Melanotan II is a synthetic peptide analogue of the natural hormone alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH).
It was originally developed to stimulate skin pigmentation and protect against ultraviolet (UV) radiation damage.
By mimicking α-MSH, it activates melanocortin receptors, promoting melanin production in the skin — the pigment responsible for tanning.
Beyond tanning, studies have shown that Melanotan II can also influence sexual function and appetite, due to its action on other melanocortin receptors within the central nervous system.
Main effects of Melanotan II
🌞 Promotes gradual and natural-looking skin pigmentation
🛡️ Increases resistance to UV damage and sunburn
💪 Enhances libido and erectile response in men
⚖️ Helps regulate appetite and energy balance
🩸 Provides mild antioxidant and photo-protective support
😴 May improve sleep quality through melatonin-related pathways
How to take Melanotan II
Reconstitution
Reconstitute the powder with 1–2 ml of bacteriostatic or sterile water
Gently swirl (do not shake) until dissolved completely
Store the mixed solution refrigerated at 2–8 °C (36–46 °F)
Administration
Route: subcutaneous injection
Recommended injection areas: abdomen or thigh
Use fine insulin syringes for accurate dosing
Dosage
Initial phase: start with 250–500 mcg daily for 5–7 days
Titration: gradually increase to 1 mg per day as tolerance develops
Maintenance phase: inject 1–2 mg once or twice weekly to sustain pigmentation
Exposure to moderate sunlight or UV light enhances results
Possible side effects
Nausea or light flushing (common during the first injections)
Mild fatigue or dizziness
Darkening of freckles or existing moles
Temporary loss of appetite
Rarely: increased blood pressure or prolonged erections (in men)
Contraindications
Pregnancy or breastfeeding
History of melanoma or atypical skin lesions
Cardiovascular disorders or uncontrolled hypertension
Hypersensitivity to peptide compounds
How to store
Unmixed powder: store at room temperature (below 25 °C), away from sunlight
Reconstituted solution: refrigerate at 2–8 °C, do not freeze
Use within 30 days after dilution
How does Melanotan II work
Melanotan II binds to melanocortin receptors (MC1–MC5), particularly MC1R, found in skin melanocytes.
Activation of these receptors stimulates melanin synthesis, increasing the concentration of eumelanin, the dark pigment that gives skin a tanned appearance and natural UV protection.
In addition, Melanotan II also acts on MC3R and MC4R receptors in the brain, influencing sexual arousal and energy regulation.
This explains its secondary effects on libido and appetite control.
Through this mechanism, Melanotan II promotes uniform, gradual pigmentation, while providing protective and restorative effects against UV-induced skin stress.
