Health warning over 'dangerous' self-tan product after increase in ads

HPRA director of compliance Grainne Power with Melanotan 2 products seized over the past year. Picture: Fennells

The Health Products Regulatory Authority (HPRA) has warned of the serious, long-term dangers of a self-tanning product for which there has been a “large increase” in online ads.

The HPRA says Melanotan 2 can cause the development of new moles, darkening of existing moles and freckles, potential loss of vision, muscle tremors, stroke, and anaphylaxis. The warning comes amid an increase in online listings targeting younger people.