Melanotan I 10mg

What is Melanotan I?

Melanotan I, also known as afamelanotide, is a synthetic peptide developed as a stable analogue of α-MSH (melanocyte-stimulating hormone), which regulates the production of melanin in the skin.

Its main function is to activate the melanocortin receptor MC1R, which controls melanin synthesis in melanocytes. This leads to a gradual and even increase in pigmentation when exposed to UV light.

Unlike Melanotan II, Melanotan I is highly selective – it acts almost entirely on receptors associated with the skin, without significantly affecting the central nervous system. This makes its effects more predictable and more controlled.

The melanin stimulated through this mechanism not only gives skin its colour, but also plays a key role in protecting against UV damage by absorbing and dispersing ultraviolet radiation.

The pharmaceutical form of this peptide, afamelanotide, has been approved in the European Union under the name Scenesse and is used in patients with increased sensitivity to sunlight, demonstrating its real clinical significance in dermatology.

What are the benefits of Melanotan I?

Melanotan I is directed mainly towards the skin and photoprotection, which makes it more specific compared to other peptides in this group.

• More even and controlled pigmentation

It stimulates melanin via a physiological pathway, resulting in a more natural tan without sudden changes.

• Better protection against UV radiation

Increased melanin levels support the skin’s natural protection against sun damage.

• Suitable for sun-sensitive skin

It is being studied in conditions with increased photosensitivity, where the skin reacts more strongly to UV light.

• Lower risk of systemic effects

Due to its selective action on the MC1 receptor, pronounced effects on appetite or libido are not observed.

• More predictable result

The effect builds up gradually, allowing better control over the final result.

Clinical trials on Melanotan I

Melanotan I is one of the few peptides in this category with real clinical application.

Clinical studies show that the peptide stimulates melanin production and improves tolerance to sunlight under controlled conditions.

The pharmaceutical form of afamelanotide has been investigated in patients with photosensitive conditions, and the results show increased protection against UV radiation and improved tolerance to sun exposure.

These data position it as a peptide with real clinical value, not just as a research molecule.

Correct intake and dosage of Melanotan I within a research protocol

Melanotan I is administered via a subcutaneous injection.

In research protocols, doses in the range of 300 to 800 mcg per application are typically used, with the most common frequency being 2–3 times per week.

A typical protocol includes 300 to 500 mcg subcutaneously several times per week for a period of 4 to 6 weeks, with the effect building up gradually.

Once the desired result is reached, you can move to a maintenance phase with less frequent administration.

Gradual build-up is key, as Melanotan I does not produce a sudden effect; it builds pigmentation over time.

Possible side effects of Melanotan I

Melanotan I has a milder tolerability profile compared to other peptides from the same group. The most commonly reported are mild nausea, redness, or temporary fatigue, especially at the beginning of use. In rare cases, headache, dizziness, or mild discomfort at the injection site may occur.

Because of its more selective action, side effects are usually less pronounced compared to Melanotan II.

Comparison of Melanotan I with other peptides

Melanotan I belongs to the group of melanocortin peptides that act via melanocortin receptors (MC1R, MC3R, MC4R, etc.). The main difference between individual representatives is their selectivity for these receptors and, accordingly, the scope of their effect.

Compared with Melanotan II, Melanotan I is significantly more selective and acts almost entirely on the MC1 receptor, which is responsible for skin pigmentation. This results in a smoother, controlled and more predictable darkening, without a substantial impact on the central nervous system. In contrast, Melanotan II also activates central receptors such as MC3 and MC4, which explains its faster effect, but also the presence of additional actions such as effects on libido and appetite.

When compared with PT-141 (Bremelanotide), the difference is even clearer. Melanotan I practically has no effect on sexual function, as it does not target the receptors associated with it. PT-141 was developed precisely with this focus and acts selectively on the central nervous system, which makes it a specialised peptide for libido and sexual arousal.

The information on this website is collected and summarised from multiple scientific studies and analyses.

It is purely for informational purposes and is not intended for diagnosing, treating or preventing diseases.

The products offered on the site are not classified as medicines or medical devices and are suitable only for laboratory and research purposes.