What is Melanotan-1?
Melanotan-1 (afamelanotide) is a synthetic analogue of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH).
How does Melanotan-1 work?
It activates the melanocortin-1 receptor on pigment cells, increasing production of eumelanin, the skin’s dark protective pigment.
What are researchers studying?
- ●Erythropoietic protoporphyria (light-induced pain)
- ●Vitiligo
- ●Skin photoprotection
Where does the evidence stand?
FDA-approved in 2019 as an implant (Scenesse) for adults with erythropoietic protoporphyria, a rare light-sensitivity disorder.
Quick facts
- Research area
- Melanocortin
- Also known as
- MT1, MT-1, Melanotan I
- Third-party lab results
- 3 published COAs →
- Tested vendors tracking it
- 2 vendors →
Recent peer-reviewed research
The most relevant Melanotan-1 studies from the last three years, via PubMed (U.S. National Library of Medicine).
- Investigation of the stability profile of therapeutic α-MSH analogue: Insights from liquid chromatography-high resolution mass spectrometry analysis of afamelanotideJournal of pharmaceutical and biomedical analysis · 2026 May 15 · PubMed ↗
Compare Melanotan-1
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This guide summarizes published research for educational purposes only. It is not medical advice and does not describe how to use Melanotan-1. Citations link to PubMed and are listed for reference — we haven't reviewed or endorsed their findings. Products referenced on The Peptide Audit are sold by third parties for laboratory research use only and are not for human consumption.