Australian Dermatologists Warn Melanotan-II Spurs 40 Moles, Raising Melanoma Risk
Updated
Updated · ABC News · Jun 4
Australian Dermatologists Warn Melanotan-II Spurs 40 Moles, Raising Melanoma Risk
3 articles · Updated · ABC News · Jun 4
Summary
Nearly 40 new moles appeared on one teenager’s back after he injected unregulated Melanotan-II, with dermatologists saying some were atypical enough to remove immediately and warning the added melanoma risk could last for life.
Melanotan-II is a synthetic tanning peptide not approved for human use or sale in Australia, and specialists told ABC they are seeing more patients with rapidly changing or abnormal moles as the drug resurges.
Doctors say social media is driving the trend, especially among teenagers and people in their early 20s, often portraying nausea, flushing and darkening moles as normal signs that the product is working.
The Therapeutic Goods Administration has called unregulated peptides a significant public health risk and requested 3,263 online ads for unapproved high-risk wellness and beauty products be removed.
Dermatologists and the Australasian College of Dermatologists are urging users to get skin checks and want tighter regulation plus greater accountability for influencers promoting the tanning peptide.
The 'Barbie drug' promises a quick tan, but what is the hidden, lifelong cancer risk doctors are now uncovering?
As doctors fight a 'peptide tsunami,' why are social media algorithms winning the battle for young people's health?
The Melanotan-II Epidemic: Rising Health Dangers and Regulatory Failures in Australia (2026)
Overview
Melanotan-II use in Australia is causing urgent concern due to severe and unpredictable health risks. Recent medical warnings highlight dangerous side effects, such as prolonged and painful erections, which underscore the immediate dangers for users. Melanotan-II disrupts the body’s natural pigmentation, leading to hidden risks like abnormal moles and increased cancer risk. The crisis is made worse by unregulated online sales and social media influencers promoting the drug, making it hard for authorities to control. This situation highlights the need for public education, safer alternatives, and stronger regulatory action to protect community health.