Melanotan 1 (also known as MT-1 or Afamelanotide) is a synthetic analog of the naturally occurring \(\alpha \)-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (\(\alpha \)-MSH). Primarily utilized to stimulate melanin production in the skin, it is primarily used for sunless tanning and to provide photoprotection against ultraviolet (UV) radiation.
 
How It Works
Mechanism: MT-1 is a non-selective melanocortin receptor agonist. By mimicking \(\alpha \)-MSH, it binds to the melanocortin 1 receptors (MC1R) on melanocytes, promoting melanogenesis (the production of melanin).
Structural Difference: It consists of 13 amino acids. It differs from the natural hormone by two amino acid substitutions, which makes the synthetic peptide highly resistant to breakdown in the body and increases its half-life.
Results: When combined with exposure to sunlight or UV-B light, it promotes a gradual, deeper tan while lowering the number of sunburn cells. Visible changes typically occur within two to four weeks of consistent use.