Frequently asked questions
A COMPLETE GUIDE TO MELANOTAN II
How Melanotan 2 Works
MT2 operates through melanocortin receptor activation, affecting multiple physiological systems.
The Melanocortin System:
Alpha-MSH (α-MSH):
- Natural hormone from pituitary
- Regulates skin pigmentation
- Controls appetite and metabolism
- Affects sexual function
- Short half-life (minutes)
Melanotan 2 = Synthetic α-MSH Analog:
- Modified for stability and potency
- Longer half-life (hours)
- More potent receptor activation
- Multiple receptor subtypes affected
- Practical for exogenous use
The Five Melanocortin Receptors:
MC1R (Melanocortin 1 Receptor):
- Located on melanocytes (skin pigment cells)
- Controls melanin production
- This creates the tanning effect
- Also affects hair color
- Primary target for tanning benefits
MC2R:
- ACTH receptor (adrenal glands)
- MT2 has minimal effect
- Not significantly activated
MC3R & MC4R:
- Brain receptors (hypothalamus)
- Control appetite and metabolism
- This creates appetite suppression
- Affects energy expenditure
- Similar to PT-141's mechanism
MC5R:
- Sebaceous glands, other tissues
- Less understood functions
- Contributes to overall effects
The Tanning Mechanism (MC1R Activation):
How melanin production works:
Normal process:
- UV exposure damages skin
- Skin releases α-MSH (protective response)
- α-MSH activates MC1R on melanocytes
- Melanocytes produce melanin (protective pigment)
- Melanin absorbs UV, protects DNA
- Skin darkens (tan)
MT2's effect:
- MT2 injection activates MC1R directly
- Melanocytes produce melanin WITHOUT UV damage
- Gradual melanin accumulation
- Skin darkening over days/weeks
- UV exposure accelerates dramatically (but not required)
Key advantages:
- Tan without UV damage
- More melanin = better UV protection
- Natural-looking gradual development
- Lasts weeks after stopping
Important: MT2 creates REAL melanin, not superficial color like spray tans.
Tanning Response Factors:
Baseline skin type matters enormously:
Skin Type I (Very Fair):
- Red/blonde hair, very pale, burns easily
- MINIMAL MT2 response (few melanocytes)
- May not tan significantly
- Should NOT expect dramatic results
- Higher side effect sensitivity
Skin Type II (Fair):
- Light hair/skin, burns easily, tans minimally
- Modest MT2 response
- Gradual tanning possible
- Realistic expectations needed
Skin Type III (Medium):
- Brown hair, tans gradually
- GOOD MT2 response
- Noticeable darkening
- Best candidates
Skin Type IV+ (Olive/Darker):
- Already tan naturally
- Still responds but less dramatic change
- Maintenance of color easier
The lighter your natural skin, the less dramatic MT2's effects.
UV Synergy:
MT2 alone:
- Creates melanin production
- Gradual skin darkening
- Takes weeks for noticeable color
- Subtle to moderate tanning
MT2 + UV exposure:
- DRAMATICALLY accelerates tanning
- Deeper, richer color achieved
- Faster visible results
- Synergistic effect (1+1=3)
Most users combine MT2 with controlled UV (sunbeds, natural sun) for best results.
Appetite Suppression (MC4R Activation):
Mechanism:
- MC4R in hypothalamus regulates hunger/satiety
- MT2 activation reduces appetite significantly
- Enhanced satiety after eating
- Reduced food-seeking behavior
- Similar pathway to obesity medications
Timeline:
- Appetite reduction within hours of injection
- Strongest during loading phase
- Persists throughout use
- Returns to baseline when stopping
This makes MT2 useful for fat loss independent of tanning goals.
Libido Enhancement:
Similar to PT-141:
- Both activate melanocortin receptors
- MT2 affects sexual function pathways
- Increased libido common (especially men)
- Enhanced arousal and function
- PT-141 is actually derivative of MT2
For women:
- Some report increased libido
- Effects more subtle than PT-141
- Individual variation significant
- Secondary benefit, not primary use
Mole and Freckle Darkening:
Important consideration:
- MT2 darkens ALL melanin-producing cells
- Existing moles darken significantly
- New freckles may appear
- This is expected, not dangerous per se
- BUT makes monitoring for skin cancer changes more difficult
Critical safety issue - see safety section below.
