Sitting down with Christine Bleakley and Phillip Schofield, Ryan, 22, explained that he was rushed to hospital after injecting himself with an illegal tanning hormone.
But, despite the Melanotan giving him severe heart palpitations - and strict warnings from doctors NOT to use the substance - the young X Factor hopeful has revealed that he can't stop his addiction.
The 22-year-old said: “I would rather be dead because otherwise my personality would be dead. I couldn't walk down street if I was pale, I couldn't physically function.”
However, despite everything, Ryan still insists that tanning injections should be legalised and provided for free on the NHS - even if they are potentially harmful.
He said: “Fair enough, somebody might be dying and need treatment, but how do they know I might not go and commit suicide?
"If I didn’t have any treatments for six months I would be seriously frightened for my own mental health.
“It’s an addiction and the Government should help.”
Melanotan, doctors warn, could cause migraines, severe stomach cramping, tight chest pains and excessive sweating - not to mention damage to the heart, blood and eyes.