Melanotan II an overview ScienceDirect Topics Viral 'Barbie drug' for tanning can cause brain swelling and even cancer, experts warn Melanotan is trending again. As a dermatologist, I strongly need to tell you , Its an unapproved injectable peptide, and were seeing:, nausea and flushing, darkening of existing moles, Afamelanotide tested as a new treatment for vitiligo Vitiligo Clinic 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.