Primary Uses & Applications
1. Cosmetic Tanning (Primary Use)
For sun-free skin darkening:
Who uses MT2 for tanning:
- Fair-skinned individuals wanting color
- Those avoiding UV damage
- Preparing for events (weddings, vacations, competitions)
- Maintaining tan year-round without sun
- Bodybuilders/fitness competitors
Realistic tanning expectations:
Skin Type II-III:
- Noticeable darkening over 2-4 weeks
- Natural-looking gradual tan
- 2-3 shades darker typical
- Enhanced with UV exposure
Skin Type I:
- Minimal response common
- May achieve slight golden tone
- Not dramatic dark tan
- Manage expectations
Advantages over UV tanning:
- No UV damage (photoaging, cancer risk)
- More controlled, gradual
- Lasts longer (melanin stable)
- Year-round maintenance possible
2. Photoprotection (Original Intent)
For UV damage prevention:
Theory:
- Increased melanin provides natural SPF
- Protects DNA from UV damage
- Reduces sunburn susceptibility
- May reduce skin cancer risk
Evidence:
- Melanin does protect against UV
- MT2 users burn less easily
- Long-term cancer prevention unproven
- Not FDA-approved for this indication
Current understanding:
PRODUCT CERTIFICATES
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How does Melanotan 2 create a tan?
MT2 activates MC1R receptors on melanocytes (pigment cells), stimulating melanin production - the same protective pigment created by sun exposure. Creates REAL melanin and genuine tan that develops gradually over weeks. Unlike spray tans (superficial color), MT2 produces authentic skin darkening. UV exposure dramatically accelerates and intensifies results, though tan develops without sun.
How long until I see tanning results?
Timeline varies by skin type and UV exposure. Without UV: 3-4 weeks for noticeable color, 4-8 weeks for significant tan. With UV (2-3x weekly sunbeds): 1-2 weeks visible change, 3-4 weeks dramatic results. Very fair skin (Type I): minimal response regardless. Patience essential - this is gradual process, not instant transformation.
Will Melanotan 2 work on very pale/fair skin?
Limited results on Skin Type I (very fair, red/blonde hair, always burns). These individuals have fewer melanocytes capable of responding. May achieve slight golden tone but not dramatic dark tan. Skin Types II-III respond best. Manage expectations based on natural skin type - if you never tan naturally, MT2 has limited raw material to work with.
Does MT2 cause nausea and how can I prevent it?
YES - nausea very common (70%+ of users) especially during loading phase. Prevention: Start low dose (100-250mcg), dose before bed (sleep through nausea), eat light meal before injection, use anti-nausea medication (ondansetron/ginger). Good news: tolerance develops rapidly - nausea significantly improves after first week. Most adapt within 7-10 days.
Will MT2 darken my moles and is this dangerous?
YES - universal effect. MT2 darkens ALL melanocytes including moles and freckles. Not inherently dangerous BUT makes monitoring for melanoma (skin cancer) changes more difficult. CRITICAL: Get baseline dermatologist exam, document all moles before starting, monitor monthly for changes. If personal/family melanoma history or many atypical moles: DO NOT USE MT2.
Do I need sun exposure or does MT2 work alone?
Works both ways. MT2 alone: Creates gradual tan without sun (weeks for results). MT2 + UV: DRAMATICALLY faster and darker (synergistic effect). Most users combine MT2 with controlled UV exposure (short sunbed sessions 2-3x weekly) for best results. Advantage: achieve deeper tan with LESS total UV than traditional tanning.
How much weight will I lose from MT2's appetite suppression?
Highly variable. MT2 causes significant appetite reduction (MC4R activation), but weight loss depends on resulting caloric deficit. If appetite suppression leads to 300-500 calorie daily deficit: 1-2 lbs weekly loss possible. Not direct fat burner - works through reduced intake. Less potent than GLP-1s (semaglutide) but still noticeable for most.
How long does the tan last after I stop MT2?
Tan fades very slowly - melanin is stable pigment. Gradual fading over 3-6 months as skin naturally turns over. Can maintain indefinitely with occasional maintenance dosing (250-500mcg once or twice weekly). Tan lasts much longer than spray tans (days) or UV tans without maintenance (weeks).
Can I use MT2 year-round or do I need to cycle?
Both approaches work. Cycling: Load for 4-8 weeks, maintain with 1-2x weekly dosing indefinitely, or stop completely and reload when tan fades. Continuous: Load initially then maintain year-round for constant color. No medical requirement to cycle. Most maintain year-round if wanting consistent tan. Safety of indefinite use unknown (no long-term studies).
Is Melanotan 2 safe and will it cause skin cancer?
