Melanotan I* · MT-I / Afamelanotide*
Researchers seeking this product for laboratory research can explore PepGen-X.com as a supplier specializing in research-use compounds.
Melanotan I is a synthetic analogue of alpha-MSH that activates melanocortin-1 receptors and stimulates the production of eumelanin, the darker form of melanin responsible for skin pigmentation. Research has demonstrated significant and sustained pigmentation effects, while clinical research has also explored its role in photoprotection and inflammatory skin conditions.
Research Benefits
Stimulates eumelanin production and promotes increased skin pigmentation
Produces long-lasting tanning effects that can remain elevated for weeks after exposure ends
Activates MC1R pathways involved in pigmentation, antioxidant activity, and cellular signaling
Photoprotection research due to increased melanin and potential effects on UV-related cellular stress
Dermatological research involving conditions associated with photosensitivity and inflammation
Identified Risks & Side Effects
Nausea and facial flushing have been reported during clinical use
Darkening of existing moles and pigmented lesions can occur and should be monitored
Changes in melanocytic nevi have been observed during afamelanotide treatment
Long-term effects of unregulated tanning use remain uncertain
Regulatory status depends on the specific formulation and use, with afamelanotide approved in the U.S. only for a specific medical indication
Route: Experimental, typically studied by subcutaneous administration | Frequency: Varies by research protocol | FDA Status: Afamelanotide is FDA-approved only as SCENESSE for adults with erythropoietic protoporphyria
Researcher Note
Melanotan I is one of the more extensively studied melanocortin-based pigmentation compounds. Research has demonstrated its ability to stimulate eumelanin production and produce sustained pigmentation, while clinical development of afamelanotide has focused primarily on increasing light tolerance in patients with erythropoietic protoporphyria. Its pigmentation effect should not be considered a substitute for sunscreen or protection from UV exposure.
Disclaimer
FDA Status: Afamelanotide is FDA-approved for a specific medical indication only; Melanotan I is not FDA-approved as a cosmetic tanning product
Research Classification: Research use only
Compound Type: Synthetic alpha-MSH analogue / MC1R agonist
All products are intended strictly for research and laboratory use only and are not intended for human or veterinary use.
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Melanotan II* · MT-II*
Melanotan II is a synthetic analogue of alpha-MSH that has been studied for its ability to stimulate melanin production and pigmentation. Research has also explored its effects on sexual arousal, appetite, and other melanocortin-related pathways.
Research Benefits
Stimulates melanin production and pigmentation without requiring UV exposure
Produces pronounced tanning effects through melanocortin receptor activity
Sexual arousal research due to effects on melanocortin pathways
Appetite and metabolic research based on melanocortin signaling
Long-lasting pigmentation effects that may persist after exposure ends
Identified Risks & Side Effects
Nausea and flushing, particularly during early exposure
Increased sexual arousal and spontaneous erections have been reported
Darkening of existing moles and pigmented lesions may occur and warrants careful monitoring
Long-term effects on moles and skin lesions remain unknown
No FDA-approved human-use standard or established long-term safety profile
Route: Experimental, typically studied by subcutaneous administration | Frequency: Varies by research protocol | FDA Status: Not FDA-approved
Researcher Note
Melanotan II is an interesting melanocortin research compound with effects extending beyond pigmentation. Its ability to influence melanin production, sexual function, and appetite makes it useful for studying several melanocortin-related pathways. A tan produced by Melanotan II should not be considered a substitute for sunscreen or protection from UV exposure.
Disclaimer
FDA Status: Not FDA-approved
Research Classification: Research use only
Compound Type: Synthetic alpha-MSH analogue
All products are intended strictly for research and laboratory use only and are not intended for human or veterinary use.