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Melanotan II

Name: Melanotan II
Brand: Tides Peptides

Price

$49.00

Melanotan II, often called the “sunless tanning peptide,” is a synthetic analog of a naturally occurring hormone that stimulates melanin production in the skin. It is known for promoting a deeper, more even tan without excessive UV exposure. In addition to its tanning effects, Melanotan II may support libido enhancement and appetite regulation, contributing to overall confidence and well-being.

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$49.00

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Research

Melanotan II: Molecular Mechanisms and Physiological Effects

Molecular Overview

Melanotan II (MT-II) is a synthetic analog of alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone (α-MSH), a melanocortin peptide that binds to melanocortin receptors (primarily MC1R and MC4R).

MC1R activation in melanocytes triggers melanin biosynthesis, increasing skin pigmentation and providing photoprotective effects against ultraviolet (UV) radiation.
MC4R activation in the hypothalamus modulates energy balance, appetite, and sexual behavior, linking pigmentation with systemic metabolic and neuroendocrine pathways.

MT-II is structurally engineered for enhanced receptor stability and prolonged half-life, allowing for predictable pharmacodynamic effects with subcutaneous administration.

Mechanism of Action

1. Melanin Production and Photoprotection

MT-II stimulates tyrosinase activity and upregulates melanosome formation in epidermal melanocytes.
Increased eumelanin synthesis results in a deeper, more even skin pigmentation.
The elevated melanin layer provides UV absorption, reducing photodamage, DNA oxidation, and risk of sunburn.

2. Hypothalamic Regulation of Appetite and Energy Balance

MT-II activates MC4R signaling in hypothalamic nuclei, which suppresses orexigenic neuropeptides (NPY/AgRP) and enhances anorexigenic pathways (POMC/α-MSH).
This contributes to reduced appetite and improved energy expenditure, supporting weight management.

3. Neuroendocrine and Sexual Function Modulation

MC4R activation in central nervous system circuits enhances sexual arousal, libido, and erectile response.
MT-II’s central melanocortin activity influences dopaminergic and autonomic pathways, mediating both sexual behavior and mood-related neuroendocrine responses.

4. Skin Tone and Aesthetic Enhancement

Beyond melanin synthesis, MT-II improves skin homogeneity and overall complexion by promoting even pigmentation and reducing UV-induced erythema.

Physiological and Clinical Effects

Enhanced Melanin Production: Achieves a natural-looking tan with minimal UV exposure.
Photoprotection: Reduces risk of sunburn and UV-induced DNA damage.
Appetite Suppression: Modulates hypothalamic feeding pathways to support weight management.
Libido and Sexual Arousal: Enhances sexual drive and performance through central melanocortin signaling.
Skin Tone Improvement: Promotes even pigmentation and improved aesthetic appearance.

Therapeutic and Research Applications

Melanotan II is investigated and applied for:

Cosmetic tanning and photoprotection in fair or UV-sensitive skin populations
Sexual dysfunction or libido enhancement
Adjunctive weight management through mild appetite suppression
Research into melanocortin receptor signaling and metabolic/endocrine regulation

MT-II represents a multifunctional melanocortin peptide, integrating cutaneous photoprotection, neuroendocrine regulation, and metabolic modulation within a single pharmacologically active molecule.

Legal Policy:

This product is strictly for research purposes only and is intended solely for in vitro testing and laboratory experimentation. The information provided on this website is for educational use and does not permit the introduction of this product into humans or animals. Handling of this product is restricted to licensed and qualified professionals. It is not classified as a drug, food, or cosmetic, and should not be misrepresented or used as such.

Disclaimer

All products sold on this site are for research and development use only. They are not intended for human or animal use.

The statements on this website have not been evaluated by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Our products and content are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Tides Peptides is a chemical supplier, not a compounding pharmacy or a chemical compounding facility as defined under section 503A of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act.

Ingredients

Molecular Formula

Sequence: Ac‑Nle‑cyclo[(Asp)‑Pro‑D‑Nal‑Trp‑Lys]‑NH₂
Formula: C₅₀H₆₉N₁₁O₉
Molecular Weight: ~1,004.27 g/mol

View Certificate of Analysis

FAQ

1. What is Melanotan II, and why does it matter?

Melanotan II stimulates the body’s natural production of melanin, the pigment responsible for skin color. It was originally developed to help reduce the risk of skin cancer by promoting a natural tan without excessive UV exposure. It’s also known for additional benefits like increased libido and appetite regulation.

2. What are the benefits of Melanotan II?

Melanotan II is popular for both cosmetic and performance-related benefits, including:

A deeper, more even tan with less sun exposure
Reduced risk of sunburn and UV damage
Enhanced sexual desire and libido
Possible appetite suppression and fat loss support

It’s a favorite among individuals looking to maintain a bronzed look while minimizing sun damage.

3. What is Melanotan II used for?

Common uses of Melanotan II include:

Achieving a natural-looking tan with minimal sun exposure
Supporting photoprotection for fair or sun-sensitive skin
Enhancing libido and sexual performance
Aesthetic purposes for skin tone improvement
Occasionally explored for weight management due to mild appetite-suppressing effects