What is Melanotan and how does it work?

Melanotan is a synthetic hormone that works by increasing the levels of melanin, a natural dark pigment in the skin. Melanin causes the skin to darken or tan. It provides a small amount of protection against sun exposure. There are two types of Melanotan - Melanotan I and Melanotan II.

It is currently illegal to sell tan injections such as Melanotan. This is because this product is unlicensed as it has not been safety tested so we do not know if this drug has any side effects or how serious they could be.

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Why is it illegal?

Melanotan is illegal in the UK because:

  • It has not been tested for safety, quality or effectiveness.
  • No one knows what the possible side effects are or how serious they could be.

The MHRA (Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency) tests medical products in the UK. They are warning people not to use Melanotan and they say that the product is being "advertised and sold illegally".

David Carter, from the MHRA said:

"We are warning people not to use this product. Don't be fooled into thinking that Melanotan offers a shortcut to a safer and more even tan. The safety of these products is unknown and they are unlicensed in the UK. The side effects could be extremely serious. If you have used either of these products do not use them again and if you have any concerns you should seek advice from your doctor."

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What are the risks?

As well as the possible side effects, which we don't know about, people have to inject Melanotan . If they share needles, they could spread diseases such as HIV and Hepatitis. There may also be a risk of harm to the injected area or even injury if the injections are carried out by unqualified individuals.

It has also been reported that some people have seen moles or freckles change colour when using Melanotan. Changes in the size shape or colour of a mole or patch of skin can sometimes be a sign of skin cancer. There is a concern that Melanotan could lead to incorrect diagnoses, false alarms or unnecessary operations.

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What should I do if I’ve used Melanotan?

You should stop using Melanotan and go and see your GP if you think that you may be at risk from using or sharing needles or are showing any unusual side-effects.

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Is there a safer way to getting a tan?

If you really want to change the colour of your skin, it's safer to use a fake tan product on your skin than tan out in the sun or under a sunbed.

It's important to remember that fake tans only provide a small measure of protection against UV radiation. You can't rely on them to protect your skin against heavy doses of UV or to reduce the risk of skin cancer. Even if you have a tan, you can still burn and still increase your risk.

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Advice and prevention

Cancer Research UK offers the following advice to help you stay safe in the sun:

  • Spend time in the shade between 11am-3pm
  • Make sure you never burn
  • Cover up with loose clothing, hat and sunglasses
  • Use factor 15+ "broad-spectrum" sunscreens with a rating of four stars or more and ensure you apply regularly and generously
  • Always remember to take extra care with children
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