New illegal tanning jab use on the rise

A new illegal tanning jab is gaining popularity in Britain, which could cause the misdiagnosis of skin cancer

A new illegal drug is taking root in Britain which can lead to the misdiagnosis of skin cancer, and turn suntan-seekers bright orange, experts warn. While some women are blessed with natural olive-looking skin, the annual Druglink Street Trends report reveals that others looking to emulate this look are turning to more drastic techniques, such as the new Melanotan craze.

The report suggests that Melanotan, which is injected daily and costs around £250 for a course, can be purchased over the internet or under the counter in selective health clubs.

The tanning jab works to trick the skin into creating melanin, which is the dark pigment needed for tanning. Portrayed as a ‘paradise’ substance, it not only makes you look darker, but is also thought to increase your libido.

However, drug workers believe this ‘jabbatan’ can not only leave people looking a severe orange shade, but also poses serious health risks.

Max Daly, author of report revealed: ‘One needle exchange worker in Cardiff said she was seeing lots of young men 'who look like they’ve been tango’d' coming into the exchange, while a Middlesborough drug worker added: 'Melanotan has become fashionable with some women who are naïve about the risks and lose any concept of how tanned they look.'

Medical experts say Melanotan can also lead to the shape and appearance of skin moles rapidly changing, which could cause skin cancer to be wrongly diagnosed or even missed, and trials in the US were halted amid concerns the drug was causing dangerous increases in blood pressure.

Have you ever considered getting a tanning jab? Let us know your thoughts in the comments box below!

CLICK HERE FOR MORE HEALTH NEWS