Anti-AgingSexual Health

Melanotan 1 (Afamelanotide)

Also known as MT-1, Afamelanotide, Scenesse, CUV1647

Melanotan 1 (Afamelanotide) is a synthetic α-MSH (alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone) analogue that stimulates melanogenesis — the production of melanin — providing significant photoprotection. Unlike Melanotan 2, MT-1 has minimal sexual side effects and does not cause spontaneous erections. It is FDA-approved under the trade name Scenesse for erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP). Used off-label for skin tanning, photoprotection, and potentially skin cancer prevention.

Typical dosing

500–1000 mcg · Once daily (loading) then 2–3x per week maintenance

Administration

SubQ, IM

Half-life

~1–2 hours (shorter than MT-2)

Level

intermediate

How it works

Binds and activates MC1R (melanocortin 1 receptor) on melanocytes, stimulating eumelanin (brown/black pigment) production. More selective for MC1R vs MC3R/MC4R compared to MT-2, resulting in less sexual/appetite side effects. Eumelanin absorbs UV radiation and protects DNA.

Benefits

Potent skin tanning without sun exposure required
Significant photoprotection — reduces UV-induced DNA damage
FDA-approved for EPP (erythropoietic protoporphyria)
Lower side effect profile than Melanotan 2
Potential protective effects against melanoma (controversial)
More even, natural-looking tan vs MT-2
Mood elevation (via melanocortin receptors)

Dosing

500–1000 mcg · Once daily (loading) then 2–3x per week maintenance

Loading: 500–1000mcg/day for 1–2 weeks until desired color. Maintenance: 500–1000mcg 2–3x per week. Lower doses than MT-2 needed. Use with sun exposure for best results.

Ranges reflect commonly cited research protocols, not a prescription. Dose with a licensed provider.

Reconstitution

10mg vial with 2mL BAC water = 5mg/mL = 5000mcg/mL. Store refrigerated, light-sensitive.

Helix’s free reconstitution calculator gives you the exact draw volume → get the app

Common stacks

PT-141Melanotan 2 (alternative, not combined)BPC-157

Reported side effects

Nausea (less than MT-2 but possible at higher doses)
Flushing and skin redness
Spontaneous erections (much less than MT-2)
Fatigue/drowsiness
Darkening of moles and freckles — monitor for changes
Yawning

Who it’s for

Those seeking skin tanning with lower side effect risk than MT-2. People with fair skin, EPP, or high sun exposure risk. Intermediate users familiar with peptide protocols.

Track Melanotan 1 (Afamelanotide) in Helix

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