Is this injectable tanning drug safe to use? Viral 'Barbie drug' for tanning can cause brain swelling and even cancer, experts warn Don't risk using tanning products containing melanotan Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) Melanotan: A tanning peptide that stimulates melanin production. Used for UV protection and even skin tone, it may offer benefits like reduced sun damage risk and appetite suppression, helping patients achieve a Avoid nasal tanning sprays or nasal tanners entirely. These products promise an all over tan without sun exposure but they are unregulated, can be unsafe, and contain potentially risky substances like Melanotan 2.