Comparison
Melanotan I vs Melanotan II
FDA-approved photoprotection vs underground tanning peptide.
Reviewed by Dr. Sarah Mitchell, PharmD
Selectivity
MC1R selective
Non-selective (MC1R–MC5R)
FDA Status
FDA/EMA approved (Scenesse)
Not approved
Tanning Effect
Moderate, gradual
Strong, rapid
Sexual Side Effects
None
Common (arousal, erections)
Appetite Effects
None
Suppression common
Nausea
Mild
Common, especially initially
Administration
Subcutaneous implant
Subcutaneous injection
Half-Life
~30 minutes
~1 hour
Our Verdict
Melanotan I is FDA/EMA-approved and selectively targets MC1R for safe tanning. Melanotan II is non-selective, producing tanning plus significant side effects (nausea, erections, appetite changes). MT-I is medically safer; MT-II is more commonly used underground.