tanningnasalspray, #melanotan and #melanotan2, but these products continue to be promoted with more generic hashtags, such as #tanning. Influencers rarely mention the side effects that accompany melanotan II. These include changes in the size and pigmentation of moles, rapid appearance of new moles, facial flushing, abdominal cramps, nausea, vomiting, chest pain, and brain swelling. Unaware that the produce was unlicensed and unregulated, Edith Eagle purchased and used nasal tanners ahead of a planned vacation to the Canary Islands. On the second day of her holiday, she was rushed to the hospital with an allergic reaction she compared to 'suffocating inside' and 'drowning' within her own body. 4 Melanotan II is not approved by the FDA, meaning the product is not held to the agency's standards and could include variability in dose, undeclared ingredients, and potential microbial contamination. In light of her hellish experience, she told the BBC she hopes governments will adopt 'a zero tolerance approach' to melanotan II. Melanotan II can also cause rhabdomyolysis, also called 'rhabdo,' a condition characterized by the breakdown of muscle tissue, which releases a toxin into the bloodstream and can cause kidney failure. Advertisement In men, the 'Barbie drug' can cause priapism or an erection that lasts more than four hours and is not related to sexual activity and can cause damage to the penis. In effect, anti Ken-ergy. Ironically, while Melanotan II is often marketed as a tool for preventing skin cancer, its use has been linked to the development of melanoma in existing moles. Experts believe this is caused by stimulated pigment cells triggering the proliferation of abnormal cells. 4 Edith Eagle compared her allergic reaction to 'Barbie drug' to 'suffocating inside' and 'drowning' within her own body. Courtesy Edith Eagle Advertisement In addition, melanotan II usage is often accompanied by risky behavior such as tanning beds and/or unprotected sun exposure. Indeed, many TikTokkers say they snort the substances before heading to a solarium, as ingredients in the sprays allegedly help increase the effectiveness of tanning beds. The emergence of nasal spray tans comes as rates of melanoma have rapidly increased in recent years, according to the American Cancer Society. Advertisement Melanoma is the deadliest form of skin cancer, sending about 8,000 Americans to the grave each year At present, there are no studies on the long-term safety or efficacy of melanotan-II use. What's more, melanotan-II's promise of year-round golden skin is a fallacy, as the achieved 'tan' is not permanent and disappears when product use is discontinued. Advertisement As we edge towards summer and the pressure to prevent paleness mounts, experts agree there are plenty of safe, and street legal ways to get your glow on, including self-tanners and body-makeup.
Daily Record
16-05-2025
- Health
- Daily Record
Warning over 'dangerous' nasal tanning sprays sold on social media - what are the risks?
One woman was in hospital "unable to breathe" after suffering a severe reaction to an unlicensed nasal tanning spray she bought online 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. Join the Daily Record WhatsApp community! Get the latest news sent straight to your messages by joining our WhatsApp community today. You'll receive daily updates on breaking news as well as the top headlines across Scotland. No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the Daily Record team. All you have to do is click here if you're on mobile, select 'Join Community' and you're in! If you're on a desktop, simply scan the QR code above with your phone and click 'Join Community'. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose 'exit group'. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice. "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."
Irish Independent
16-05-2025
- Health
- Irish Independent
Public warned to avoid ‘dangerous' nasal tanning sprays going viral on TikTok
The 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. 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 Richard Knight, CTSI 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. The HSE and the HPRA have previously issued warnings over use of the so- called 'barbie drug'. 'The Health Products Regulatory Authority (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. "Often described as a self-tanning aid, the product is also referred to as Melanotan, Melanotan II or MT2. It is commonly sold as an injectable powder or in the form of drops and nasal sprays. '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,' the HPRA said in a previous statement on the risks of the chemical. While the long-term health impacts of using the sprays were not yet known, 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. The CTSI also flagged an emerging trend for flavoured nasal tanning sprays, drops and gummies, with 'unscrupulous' sellers on Facebook and TikTok posting pictures of the products available in child-friendly flavours such as peach, bubblegum, grape, strawberry and lime. The CTSI said it feared they could become the latest 'must have' products 'leading to a youth epidemic as we saw with disposable vapes'. Nasal tanning sprays are growing in popularity thanks to their promotion by influencers and the products being widely available online. 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 CTSI has urged the public to avoid any type of tanning products that are ingested or inhaled and instead use safer options such as creams and sprays bought from reputable retailers. Richard Knight, CTSI lead officer for cosmetics and beauty, said: 'Edith's story is a sobering one, and an example of what can happen when putting unregulated products into our bodies. '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.' Susanna Daniels, chief executive of Melanoma Focus, said: 'We're becoming increasingly concerned about the use of both nasal tanning sprays and tanning injections and their potential links with melanoma skin cancer. 'These unregulated and illegal products not only pose serious health risks but also encourage harmful behaviours, particularly among young consumers. 'We urge the public to consider the long-term impacts on their health and avoid using these substances altogether.' Sunbed Association chairman Gary Lipman said: 'Nasal sprays have absolutely no place in a professional tanning salon. 'We fully support CTSI's campaign to heighten awareness of the dangers of using them. The end goal must be to eradicate access to these illegal and unregulated products.'
