Trade Standards officials warn that nasal tanning sprays are linked to cancer and respiratory problems, and other unsafe cosmetics pose one of the biggest threats to consumers.

The Chartered Transaction Standards Institute (CTSI) said the “dangerous and unregulated” tanning sprays driven by these affected people may reflect the rapid rise of youth.

These sprays contain substances such as Melanotan 2 - a synthetic hormone that is not approved for use in the UK - which can cause nausea, vomiting, high blood pressure, kidney problems and an increased risk of skin cancer in melanoma.

Sprays are designed for the nostrils, where they deliver Black 2 directly into the body. This chemical stimulates the production of melanin, which darkens the skin, and while it is said to work without UV exposure, it enhances its effect when used with sun or tanned sun beds.

Trade Standards officials have also raised concerns about the rise of nose tanning sprays, including peaches, bubble gum and lime, which may make them more attractive to young people.

According to a report by THG Labs’ Sun-free Tanning Trend, the value of the tan market is £582.2 million and is expected to grow to £746.3 million by 2027, raising concerns that despite the health risks, there are concerns that nose tanning may take advantage of this booming demand.

Videos on social media show users who tanned the product. CTSI says many "immoral sellers" are also marketing tanned drops and tanned gummy, designed to be ingested.

Richard Knight, chief official of CTSI cosmetics and beauty, urged consumers to question the claims of online influencers, warning many people may not fully understand the risk itself.

"Unlike cosmetics, nose tanning sprays are unlikely to undergo expert safety assessments and use relevant health warnings and instructions for safe use. This means that no one, including influencers, can really know the risks of using these quasi-medical potions," he said.

Although it is illegal to sell medicines containing Melanotan 2 in the UK, tanners are sold in the form of cosmetics, meaning they are out of regulation.

These products usually don't have an ingredient list, usually around £20 per person, "Extreme Flavored Nasal" is priced at £30, a cheaper alternative, with prices as low as £25 for two.

Users reported severe allergic reactions to the product and had hospitalized cases.

Edith Eagle of King's Lynn of Norfolk was taken to the hospital after a severe reaction to the nose tan spray she bought online.

She bought the product in hopes they would give her a quick, relaxed sunlight before the April 2023 holiday, but told the BBC that she felt as if she was "suffocating" and "drowned inside her body".

Knight said the Eagle’s story should be a cautionary tale: “What happens when putting unregulated products into our bodies.”

"We are increasingly focused on the use of nose tan sprays and tan injections and their potential links to melanoma skin cancer," said Susanna Daniels, CEO of Melanoma Focus.

“These unregulated illegal products pose not only serious health risks, but also promote harmful behavior, especially among young consumers. We urge the public to consider the long-term impact on their health and avoid using these substances completely.”

CTSI recommends consumers to choose safer self-tanning options, such as lotions or sprays for skin, which are regulated by UK cosmetic regulations and come with clear user guidelines.