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Melanotan I

Also known as: MT-1, Afamelanotide, Scenesse

The Photoprotective Tanning Peptide

FDA-approved (as Scenesse) for EPP patients, this melanocortin peptide stimulates natural melanin production for tanning and UV protection without sun exposure.

Approved (Some Countries)✨ Skin & Anti-Aging 👃 Nasal Sprays👃 Also available as nasal spray

How It Works

Simple Explanation

Activates melanocortin receptors in skin cells to produce more melanin, your body's natural sunscreen pigment.

Technical Details

Synthetic alpha-MSH analog with high selectivity for MC1R. Stimulates melanogenesis in melanocytes, increasing eumelanin production for photoprotection.

Pharmacokinetics & Storage

Half-Life

~30 minutes

Duration in circulation

Storage Requirements

Before use: Store lyophilized at -4°F to 39°F (-20°C to 4°C)

After reconstitution: Use within 4 weeks when refrigerated

Protect from light. Reconstitute with bacteriostatic water.

Benefits

Natural-looking tan without UV exposure
Increased UV protection
FDA-approved for EPP (erythropoietic protoporphyria)
Longer-lasting tan than sun exposure
May reduce skin cancer risk in high-risk individuals

Potential Side Effects

Nausea

Common initially

Usually subsides with continued use

mild

Facial flushing

Common

mild

Fatigue

Occasional

mild

Mole darkening

Common

Monitor moles for changes

mild

Research Highlights

EPP Treatment (2015)

Significantly increased pain-free sun exposure time in EPP patients

View Study

Photoprotection (2009)

Reduced UV-induced DNA damage in skin cells

View Study

Vitiligo Combination Therapy (2023)

Improved repigmentation when combined with narrowband UVB therapy in vitiligo patients

View Study

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between Melanotan I and II?

MT-1 is more selective for tanning receptors with fewer side effects. MT-2 also affects libido and appetite but has more side effects.

Do I still need sun exposure?

Some UV exposure can enhance and speed up results, but MT-1 can produce tanning even without sun.

Is Melanotan I legal?

It's FDA-approved as Scenesse for EPP. Research peptide versions exist in a gray area depending on jurisdiction.

Who Is It For

EPP patients (FDA-approved use)
Those seeking tan without UV damage
Very fair-skinned individuals
Those at high risk for UV damage

Who Should Avoid

History of melanoma or skin cancer
Many atypical moles
Pregnant/nursing
Liver disease

Research Dosing Protocols

Common Research Protocol

Implant: 16mg every 2 months (Scenesse). Research: 0.5-1mg injection

Administration Frequency (per studies)

Implant every 60 days, or injection protocols vary

Delivery Methods

subcutaneousnasal

👃 This peptide is also available in nasal spray form from select suppliers.

Available Forms

• Subcutaneous implant (FDA-approved)
• Subcutaneous injection (research)
• Nasal spray (research)

💡 Some UV exposure enhances results but is not required

⚠️ Not Medical Advice: Dosing information is compiled from published research and clinical studies for educational purposes only. This is not a recommendation. All peptide research should be conducted by qualified professionals in controlled research environments. Consult a healthcare provider before considering any protocol.

Where to Buy

Looking for quality Melanotan I? Check our vetted suppliers.

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Related Peptides

🌅Melanotan II

Potent melanocortin peptide that produces tanning, increases libido, and reduces appetite. More side effects than MT-1 but stronger multi-system effects.

⚠️ Important Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Many peptides discussed are research compounds not approved for human use by the FDA. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before starting any peptide protocol. PepGains does not sell peptides and is not responsible for how this information is used. All timeline and efficacy information is based on published research and clinical trials - individual results may vary significantly.