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Melanotan II
Synthetic analog of alpha-MSH. Induces melanogenesis for skin tanning.
What Melanotan II is
Melanotan II is a synthetic peptide designed to mimic the actions of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (alpha-MSH), a naturally occurring pituitary hormone. It functions primarily as a non-selective agonist of melanocortin receptors (MCRs), particularly MC1, MC3, MC4, and MC5 receptors. By activating the MC1 receptor found on melanocytes, Melanotan II stimulates melanogenesis, the biochemical process responsible for producing melanin pigment in the skin. This leads to an increase in both eumelanin and pheomelanin, contributing to skin pigmentation and darkening. The peptide generally has a short biological half-life, typically measured in hours.
When explored in research contexts, the observable effects of increased skin pigmentation typically manifest gradually over several weeks of consistent administration, with noticeable changes often appearing within two to three weeks and becoming more pronounced with continued use. Individuals may observe a progressive darkening of the skin, similar to a sun tan. Cycles can range from several weeks to a few months, often involving an initial loading phase followed by a maintenance phase. Notable considerations include the potential for existing moles or freckles to darken, or for new ones to appear, and individual responses can vary significantly. It is important to remember that Melanotan II is a research peptide and is not approved for human therapeutic use outside of research settings.
Commonly reported effects
- Skin darkening
- Reduced sun damage
- Appetite suppression
- Libido
Reported side effects & considerations
- Nausea
- Facial flushing
- Darkening of moles
- Spontaneous erections
Storage & handling
LYOPHILIZED (unopened): store at 2-8°C (fridge) or -20°C (freezer) long-term. Protect from light.
AFTER RECONSTITUTION: refrigerate 2-8°C. Do NOT freeze. Discard after 30 days OR if the solution becomes cloudy, discolored, or contains particulates.
What people track
Because individual responses vary so much, the useful thing is your own record: what you logged and when, how much is left in the vial, and how your chosen metrics move over the weeks. Peptide Wizard keeps all of that in one place, alongside a 3D reference vial for Melanotan II.
FAQ
What is Melanotan II?
Synthetic analog of alpha-MSH. Induces melanogenesis for skin tanning.
What do people commonly report with Melanotan II?
Commonly reported effects include skin darkening, reduced sun damage, appetite suppression, libido.
How should Melanotan II be stored?
LYOPHILIZED (unopened): store at 2-8°C (fridge) or -20°C (freezer) long-term. Protect from light.
How do I keep track of Melanotan II in my research log?
Peptide Wizard lets you record each entry, keep a vial ledger so you know what's left, and chart your own metrics over time. It is a logbook and reference only — it does not calculate or recommend doses.
More in Aesthetics
Melanotan IAlpha-MSH analog. Slower, milder tanning effect than MT-II with fewer …This page is educational. It does not contain dosing guidance and is not medical advice.