Tanning & Pigmentation / Subcutaneous
Melanotan I
Also known as Afamelanotide, CUV1647, Scenesse (FDA-approved formulation)
Also known as Afamelanotide, this melanocortin receptor agonist induces skin pigmentation and provides photoprotection. FDA-approved for erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP) under the brand name Scenesse.
What is Melanotan I used for? Research has focused on induces skin pigmentation and tanning; provides photoprotection against uv damage; reduces photosensitivity in erythropoietic protoporphyria.
Compare with other peptides studied forskin health,sexual health
Melanotan I injection at a glance
Figures from the published research literature. Research use only.
- Dose range
- 0.5-1 mg
- Route
- Subcutaneous
How often, when, and the dosing notes are in the dosing reference further down.
Work out your units in the free calculatorBeginner basics
Plain-English guide to Melanotan I
- What it does
- This peptide signals your body to produce more melanin, which is the pigment that darkens your skin and protects it from UV damage. Researchers study it because it can create a tan-like effect and may reduce sun sensitivity.
- Typical dose
- Researchers commonly use 0.5 to 1 mg injected under the skin once daily, starting at the lower dose and adjusting based on how much pigmentation develops.
- When to inject
- Any time of day works, but pick the same time each day so you can track your results consistently.
- Storage
- Keep the powder in the freezer at -20°C until you mix it. After mixing with liquid, store it in the refrigerator between 2-8°C and keep it away from light.
- Beginner tip
- Start with the lowest dose (0.5 mg) and give it time-pigmentation changes take 1-2 weeks to show, so resist the urge to increase the dose too quickly.
Research status
- Evidence grade A
- Large human randomised controlled trials, or approved by the FDA or another major authority.
- FDA approved
- Approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for at least one indication.
Extensive Clinical Data
For research purposes only. Not approved for human use. Not medical advice.
Research areas
- Induces skin pigmentation and tanning
- Provides photoprotection against UV damage
- Reduces photosensitivity in erythropoietic protoporphyria
- Melanocortin receptor agonist activity
- Fewer systemic side effects than Melanotan II
Side effects
| Effect | How often | Severity |
|---|---|---|
| NauseaOccurs in a small percentage of users, typically within the first few hours after injection. Usually self-resolving. Taking the injection with food or at bedtime may reduce incidence. Afamelanotide has a lower incidence of nausea compared to Melanotan II due to MC1R selectivity. | Uncommon | Mild |
| Facial flushingTransient redness or warmth in the face, typically occurring within 1-2 hours of injection and resolving within 30 minutes to 2 hours. More common at higher doses or in individuals with fair skin. | Uncommon | Mild |
| Injection site erythema (redness)Localized redness, warmth, or mild swelling at the injection site, typically resolving within 24 hours. Minimize by rotating injection sites, allowing the solution to reach room temperature, and using proper injection technique. Apply ice if needed. | Common | Mild |
| Injection site pruritus (itching)Mild itching at the injection site, usually transient. Avoid scratching to prevent skin damage. Antihistamine cream may provide relief if bothersome. | Uncommon | Mild |
| HeadacheMild headache reported in a small percentage of users, typically occurring within hours of injection and resolving within 24 hours. Hydration and over-the-counter analgesics may help. | Uncommon | Mild |
| Darkening of existing moles or neviAfamelanotide stimulates melanin production systemically, which may darken pre-existing moles and freckles. This is expected and generally reversible upon discontinuation. Users with numerous or atypical moles should consult a dermatologist before use and undergo baseline skin examination. | Common | Mild |
| Spontaneous erections (in males)Rare in users of afamelanotide due to MC1R selectivity; more common with non-selective melanocortin agonists like Melanotan II. If occurs, typically self-resolving and not requiring intervention. | Rare | Mild |
| Appetite stimulationRare with afamelanotide due to MC1R selectivity; MC3R and MC4R agonism (which afamelanotide minimally engages) are responsible for appetite effects seen with non-selective melanocortin agonists. | Rare | Mild |
| Photosensitivity or phototoxic reaction (in EPP patients)In erythropoietic protoporphyria patients, afamelanotide is used specifically to reduce phototoxic reactions. However, inadequate melanin induction or continued high UV exposure may still trigger reactions. Requires medical evaluation and adjustment of sun protection strategies. | Rare | Moderate |
| Allergic reaction (hypersensitivity)Rare but possible; may include urticaria, angioedema, or anaphylaxis. Seek immediate medical attention if signs of allergy develop (difficulty breathing, throat tightness, severe rash). Discontinue use immediately. | Rare | Serious |
Dosing reference
Dose scale from the research
- Starting
- 0.5 mg
- Typical
- 0.75 mg
- Upper end
- 1 mg
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Dose range | 0.5-1 mg |
Frequency, timing and route are for members | |
Research disclaimer. Figures are drawn from published research literature and community logs. They are not clinical recommendations. Consult a qualified professional. Research use only.
