Melanotan 2: Complete Guide to the Tanning Peptide
Comprehensive guide to Melanotan 2 including how it works, dosing protocols, side effects, and safety considerations for this melanocortin receptor agonist.
What is Melanotan 2?
Melanotan 2 (MT-2) is a synthetic analog of alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone (α-MSH). It was developed at the University of Arizona as a potential skin cancer prevention method by stimulating melanin production.
Key Facts
- Type: Melanocortin receptor agonist
- Targets: MC1R, MC3R, MC4R, MC5R receptors
- Primary effect: Increased melanin production
- Secondary effects: Appetite suppression, libido enhancement
- MT-2 binds to melanocortin receptors in melanocytes
- Triggers melanogenesis (melanin production)
- Increased melanin provides darker pigmentation
- Effect can occur without or with minimal UV exposure
- Increased baseline pigmentation
- Enhanced response to UV exposure
- More even tan distribution
- Potentially protective against sunburn
- Appetite reduction
- Increased libido (similar mechanism to PT-141)
- Possible energy changes
- Once desired pigmentation achieved
- Dose: 0.5-1mg
- Frequency: 1-2x weekly
- Adjust based on fading
- Start low to assess tolerance
- Nausea is common initially
- Brief UV exposure enhances effects
- Effects are gradual (weeks to develop)
- Darkening of moles/freckles
- New mole development
- Appetite suppression
- Stretching/yawning
- Not FDA approved for any indication
- Mole monitoring is essential
- Dermatologist checkups recommended before and during use
- UV exposure should be limited, not increased
- History of melanoma or atypical moles
- Family history of skin cancer
- Those with many moles
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
How Melanotan 2 Works
Melanin Stimulation
The Receptor Profile
| Receptor | Effect | |
| MC1R | Tanning, skin pigmentation | |
| MC3R | Energy homeostasis | |
| MC4R | Appetite, sexual function | |
| MC5R | Sebaceous gland function | |
| Week | Dose | Frequency |
| 1 | 0.25mg | Daily |
| 2 | 0.5mg | Daily |
| 3-4 | 0.5-1mg | Daily |
| Effect | Frequency | Management |
| Nausea | Very common | Dose at night, start low |
| Facial flushing | Common | Usually transient |
| Fatigue | Common | Dose at bedtime |
| Increased libido | Common | Expected effect |
| Factor | Melanotan 2 | Natural Tanning |
| UV required | Minimal | Extensive |
| Speed | Faster | Slower |
| Evenness | Often better | Variable |
| Cancer risk | Unknown long-term | Increased UV = increased risk |
| Side effects | Nausea, moles | Sunburn, aging |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long until I see results?
A: Noticeable changes typically appear within 2-3 weeks of consistent use.
Q: Do I still need sun exposure?
A: Minimal exposure (10-20 min) enhances results but isn't strictly required.
Q: Will my freckles get darker?
A: Yes, existing pigmented areas often darken more than surrounding skin.
Q: How long does the tan last?
A: Effects persist 2-4 weeks after stopping, then gradually fade.
Q: Is MT-2 legal?
A: It's not approved for human use but is available for research purposes in most regions.
Conclusion
Melanotan 2 can produce significant tanning effects with minimal UV exposure. However, its effects on moles and the lack of long-term safety data require careful consideration. Anyone using MT-2 should have regular dermatological monitoring and avoid excessive UV exposure.
Track Your Peptide Protocols
Use PeptIQ to log injections, calculate doses, access our peptide library, and optimize your protocols.
Download PeptIQ Free
