Question 1

What is the difference between Melanotan I and Melanotan II?

Accepted Answer

Melanotan I (afamelanotide) selectively targets MC1R receptors, producing pigmentation effects only. Melanotan II is a non-selective melanocortin agonist that activates MC1R, MC3R, MC4R, and MC5R, causing pigmentation plus sexual arousal, appetite suppression, and other effects. MT-I has a cleaner safety profile because it avoids off-target receptor activation.

Question 2

Is Melanotan I FDA-approved?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Afamelanotide (branded as Scenesse) received FDA approval in October 2019 for the treatment of erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP), a rare genetic disorder causing extreme sun sensitivity. It is the only FDA-approved melanocortin receptor agonist for a dermatological indication.

Question 3

Can Melanotan I be used for tanning?

Accepted Answer

Scenesse is only FDA-approved for EPP, not cosmetic tanning. While MT-I does increase skin pigmentation, using it off-label for tanning is not approved and research peptide versions are not pharmaceutical grade. The clinical trials focused on photoprotection in EPP patients, not cosmetic outcomes.

Question 4

Does Melanotan I cause erections like Melanotan II?

Accepted Answer

No. Melanotan I selectively targets MC1R and does not significantly activate MC4R, the receptor responsible for the sexual function effects seen with Melanotan II. This selective targeting is one of the main advantages of MT-I over MT-II.

Question 5

How is Melanotan I administered?

Accepted Answer

The FDA-approved version (Scenesse) is a subcutaneous implant placed by a healthcare provider every 2 months. Research peptide versions come as lyophilized powder for subcutaneous injection, but these are not FDA-approved formulations.

Question 6

Does Melanotan I increase melanoma risk?

Accepted Answer

Current evidence does not show an increased melanoma risk with afamelanotide. The selective MC1R activation actually promotes eumelanin production, which is the protective form of melanin. However, any compound that stimulates melanocytes warrants monitoring. Regular dermatological exams are recommended.

Question 7

How long does Melanotan I tanning last?

Accepted Answer

Pigmentation from MT-I persists for several weeks after the implant is depleted because melanin is deposited in keratinocytes and remains until those cells naturally shed through epidermal turnover. The effect gradually fades over 4-8 weeks without continued treatment.

Question 8

What are the side effects of Melanotan I?

Accepted Answer

The most common side effects are mild nausea, headache, and injection site reactions. Darkening of existing moles and freckles can occur. The side effect profile is significantly milder than Melanotan II because MT-I does not activate the receptors responsible for sexual effects, blood pressure changes, or severe nausea.

Question 9

Is Melanotan I legal?

Accepted Answer

Scenesse (afamelanotide) is a legal, FDA-approved prescription medication for EPP. Research-grade Melanotan I peptide is legal to purchase for research purposes in most jurisdictions but is not approved for human cosmetic use.

Question 10

How much does Melanotan I cost?

Accepted Answer

Scenesse (the FDA-approved implant) is a specialty medication with a high cost, typically covered by insurance for EPP patients. Research peptide versions are significantly less expensive but are not pharmaceutical grade and lack FDA oversight.

Question 11

Can Melanotan I help with vitiligo?

Accepted Answer

Preliminary research suggests melanocortin agonists may have potential for repigmentation in vitiligo, but this is not an approved indication. Clinical trials are ongoing. Consult a dermatologist for current treatment options.

Question 12

What is erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP)?

Accepted Answer

EPP is a rare genetic disorder where the body produces excess protoporphyrin IX, causing extreme sensitivity to sunlight. Even brief sun exposure causes severe burning pain, swelling, and scarring. Scenesse (afamelanotide) increases melanin to provide a protective barrier against this phototoxic reaction.

Type	Other
FDA Status	FDA Approved
Evidence Level	Strong
Typical Dose	16 mg subcutaneous implant (FDA-approved for EPP)
Frequency	Every 2 months (implant)
Cycle Length	Ongoing as prescribed
Key Goals

Melanotan I

How it works

Benefits

Side effects

Dosing protocol

What you will need

Bacteriostatic Water (30mL)

Insulin Syringes (1mL, 29ga)

Alcohol Prep Pads

Sharps Container

Key research

Afamelanotide for Erythropoietic Protoporphyria

Three-year observational study of afamelanotide in erythropoietic protoporphyria

Tanning and cutaneous melanin synthesis with subcutaneous melanotan-I and UV exposure

FDA status

Frequently asked questions

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