≥99% PURITY GUARANTEEDTHIRD-PARTY TESTEDSAME-DAY SHIPPING USACOA WITH EVERY ORDERFREE SHIPPING $200+

For research and educational purposes only. Not intended for human consumption.

Melanotan I

Extensively Studied
Updated Dec 2025

Melanocortin Receptor Agonist | Afamelanotide

InjectableNasal
Did you know? You can to improve this page.
0.5-1mg total daily
2-3x daily
Injectable
Subcutaneous: abdomen
2-4 weeks
Typical duration
2-8°C
Refrigerated

Overview

What is Melanotan I?

Melanotan I (afamelanotide) is a synthetic α-MSH analog that selectively targets MC1 receptors to stimulate melanin production. An FDA-approved implant (SCENESSE®) exists for erythropoietic protoporphyria. Research-grade injectable is studied for photoprotective and tanning effects.

Key Benefits

Precise dosing control, visible tanning within 1-2 weeks, more MC1R selective than Melanotan II with fewer side effects.

Mechanism of Action

Subcutaneous injection delivers MT-I with 100% bioavailability. 30-minute half-life requires multiple daily injections for sustained MC1R activation.

Molecular Information

1,646.85 Da
Weight
13
amino acids
Synthetic α-MSH analog
Type
Amino Acid Sequence:
Ac-Ser-Tyr-Ser-Nle-Glu-His-D-Phe-Arg-Trp-Gly-Lys-Pro-Val-NH2
* N-terminal acetylation and C-terminal amidation. Contains norleucine and D-phenylalanine.

Pharmacokinetics

Peak
30-60 minutes
Half-life
~30 minutes
Cleared
~2-4 hours
100%50%0%0h6h12h18h24h
Peak
Half-life
Cleared
Clinical studies

Research Indications

Enhanced Tanning

Deeper, longer-lasting tan with reduced UV exposure.

Photoprotection

Increased melanin provides natural UV protection.

Research Protocols

Disclaimer: Research-grade MT-I is not FDA-approved for tanning.

GoalDoseFrequencyRoute
Initial Tanning0.25mg2x dailySubcutaneous
Maintenance0.5mg1x dailySubcutaneous

Timing: Multiple daily injections due to 30-minute half-life. Best with minimal UV 2-3 hours post-injection.

Peptide Interactions

How to Reconstitute

Important: Always use bacteriostatic water (BAC). Sterile technique is essential.

1

Allow vials to reach room temp

2

Swab with alcohol

3

Draw 2ml BAC water

4

Inject slowly

5

Swirl gently

6

Refrigerate 2-8°C

Dosing Calculator

Calculate your injection volume with visual dosing guide

FINAL CONCENTRATION
2.50mg/mL
Each milliliter contains 2.50 mg of peptide
VISUAL REFERENCE (RESEARCH USE ONLY)

To obtain 250 mcg from this solution:

Draw 0.10 mL=10 units

(1 mL = 100 units on any insulin syringe)

0102030405060708090100
00.10.20.30.40.50.60.70.80.91.0
0.10 mL
10 units

Draw to this mark for 250 mcg

This calculator is for research purposes only. Always verify calculations and consult protocols.

Quality Indicators

Third-party testing

HPLC purity >98%.

Clear reconstitution

Clear and colorless.

Premixed solutions

Peptides degrade rapidly in solution.

What to Expect

  • Days 1-3: Mild nausea, flushing
  • Days 3-7: Initial skin darkening
  • Week 1-2: Noticeable tanning
  • Week 2-4: Peak tanning effects

Side Effects & Safety

Side Effects

  • Research peptide - not approved for tanning
  • Mild nausea and flushing
  • Monitor moles and skin changes
  • Maintain UV protection despite tanning

When to Stop

  • New or changing moles
  • Persistent nausea
  • Unusual skin reactions

References

1 Studies

Safety Profile (2006)

Human | 147 subjects | Minimal adverse events

Excellent tolerability with transient nausea/flushing.

View Study

Quick Start Guide

Typical Dose
0.25-0.5mg
How Often
1-2x daily
Where to Inject
SubQ: abdomen
Timing
Morning and evening, 6-8 hours apart
Effects Timeline
3-5 days: initial darkening; 1-2 weeks: significant tan
Storage
Reconstituted: 2-8°C for up to 4 weeks
Cycle Length
2-4 weeks loading, then maintenance
Break Between
4-8 weeks between cycles

Research Disclaimer

Melanotan I is sold for laboratory research purposes only and is not intended for human or animal consumption. The information provided on this page is compiled from published research, veterinary studies, and anecdotal reports for educational purposes. This content does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendations. Any research involving Melanotan I must comply with all applicable local, state, and federal regulations. BioInfinity Lab makes no claims regarding the safety or efficacy of Melanotan I for any purpose. Consult qualified professionals for any research applications.