Wales Online
16-05-2025
- Health
- Wales Online
Warning over tanning treatment linked to cancer - and it's not sunbeds
Warning over tanning treatment linked to cancer - and it's not sunbeds Experts say 'no-one can truly know the risks of using these quasi-medical potions' A doctor examining the moles of a patient with a magnifying glass 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. The 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. While the long-term health impacts of using the sprays were not yet known, 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. The CTSI also flagged an emerging trend for flavoured nasal tanning sprays, drops and gummies, with 'unscrupulous' sellers on Facebook and TikTok posting pictures of the products available in child-friendly flavours such as peach, bubblegum, grape, strawberry and lime. The CTSI said it feared they could become the latest 'must have' products 'leading to a youth epidemic as we saw with disposable vapes'. Nasal tanning sprays are growing in popularity thanks to their promotion by influencers and the products being widely available online. According to British Beauty Council, the self-tan market is set to hit £746.3 million by 2027. 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. Article continues below 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 CTSI has urged the public to avoid any type of tanning products that are ingested or inhaled and instead use safer options such as creams and sprays bought from reputable retailers. Richard Knight, CTSI lead officer for cosmetics and beauty, said: 'Edith's story is a sobering one, and an example of what can happen when putting unregulated products into our bodies. '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.' Susanna Daniels, chief executive of Melanoma Focus, said: 'We're becoming increasingly concerned about the use of both nasal tanning sprays and tanning injections and their potential links with melanoma skin cancer. These unregulated and illegal products not only pose serious health risks but also encourage harmful behaviours, particularly among young consumers. 'We urge the public to consider the long-term impacts on their health and avoid using these substances altogether.' Sunbed Association chairman Gary Lipman said: 'Nasal sprays have absolutely no place in a professional tanning salon. We fully support CTSI's campaign to heighten awareness of the dangers of using them. The end goal must be to eradicate access to these illegal and unregulated products.' Article continues below Consumers can report any suspicious cosmetic product or adverse reaction to Trading Standards immediately by calling the free Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline on 0808 223 1133. Consumers in Scotland can contact Consumer Advice Scotland on 0808 164 6000, or Consumerline in Northern Ireland on 0300 123 6262. A recent survey of Trading Standards officers found that unsafe cosmetic products were the biggest emerging threat to UK consumers. CTSI has launched its latest '#CostofBeauty' campaign, which raises awareness about the safety issues associated with three key cosmetics – nail glue, 'professional use' lash lift and tint kits, and the nasal tanning sprays.
Yahoo
16-05-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Nasal tanning sprays linked to skin cancer, trading standards officers warn
Nasal tanning sprays linked to cancer and respiratory problems and other unsafe cosmetic products pose one of the biggest threats to consumers, trading standards officers have warned. Demand for these 'dangerous and unregulated' tan-enhancing sprays, which is being driven by influencers on social media, could mirror the rapid rise of youth vaping, the Chartered Trading Standards Institute (CTSI) said. The sprays contain substances such as melanotan 2 – a synthetic hormone not approved for use in the UK – which can cause nausea, vomiting, high blood pressure, kidney problems, and an increased risk of melanoma skin cancer. The sprays are designed to be applied to the nostrils, where they deliver melanotan 2 directly into the body. This chemical stimulates the production of melanin, which darkens the skin, and while it can supposedly work without UV exposure, its effects are enhanced when used alongside sun exposure or tanning sun beds. Trading standards officers also raised concerns over the rise of flavoured nasal tanning sprays, which include peach, bubble gum and lime, which may make them more attractive to young people. The self-tan market was valued at £582.2m and is projected to grow to £746.3m by 2027, according to THG Labs' Sunless Tanning Trend Report, raising concerns that nasal tanning sprays could capitalise on this booming demand, despite the health risks. Videos on social media show tanned users promoting the products. The CTSI said many of these 'unscrupulous sellers' are also marketing tanning drops and tanning gummies, designed to be ingested. Richard Knight, the lead officer for cosmetics and beauty at CTSI, urged consumers to question the claims made by influencers online, warning that many may not fully understand the risks themselves. He 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.' Although it is illegal to sell medicinal products containing melanotan 2 in the UK, the tanners are marketed as cosmetics, meaning they fall outside the regulatory remit. The products, which often have no ingredients list, are usually sold for about £20 each, with 'extreme flavoured nasals' marketed at £30 each and cheaper alternatives for as little as £25 for two. Users have reported severe allergic reactions to the products, and there have been cases of hospitalisation. Edith Eagle, from King's Lynn in Norfolk, was admitted to hospital after she suffered a serious reaction to a nasal tanning spray she bought online. She bought the product hoping that they would give her a quick and easy sun-kissed look ahead of her holiday in April 2023, but told the BBC she felt as if she was 'suffocating' and 'drowning inside her own body'. Knight said Eagle's story should be a cautionary tale of 'what can happen when putting unregulated products into our bodies'. Susanna Daniels, the chief executive of Melanoma Focus, said: 'We're becoming increasingly concerned about the use of both nasal tanning sprays and tanning injections and their potential links with melanoma skin cancer. 'These unregulated and illegal products not only pose serious health risks but also encourage harmful behaviours, particularly among young consumers. We urge the public to consider the long-term impacts on their health and avoid using these substances altogether.' The CTSI advised consumers to opt for safer self-tanning options, like lotions or sprays applied to the skin, which are regulated under the UK Cosmetics Regulation and come with clear user guidelines. Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
