Melanotan 2
WELL RESEARCHEDSynthetic melanocortin peptide | Tanning & sexual function
Updated: August 2026.
Key points
- What it is: melanocortin analog peptide.
- Main use: tanning (skin pigmentation) and sexual function.
- Typical dose: 0.25–1 mg, subcutaneous injection.
- Key result: darkens the skin and may increase libido.
- Common effects: nausea, flushing and darkening of moles and freckles.
- Comparison: vs PT-141: MT2 also tans; PT-141 is only for sexual function.
- Status: not FDA-approved.
Overview
What is Melanotan 2?
Melanotan 2 is a synthetic analog of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (alpha-MSH) that stimulates melanin production to tan the skin and has additional effects on sexual arousal and appetite suppression. Originally developed at the University of Arizona as a sunless tanning agent, it has gained attention for its dual effect on pigmentation and sexual function through melanocortin receptor activation.
Key benefits
Rapid tanning without UV exposure, increased libido and sexual function, appetite suppression and improved mood through melanocortin activation.
Mechanism of action
It binds to melanocortin receptors (MC1R, MC3R, MC4R, MC5R) throughout the body. MC1R activation stimulates melanocytes to produce eumelanin, while MC4R influences sexual arousal and appetite regulation.
Quick start guide
Dosing protocol
| Phase | Dose | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Loading | 0.25–0.5 mg | Daily until pigmentation is achieved |
| Maintenance | 0.5–1 mg | 1–2 times/week |
Subcutaneous route. The specific dose must be assessed by a healthcare professional.
🧮 Calculate your exact syringe dose →Melanotan 2 vs PT-141
| Melanotan 2 | PT-141 | |
|---|---|---|
| Main use | Tanning + libido | Sexual function (desire) |
| Tanning | Yes | No |
| Frequency | Regular use | As needed |
| FDA status | Not approved | Approved (Vyleesi) |
⚠️ Who should NOT use it
- People with atypical moles or a history of melanoma.
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding.
- Always under the supervision of a healthcare professional.
What to expect
- Day 1-3: possible mild nausea, flushing and fatigue after injection.
- Day 3-7: increased spontaneous erections (men) and greater arousal.
- Week 1-2: noticeable skin darkening and reduced appetite.
- Week 2-4: significant tanning and stabilized sexual effects.
- Week 4 onward: maintained tan with less frequent dosing.
Side effects & safety
- Start with a very low dose (0.1-0.25 mg) to assess tolerance.
- Nausea is common; if needed, it can be prevented with an antiemetic.
- Monitor moles and freckles for changes in size or color.
- Stay hydrated to minimize headaches and flushing.
- Avoid if you have a history of melanoma or dysplastic nevi.
- Blood pressure may rise temporarily after injection.
- Allergic reaction: rash, itching or swelling.
- Any new mole or freckle, or one that changes in size, shape or color.
- Severe, persistent nausea or vomiting.
- Chest pain, difficulty breathing or a marked rise in blood pressure.
- Severe headaches or vision changes.
- Painful or prolonged erections (priapism) — seek medical attention.
Frequently asked questions
What is Melanotan 2?
Melanotan 2 is a synthetic analog of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (alpha-MSH). It stimulates melanin production and affects sexual function.
What is Melanotan 2 researched for?
It is studied for sunless tanning, libido and appetite suppression.
How does Melanotan 2 work?
It activates melanocortin receptors: MC1R is involved in tanning and MC4R in sexual arousal and appetite.
How long does Melanotan 2 take to work?
Tanning appears in 7-10 days, sexual effects in 2-4 hours and appetite reduction almost immediately.
What is the usual Melanotan 2 dose?
Most commonly 0.25-1 mg, starting with very low doses to assess tolerance.
How is Melanotan 2 administered?
Subcutaneously (abdomen, thigh or arm).
How is Melanotan 2 stored?
Refrigerate the reconstituted peptide and protect it from light. See the storage guide.
What are the side effects of Melanotan 2?
Nausea and facial flushing, a possible temporary rise in blood pressure and darkening of moles. It is advisable to monitor moles and freckles.
Which peptides is Melanotan 2 related to?
It is related to PT-141, of the same melanocortin family, focused on sexual function.
Is Melanotan 2 approved?
It is not FDA-approved.
What is the difference between Melanotan 2 and PT-141?
Melanotan 2 tans and also affects libido; PT-141 focuses on sexual function with little skin pigmentation.
Research areas
- Tanning and pigmentation
- Sexual function and libido
- Appetite suppression
- Mood
- Melanocortin receptors
Related peptides
- PT-141 — Melanocortin agonist focused on sexual function.
- GHK-Cu — Copper peptide for skin and anti-aging.
- Epitalon — Pineal tetrapeptide related to anti-aging.
Related articles
Related topics
- Melanotan 2 for tanning
- Melanotan 2 and libido
- Melanotan 2 dose
- Melanotan 2 side effects
- Melanotan 2 vs PT-141
- Melanotan 2 and appetite
Summary
What it is: Synthetic alpha-MSH analog (melanocortin).
How it is researched: Subcutaneous, 0.25-1 mg, starting low.
Key features: Tans, affects libido and appetite. Not FDA-approved.
Related peptides: PT-141, GHK-Cu and Epitalon.