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Are you perhaps tempted by nasal tanners trending across digital platforms? If yes, then you must have a look at this publication and rethink your pursuit of beauty standards.
Nasal tanners, as the name suggests, are basically nasal sprays, with the core ingredient being the synthetic peptide Melanotan II, to stimulate skin pigmentation. This is an unregulated, self-administered regimen that isn’t just ineffective long-term, but also compromises your health, with high potential to lead to overdose, organ damage, and even cancer.
Drawn from many trusted sources like medical journals, health agencies, and recently documented case reports, this article dissects the online dosing protocols shared by users.
How do nasal tanners work?
The primary compound present in nasal tanners replicates the alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH), which binds to melanocortin receptors to boost melanin production and darken the skin. In comparison to other legitimate and safe topical self-tanners containing dihydroxyacetone (DHA), nasal tanners push the artificial peptide directly into the bloodstream through nasal membranes, bypassing natural regulatory processes.
Due to its harmful consequences and disapproval of the FDA and TGA, they’re banned for sale in countries like the U.S., UK, and Australia. Instead, this led to it proliferating online from shady vendors.
Deconstructing the online protocol: “Loading” and “Maintenance”
As per online directives from users, nasal tanners are administered in two phases: a loading phase and a maintenance phase.
1. Loading phase
This initial phase is supposed to aggressively promote the melanin levels for a quick, visible tan. It involves a high-dose buildup over 7-14 days, starting from low to “test tolerance” before escalating. Since nasal tanners typically come in 10-20mg/ml concentrations, the protocol to spray is adaptable.
Here’s a breakdown of common steps shared online:
- Days 1-3: 1 spray per nostril (approximately 0.25-0.5mg Melanotan II) once daily.
- Days 4-7: 1-2 sprays per nostril twice daily (up to 1mg per day), morning and night doses for steady absorption.
- Days 8-14: Maintain or increase to 2 sprays per nostril twice daily (1-2mg), continue until the desired tan emerges, with minimal UV exposure for enhancement, if needed.
- Preparation tips: Reconstitute powders with sterile water if needed, shake the bottle, and refrigerate, though contamination risks remain.
The sole purpose of this phase is to saturate receptors for quick results, but it actually leads to unpredictable spikes.
2. Maintenance phase
The “maintenance phase” kicks in to sustain the tan with lower, intermittent doses. Many online advice suggests dropping to:
- Weekly dosing: 1 spray per nostril (0.25-0.5mg) 1-2 times per week.
- As-needed dosing: If tan starts fading, increase dosing slightly, but avoid daily use to prevent tolerance buildup.
- Duration: For lasting results, continue doing it. Many users claim to have effects lasting for weeks without re-dosing, although it depends on individual metabolism.
These protocols are, however, guesswork, not science-backed, and nasal delivery can be inconsistent, leading to under- or overdosing.
What exactly are users inflicting on their bodies?
Melanotan II triggers multiple melanocortin receptors (MC1R to MC5R), which affect more than just skin. During the loading phase, this surge is followed by:
- Pigmentation boost: Increased melanin production in melanocytes, which darkens skin, hair, and even eyes over days.
- Systemic effects:
- MC4R suppresses appetite, which aids weight loss but risks malnutrition.
- Heightened libido and spontaneous erections in men due to central nervous system stimulation.
- Immediate effects: Facial flushing, yawning, and fatigue due to blood vessels dilating and hormones fluctuating.
- Hormonal imbalance: Overstimulation targets sympathetic responses, elevating heart rate and blood pressure.
During the latter phase, these effects slow down but accumulate, potentially causing chronic issues like altered mole growth.
While the dangers of this unregulated process are not defined, the risks of overdosing are high. These can lead to severe nausea, vomiting, hypertension, and even rhabdomyolysis. Medical literature often associates Melanotan II with renal infarction, where blood clots block kidney arteries, as in a case of systemic toxicity. Australia’s TGA reports highlighted increased appearance of moles, freckles, brain swelling, and skin cancers from melanotans. During 2023-24, they have also taken down over 4,800 unlawful ads related to tanning.
What’s more, long-term use of nasal tanners may accelerate melanoma by altering melanocytes, making it harder to detect due to unnatural pigmentation. Inconsistent potencies, contaminants, and a lack of quality control amplify the products’ toxicity. It’s like cancer in a bottle.
Why is this self-administration so hazardous?
Without medical supervision, there’s no recourse for any harm caused. Nasal absorption is erratic, and high loading doses can overwhelm the system, causing irreversible damage. Due to unknown risks, regulatory bodies like the TGA and FDA strongly advise against the use of melanotans for cosmetic procedures.
Instead of risking nasal tanners, choose proven, safe alternatives:
- Topical self-tanners: Have DHA or erythrulose that delivers a streak-free glow without artificial hormones.
- Bronzing makeup: Temporary options like powders or lotions for instant color.
- Professional spray tans: Expert salon services using safe ingredients, avoiding inhalation risks.
- Sun protection: Love your natural skin and use broad-spectrum SPF to prevent UV damage.
- Diet and supplements: Consume foods rich in beta-carotene (carrots, sweet potatoes) for a subtle tint, but under a doctor’s guidance.
Whatever you may find after scouring the online forums, nasal tanners, in the end, are deadly harmful. A beauty breakthrough with an untested product is fraught with overdose potential and life-altering consequences. Do not compromise, and prioritize your health over trends. Consult a dermatologist if needed, but stay away from shortcuts.