Melanotan 1 (MT-1)
Sunless Tanning and Photoprotection with Precision
What is Melanotan 1?
Melanotan 1—also known as afamelanotide—is a synthetic peptide analog of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH). It binds selectively to melanocortin 1 receptors (MC1R) in the skin, triggering the production of melanin, the pigment responsible for skin color. MT-1 offers controlled tanning effects and significant photoprotective properties, making it a promising option for individuals seeking UV-free tanning and protection from sun-induced skin damage.
Unlike its cousin Melanotan 2 (MT-2), MT-1 is highly receptor-selective, resulting in minimal side effects and no impact on libido. It is currently FDA-approved in Europe and Australia (under the brand name Scenesse®) for use in specific medical conditions like erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP)—a rare photosensitivity disorder.
Key Mechanism: Melanotan 1 binds MC1R receptors in skin cells, stimulating eumelanin production (the darker, UV-protective type of melanin), which enhances tanning and shields the skin from UV damage.
Core Benefits of Melanotan 1
🌞 Safe, Even Tanning Without UV Damage
- Promotes a natural tan without sun exposure
- Reduces the need for prolonged UV or tanning bed exposure
- Helps individuals who burn easily tan more safely
🛡️ Photoprotection
- Increases melanin, providing natural sunscreen-like defense
- Reduces UV-induced DNA damage and inflammation
- Especially useful for those with fair skin, sun allergies, or photosensitivity disorders
🧬 DNA Repair & Skin Cancer Prevention Potential
- Early research suggests MT-1 may reduce the formation of cyclobutane pyrimidine dimers—a key marker of UV-induced DNA damage
- May lower long-term risk of skin cancers like melanoma and basal cell carcinoma
👩⚕️ Medical Use in EPP and Related Conditions
- Approved as Scenesse® for treating EPP, allowing patients to tolerate sunlight
- Investigated for vitiligo, solar urticaria, and photoaging
Reference: D’Orazio JA, et al. “Topical delivery of the melanocortin peptide α-MSH analog reduces UV-induced DNA damage in human skin.” J Invest Dermatol. 2012;132(4):1093–1101. doi:10.1038/jid.2011.409
Melanotan 1 vs. Melanotan 2
| Feature | Melanotan 1 (MT-1) | Melanotan 2 (MT-2) |
|---|---|---|
| Receptor Selectivity | High (MC1R only) | Broad (MC1R, MC3R, MC4R) |
| Tanning Effect | Predictable, gradual | Stronger, often darker |
| Libido Effects | None | Increases libido (via MC4R) |
| Side Effects | Minimal (mostly skin-related) | Nausea, flushing, libido spikes |
| Medical Use | Approved in EPP (Scenesse®) | Not medically approved |
| Best For | Medical tanning & photoprotection | Cosmetic tanning with libido effects |
Mechanism of Action
Melanotan 1 mimics α-MSH, which naturally stimulates melanin production in melanocytes. By binding selectively to MC1R, it promotes:
- Eumelanin synthesis – a darker, more UV-protective pigment
- Melanocyte activation – enhancing the body’s response to UV light
- Minimal cross-activation – no effect on appetite, mood, or sexual function
This selectivity allows MT-1 to deliver aesthetic and medical tanning benefits without unwanted systemic effects.
Dosing and Administration
Melanotan 1 is administered subcutaneously, often in a loading and maintenance format.
Typical Experimental Dosing:
- Loading dose: 500–1,000 mcg once daily for 10–14 days
- Maintenance: 500 mcg 2–3x/week thereafter
- Injection site: SC into abdominal area, rotating locations
Sun exposure (even minimal) after dosing enhances tanning response but should be controlled to avoid overexposure.
In clinical use (as Scenesse®), a 16 mg implant is inserted subcutaneously and lasts approximately 60 days, typically for EPP patients.
Safety and Side Effects
MT-1 is considered well-tolerated, especially compared to MT-2. Since it does not bind MC3R or MC4R, it avoids most systemic side effects.
Possible side effects (rare or mild):
- Temporary flushing
- Injection site irritation
- Mild nausea (rare)
- Freckle/dark spot darkening in predisposed individuals
MT-1 does not cause increased libido, appetite, or blood pressure spikes, making it suitable for conservative or medical use.
Conclusion
Melanotan 1 (MT-1) offers a precise, well-researched way to enhance tanning, protect against sun damage, and support dermatological health—without the systemic side effects seen in other peptides. Whether used cosmetically or therapeutically, MT-1 represents a safe, selective approach to photoprotection and pigmentation enhancement.
With growing medical applications and a strong clinical safety record, MT-1 is a powerful peptide tool for individuals seeking sun-free tanning, UV resilience, and advanced dermatologic support.