Some White people are going to extreme lengths to alter their skin color in an effort to look and feel Black, reportedly resorting to melanin injections to achieve a darker complexion.
These individuals are using “Melanotan,” an illegal and unregulated drug promoted as a quick fix for tanning. However, experts have warned about the serious health risks associated with its use.
Beyond just changing their skin color, these individuals also express a desire to “feel Black,” a trend that has sparked significant cultural and ethical debates.
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Melanotan, as explained by WebMD, is a synthetic chemical similar to a hormone naturally found in the body. Originally developed to treat specific skin conditions, it is now widely sold online as a supplement.
Despite its common use for skin tanning, erectile dysfunction, and other conditions, there is little scientific evidence to support these uses. Moreover, the safety of injecting Melanotan under the skin is highly questionable.
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The drug has been banned in several countries, including the UK and Australia. Nonetheless, it continues to be available through social media influencers and lesser-known beauty salons.
The rising use of Melanotan among some white people reflects a desire not only to alter their appearance but also to adopt aspects of Black identity. This trend has raised concerns about cultural appropriation, highlighting the contradiction between the glorification of Black aesthetics and the neglect of pressing issues facing Black communities.
Health Risks and Side Effects
Experts warn that using melanotan injections carries severe health risks, including nausea, kidney damage, and an increased likelihood of developing skin cancer.
One of the most alarming dangers is the potential for melanoma, a deadly form of skin cancer. Dr. Emma Wedgeworth, a consultant dermatologist, explains that users are also at risk of infections and abscesses due to the unregulated manufacturing process and unsafe injection practices associated with Melanotan.
A recent case highlights these dangers: a 27-year-old woman reportedly developed stage-one melanoma after just two months of using Melanotan II.
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Since the drug is not regulated, many users are unaware of the serious risks they are taking. Testing of some Melanotan samples revealed up to 6% impurities, further compounding the danger.
Dermatologists and health experts strongly advise against using Melanotan, suggesting safer alternatives instead. “The only safe way to achieve a tan is through self-tanning products, which provide the desired look without the health risks,” they say.
Dr. Wedgeworth also cautioned, “While you may be pleased with the temporary effect, you could be exposing yourself to long-term health problems.”
