Melanotan 1 vs Melanotan II
Selective melanocortin agonist vs broader-acting analog.
| Attribute | Melanotan 1 Afamelanotide, MT-1 | Melanotan II MT-II |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Skin, Hair & Beauty | Skin, Hair & Beauty |
| Best known for | Selective melanocortin-1 receptor research | Tanning research |
| In plain English | Same tanning idea as MT-2, but more selective for the pigmentation receptor and less likely to hit libido or appetite pathways. | MT-II is the tanning peptide. Researchers study how it activates melanin production with secondary effects on appetite and libido. |
| How it works | Activates MC1R on melanocytes to drive eumelanin synthesis, producing skin darkening and potential photoprotection. | Non-selective melanocortin receptor agonist (MC1R for pigmentation, MC4R for libido and appetite). |
| Researchers study | Erythropoietic protoporphyria (approved indication), vitiligo, and photoprotection. | Melanogenesis, sexual function, and appetite suppression. |
| Internet discussion | Discussed as the 'cleaner tanning peptide' relative to MT-2. | Cult following for tanning, but nausea and mole changes are common discussion points. |
Melanotan 1
Selective melanocortin-1 receptor research
Same tanning idea as MT-2, but more selective for the pigmentation receptor and less likely to hit libido or appetite pathways.
Activates MC1R on melanocytes to drive eumelanin synthesis, producing skin darkening and potential photoprotection.
Erythropoietic protoporphyria (approved indication), vitiligo, and photoprotection.
Discussed as the 'cleaner tanning peptide' relative to MT-2.
Melanotan 1 is a selective MC1R agonist researched for pigmentation, photoprotection, and EPP.
Melanotan II
Tanning research
MT-II is the tanning peptide. Researchers study how it activates melanin production with secondary effects on appetite and libido.
Non-selective melanocortin receptor agonist (MC1R for pigmentation, MC4R for libido and appetite).
Melanogenesis, sexual function, and appetite suppression.
Cult following for tanning, but nausea and mole changes are common discussion points.
Melanotan II is a non-selective melanocortin agonist researched for tanning and sexual function.