Reconstitution guide
- Do not use saline or bacteriostatic saline, use only bacteriostatic water for reconstitution
- Do not shake the vial vigorously; gentle swirling prevents peptide degradation
- Discard immediately if the solution appears cloudy, discolored, or contains visible particles
- Use within 30 days of reconstitution when stored at 2-8°C
- Do not freeze the reconstituted solution; freezing may denature the peptide
- Use the PeptideVolt reconstitution calculator for your exact concentration
Worked example
With 5 mg in the vial, the water you add changes the draw. Mixed with 1 mL that is 5,000 mcg per mL, so on a U-100 syringe 0.5 mg is 10 units and 1 mg is 20 units. Mixed with 2 mL it is 2,500 mcg per mL, so 0.5 mg is 20 units and 1 mg is 40 units.
Storage and stability
Store lyophilized peptide at -20°C. Refrigerate after reconstitution (2-8°C). Protect from light.
Molecular and pharmacological data
| Molecular weight | 1817.9 Da |
|---|---|
| Half-life | Approximately 2-3 hours (in vivo); longer tissue retention due to MC1R binding |
| Sequence | Members only |
Melanotan I (afamelanotide) is a selective melanocortin-1 receptor (MC1R) agonist that mimics alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH). Upon binding to MC1R on melanocytes, it triggers a signaling cascade that increases intracellular cAMP, leading to upregulation of tyrosinase and enhanced melanin synthesis and transfer to keratinocytes. This results in increased skin pigmentation and provides photoprotection by increasing the eumelanin (protective pigment) content of the skin, reducing UV-induced DNA damage and apoptosis.
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Research citations
5 sources
Levine N, Levine E. (2011). Risk of melanoma associated with the use of sunscreens. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology. PMID: 21839315. Discusses photoprotection mechanisms and melanin induction.
Böhm M, Wolff I, Scholzen TE, et al. (2006). Alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone protects from ultraviolet radiation-induced apoptosis and DNA damage. Journal of Biological Chemistry. DOI: 10.1074/jbc.M601083200. Demonstrates MC1R-mediated photoprotection.
Lim HW, Hawk JL. (2007). Photoprotection and vitamin D in patients with porphyria cutanea tarda and erythropoietic protoporphyria. Photodermatology, Photoimmunology & Photomedicine. PMID: 17250666. Clinical evidence for afamelanotide in EPP.
Langendonk JG, Balwani M, Anderson KE, et al. (2015). Afamelanotide and narrowband UV-B phototherapy for erythropoietic protoporphyria. New England Journal of Medicine. DOI: 10.1056/NEJMoa1411481. Phase 3 trial showing efficacy and safety profile.
Bard DR, Peachey RD, Estes SA, et al. (1990). Melanin induction and photoprotection by alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone. Photodermatology. PMID: 2077063. Early mechanistic studies on MSH analogues.
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Research use only. All content on this page is provided for informational and educational purposes related to scientific research. Melanotan I is not approved for human use by the FDA or any equivalent regulatory body. This is not medical advice. Do not use any substance discussed here for therapeutic, diagnostic, or preventative purposes. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any health-related decisions. The Peptide Volt does not endorse the use of any research chemicals. 18+ only.