Reference entry
Melanotan I (MT-I)
Melanocortin Receptor Agonist
Overview
Synthetic analog of α-MSH that selectively targets MC1 receptors for melanin stimulation. FDA-approved as SCENESSE implant for erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP). Research-grade injectable form enables flexible dosing versus the implant version.
Subcutaneous injection delivers peptide directly into systemic circulation. Selectively activates MC1R receptors to stimulate melanin production. Short half-life of approximately 30 minutes necessitates multiple daily dosing for sustained effect.
Stimulates melanin for deeper, longer-lasting tans with reduced UV requirements
Increased melanin density provides natural UV protection and reduces sunburn
Promotes uniform melanin distribution minimizing patchy tanning
FDA-approved indication for SCENESSE implant
Mechanism
Synthetic analog of α-MSH that selectively targets MC1 receptors for melanin stimulation. FDA-approved as SCENESSE implant for erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP). Research-grade injectable form enables flexible dosing versus the implant version.
Subcutaneous injection delivers peptide directly into systemic circulation. Selectively activates MC1R receptors to stimulate melanin production. Short half-life of approximately 30 minutes necessitates multiple daily dosing for sustained effect.
Stimulates melanin for deeper, longer-lasting tans with reduced UV requirements
Research areas
- Synthetic analog of α-MSH that selectively targets MC1 receptors for melanin stimulation. FDA-approved as SCENESSE implant for erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP). Research-grade injectable form enables flexible dosing versus the implant version.
- Subcutaneous injection delivers peptide directly into systemic circulation. Selectively activates MC1R receptors to stimulate melanin production. Short half-life of approximately 30 minutes necessitates multiple daily dosing for sustained effect.
- Stimulates melanin for deeper, longer-lasting tans with reduced UV requirements
- Increased melanin density provides natural UV protection and reduces sunburn
- Promotes uniform melanin distribution minimizing patchy tanning
- FDA-approved indication for SCENESSE implant
Research notes
- Mild nausea
- Facial flushing
- Reduced appetite
- Increased mole/freckle pigmentation
- Severe nausea/vomiting lasting >24 hours
- Rapid concerning mole/freckle changes
- Injection site infection signs
- Unusual skin reactions
- Allergic reaction symptoms
Pharmacokinetics
- Subcutaneous injection delivers peptide directly into systemic circulation. Selectively activates MC1R receptors to stimulate melanin production. Short half-life of approximately 30 minutes necessitates multiple daily dosing for sustained effect.
References
FAQs
Is Melanotan I more selective than Melanotan II?
Yes. Melanotan I is more selective for MC1R (melanin production) and less active on MC4R (sexual function, appetite). This means MT-I causes tanning without the strong appetite suppression or sexual side effects of MT-II, making it better if tanning is the only goal.
How fast will I see results from Melanotan I?
Initial skin darkening appears within 3-7 days with UV exposure. Peak tanning is visible by week 2-4 with consistent low-dose UV tanning. The combination of MT-I plus 50% less UV exposure than normal achieves deep tans much faster than sun exposure alone.
Can I use Melanotan I without any UV exposure?
Melanotan I stimulates melanin production, so some pigment develops without sun exposure. However, UV exposure significantly enhances the effect—ideally low-dose tanning bed or sun exposure 1-2 hours after injection maximizes the tanning response.
Does Melanotan I cause mole changes like Melanotan II?
Less commonly than MT-II, but moles and freckles can darken and potentially enlarge with MT-I use. Regular skin monitoring via self-examination is important. The risk appears lower with MT-I than MT-II due to reduced MC3R/MC4R activation.