Melanotan 2
A synthetic analogue of alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone used to promote skin tanning and libido.
Common Dosage
250mcg - 500mcg (titrated carefully)
Category
Tanning
- Skin tanning
- Libido enhancement
- Appetite suppression
Melanotan 2 (MT-2) was developed at the University of Arizona in the 1980s–90s during research into melanocortin receptor agonists for potential skin cancer prevention through tanning induction. The original hypothesis was that reliable, easy tanning could reduce UV exposure time needed for a tan, thereby reducing sunburn-associated DNA damage. During trials, researchers discovered significant libido-enhancing effects — a finding that led to the development of PT-141 as a separate derivative. MT-2 itself was not approved due to its broad melanocortin activity profile.
MT-2 is a cyclic analogue of α-MSH that acts as a non-selective agonist at melanocortin receptors 1–5. MC1R activation in melanocytes stimulates melanin production and darkening of skin and hair. MC3R and MC4R activation in the hypothalamus produces appetite suppression and sexual arousal effects. MC2R is the ACTH receptor (responsible for cortisol stimulation), which MT-2 also partially activates — an important consideration for cortisol-sensitive users.
- Skin tanning induction without UV exposure
- Sexual dysfunction research (particularly in women)
- Appetite suppression and weight management research
- Erythropoietic protoporphyria (EP) — rare approved use as Scenesse in some countries
- Melanoma protective research (original motivation)
Rapid Tanning in Light-Skinned Individuals
Users with Fitzpatrick skin types I–II (very fair, burn-prone) consistently report achieving tan skin tones they cannot achieve with UV exposure alone. The effect is cumulative with loading doses and maintained with infrequent maintenance dosing.
Scenesse Approval for EP
Afamelanotide (Scenesse), a closely related melanocortin agonist, received EMA approval for erythropoietic protoporphyria — validating the melanocortin pathway for photosensitivity conditions and providing some pharmacological precedent.
- Mole and nevus darkening is consistent and documented — existing moles may darken significantly, making melanoma surveillance more difficult
- New mole formation has been reported in some users — any new pigmented lesion warrants dermatological evaluation
- Nausea and flushing are common, particularly at the beginning — the titration approach is essential
- Spontaneous erections in males are common and can be uncomfortable or socially problematic
- Facial flushing and blushing reactions
- Yawning episodes
- Not approved for tanning use in any jurisdiction — regulatory risk
- Long-term melanocyte stimulation effects on melanoma risk are not established
- Nausea
- Flushing
- Darkening of moles