This content is for educational purposes only. Not medical advice. Always consult a licensed healthcare professional before using any peptides.

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Anti-AgingLow RiskFDA-approved as Scenesse (implant) for EPP.

Melanotan I (Afamelanotide)

The Skin Protector

Melanotan I (Afamelanotide) is a selective MC1 receptor agonist that stimulates eumelanin production, providing photoprotection without the broad side effects of Melanotan II. FDA-approved as Scenesse for erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP), it offers a controlled approach to increasing melanin for UV protection and cosmetic tanning without the sexual side effects or mole darkening concerns.

If You Take This

  • Selective melanin stimulation for UV protection
  • FDA-approved for EPP (as Scenesse)
  • Minimal sexual side effects vs Melanotan II
  • Reduces UV-induced DNA damage
  • Provides cosmetic tanning effect
  • Well-studied safety profile compared to MT-II

Protocol

Dosing
Clinical: 16mg subcutaneous implant every 2 months (Scenesse). Research dosing: 0.5-1mg subcutaneous every other day during loading, then weekly maintenance.
Cycle Length
Implant: every 60 days. Research protocol: 4-6 week loading, then maintenance as needed.
Half-Life
30 minutes (free peptide); implant provides sustained release
Best Time
Any time of day (implant) or evening for injection
Method
Subcutaneous implant (clinical) or subcutaneous injection (research)

Stacks Well With

Vitamin D supplementationSunscreen (complementary, not replacement)GHK-Cu (skin synergy)

Avoid With

Not a substitute for sunscreenCaution in those with melanoma history

Side Effects

  • Nausea (mild, less than MT-II)
  • Headache
  • Facial flushing
  • Fatigue
  • Generally well-tolerated with fewer side effects than Melanotan II

Where to Buy

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Prices last verified: April 3, 2026

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★ 4.4
$40.00
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For educational and informational purposes only. Not medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider before starting any peptide protocol.