Melanotan I (Afamelanotide)

Selective MC1R agonist for skin pigmentation — FDA-approved as Scenesse for porphyria.

Melanotan I tells your skin's pigment cells to make melanin without needing sun, producing a real tan and meaningful UV protection. Because it's selective for the pigment receptor (MC1R) only, it's the cleaner and more predictable of the two melanotans — without the libido and nausea baggage of MT2. It's an actual approved drug (Scenesse) for people with a painful sun-sensitivity disorder. For everyone else the appeal is a protective base tan; get a skin check first, since it darkens existing moles.

Dose

250–500 mcg subQ daily during load.

Reconstitute

10 mg + 1 mL = 10 mg/mL. 2.5 units = 250 mcg.

Schedule

1–2 week loading, then 1–2× weekly maintenance.

Half-life

~30 minutes.

Timing

AM, paired with UV exposure for tanning.

Risks

Mild nausea. New moles or freckles. Darkening of existing moles — get a skin check first.

Educational reference — not medical advice. Many peptides are not approved for the uses discussed; verify status in your jurisdiction and decide anything here with a qualified clinician.

within Sexual Health & Reproductive