Sexual Health / Aesthetics
Melanotan I
MT-1 · Afamelanotide · Scenesse
What it is
Melanotan I (afamelanotide) is the gentler, more predictable cousin of Melanotan II. FDA-approved in 2019 as Scenesse for erythropoietic protoporphyria (a rare light-sensitivity disorder). It produces a smooth tan with much less of the libido / arousal effect that MT-II is famous for. The branded version is a 16 mg subcutaneous implant that releases over ~2 months.
How it works
Selectively activates the MC1 receptor (skin pigmentation) more than MC3/MC4 (brain effects). This is why MT-1 produces a tan without the spontaneous-erection / nausea profile of MT-II.
Benefits
- Year-round tan with reduced UV exposure
- Cleaner side-effect profile than MT-II
- Some skin protection against UV damage
- FDA-approved indication exists (rare disease)
- Less appetite suppression than MT-II
- Less spontaneous arousal effect
Timeline
- Day 1–7
- Loading phase; first pigmentation changes.
- Week 2–4
- Visible tan develops with brief sun exposure.
- Week 4–8
- Maintained pigmentation.
Dosing & titration
Loading dose0.5–1 mg subQ daily for 5–10 days
Maintenance0.5 mg, 1–2x weekly
FDA implant16 mg implant every ~2 months (Scenesse)
When to titrate upMost users do well at 0.5 mg. Don't exceed 1 mg per dose.
Side effects & risks
- Mild nausea (less than MT-II)
- Flushing
- Mole darkening
- Possible new freckle formation
- Headache
Skin check required. Get baseline dermatology exam before starting; any new or changing moles need evaluation.
Typical price
$80–$150/moCompounded MT-1. Scenesse implant is much more expensive but only available for FDA-approved indication.
Studies
- Langendonk JG et al. Afamelanotide for Erythropoietic Protoporphyria — Pivotal NEJM trial. NEJMNEJM, 2015
- Search PubMed for afamelanotide — PubMed searchLive PubMed search
Educational reference only. Not medical advice.