Honest answer: long-term safety unknown - no extensive studies exist. Theory: MT2 might be protective (more melanin = UV protection) but also concern about chronic melanocyte stimulation. No evidence it CAUSES cancer, but darkening moles makes DETECTING changes difficult. Not FDA-approved. User assumes unknown risks. Contraindicated if melanoma risk factors.
Can I combine MT2 with other peptides or medications?
Generally safe combinations: GLP-1s (appetite suppression synergy), BPC-157/other peptides (different mechanisms), standard medications. No known dangerous interactions. MT2 doesn't affect hormones or major systems. If on medications or medical conditions, inform doctor. Birth control, common meds generally compatible.
How does MT2 affect libido and is it similar to PT-141?
Yes - MT2 and PT-141 both melanocortin agonists affecting sexual function pathways. PT-141 is actually derivative of MT2. MT2 commonly increases libido (more pronounced in men, variable in women). Not primary purpose but common side effect. If seeking libido enhancement specifically, PT-141 more targeted. MT2 provides tanning + libido effects.
Will my tan look natural or fake/orange?
Natural - MT2 creates real melanin, not superficial dye. Gradual development looks authentic. Even distribution across body. No orange tone (unlike spray tans). Result indistinguishable from natural tan. Freckles/moles darken proportionally which can be cosmetically concerning for some but confirms authenticity.
Can I use MT2 while trying to conceive, pregnant, or breastfeeding?
NO. Not studied in pregnancy or breastfeeding. Unknown effects on fetal development. Effects on fertility unknown. Do not use if trying to conceive, pregnant, or nursing. Wait until completely finished with reproductive period to use MT2.
⚠️ Important Legal & Safety Information
Regulatory Status:
This product is sold for research purposes. Melanotan 2 is NOT approved by TGA (Australia) or FDA (USA) for any medical use. Originally researched for photoprotection but development discontinued. It is a research peptide. By purchasing, you acknowledge this product is intended for research use.
Development History:
MT2 developed from melanocortin research for skin protection and cancer prevention. Clinical trials for EPP (erythropoietic protoporphyria) and photoprotection. Development not pursued to FDA approval. Regulatory agencies have issued warnings about unapproved melanotan products. No quality control or safety oversight for research versions.
Critical Safety Warning - Skin Cancer Monitoring:
MOST IMPORTANT MT2 SAFETY CONCERN:
MT2 darkens all melanocytes including moles. This makes detecting melanoma (deadly skin cancer) changes significantly more difficult. Melanoma often begins in existing moles or appears as new dark spots.
MANDATORY Safety Protocols:
- Baseline dermatologist exam before starting
- Document all moles (photos, mapping)
- Monthly self-skin examinations
- Immediate medical evaluation for any suspicious changes
- Annual dermatologist follow-up minimum
DO NOT USE if:
- Personal history of melanoma
- Family history of melanoma (first-degree relatives)
- Many moles (>50) or atypical moles
- Very fair skin with high burn risk
- Unwilling/unable to monitor skin diligently
Medical Disclaimer:
MT2 affects melanin production and appetite regulation. Consultation with healthcare provider recommended before use, especially if history of: Skin cancers or conditions, Cardiovascular disease, Any serious medical condition.
Unknown Long-Term Risks:
No long-term safety studies exist. Effects of chronic melanocyte stimulation over years/decades unknown. Theoretical risks exist but are unproven. Regulatory approval never pursued due to insufficient safety/efficacy data. Users assume all unknown risks.
Realistic Expectations:
MT2 creates gradual tan over weeks, NOT instant dramatic darkening. Fair skin (Type I) has minimal response. Results depend heavily on natural skin type and UV exposure. Side effects (nausea, flushing) common initially but improve with tolerance.
Women who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning pregnancy should NOT use Melanotan 2.
Must be 18+ to purchase. Users assume all responsibility for handling and use.
Appropriate Use:
MT2 used for cosmetic tanning and appetite suppression. Loading phase (daily dosing 2-4 weeks) followed by maintenance (1-2x weekly). Best results achieved combining MT2 with controlled UV exposure. Requires diligent skin monitoring and realistic expectations based on natural skin type.
SHIPPING AND RETURNS
Shipping: Australia Post Express. Orders fulfilled within 24 hours of payment confirmation. Delivery: 2-5 business days Australia-wide. Tracking provided.
Returns: Due to the temperature-sensitive nature of research peptides, we cannot accept returns once shipped. We offer replacements for damaged, incorrect, or lost parcels. Please contact us within 48 hours of delivery for any issues.