Melanotan II
10mg vial
A$ 142Rp 1.600.000
A compound studied for pigmentation and tanning support. Prompts the body to produce its own skin pigment (melanin). Titrated carefully and often paired with moderate, controlled UV exposure.
Compound overview
What it is
Melanotan II (MT-II) is a non-selective melanocortin receptor agonist acting at MC1R, MC3R, MC4R, and MC5R. MC1R activation in melanocytes stimulates eumelanin (brown/black pigment) production — increasing the natural tan response. MC4R activation produces the same libido and appetite-suppression side effects seen with PT-141 (they share structural similarity). MT-II is more potent and longer-acting than natural alpha-MSH, making careful titration essential.
Skin melanin content increases — skin darkens with or without UV exposure, though UV dramatically amplifies the effect. Freckles and moles may darken and increase in number. Libido increases as a side effect from MC4R activation. Appetite suppresses modestly. Spontaneous erections occur in men at doses above a threshold. Nausea is a common initial side effect that diminishes with titration.
Studied outcomes
- Significant melanin increase and tanning in clinical studies with moderate UV
- Spontaneous erections and libido effects in male clinical trials (led to PT-141 development)
- Appetite suppression via MC4R activation
- Protective melanogenesis — increased melanin may offer some UV protection
- Photoprotective eumelanin induction in fair-skinned subjects
Suitability
Who it's for
- Tanning enhancement in those who tan poorly or want deeper baseline pigment
- Photoprotective melanogenesis in fair-skinned individuals with high UV exposure
- Clients who understand the full side-effect profile and want controlled melanogenesis
Who should avoid it
- History of melanoma or familial melanoma — melanocortin receptor stimulation is contraindicated
- Multiple atypical naevi or dysplastic moles — regular dermatological monitoring required before use
- Pregnancy
- Those not prepared to monitor skin changes carefully throughout use
- Children or adolescents
Dosing guidance
Protocol guidance
Dose
Start at 0.25mg and titrate slowly — maximum research dose typically 0.5–1.0mg
Frequency
Daily during loading; reduce to maintenance 3–4× per week once desired pigment is reached
Cycle length
4–8 weeks loading; maintenance dosing ongoing with UV exposure
Route
Subcutaneous injection
Timing
Evening dosing reduces nausea impact and aligns with reduced UV exposure hours
Safety
Contraindications & cautions
- Mole and skin lesion monitoring is mandatory — photograph existing moles, monitor monthly, see a dermatologist before starting
- Nausea is dose-dependent and common at initiation — titrate slowly and administer on a full stomach
- Yawning and fatigue may occur at the onset of dosing
- Spontaneous erections in males are a common side effect at standard doses
- Flushing and facial redness common
- NEVER use in melanoma history
Stacking
Pairs well with
Glutathione can modulate melanin synthesis toward phaeomelanin (lighter) vs eumelanin (darker) — used in skin tone balancing protocols
Not medical advice. Not a substitute for medical care. Consult your licensed practitioner before beginning any protocol. Peptides are sold for research purposes only and are suitable for adults aged 18 years and over.