Source comparison
Melanotan-1 Pigmentation: Clinical vs Cosmetic Comparison
Clinical (EPP photoprotection) 16mg implant (1mg/day × 16 days) Minimal. Natural daylight only 10–14 days 21–28 days 8–12 weeks FDA-approved afamelanotide provides measurable photoprotection without requiring intentional UV exposure; minimal erythemal dose inc
This comparison does not assign a generated winner or score.
- Clinical (EPP photoprotection)
- 16mg implant (1mg/day × 16 days)
- Minimal. Natural daylight only
- 10–14 days
- 21–28 days
- 8–12 weeks
- FDA-approved afamelanotide provides measurable photoprotection without requiring intentional UV exposure; minimal erythemal dose increases 2–3× baseline
- Research cosmetic (peptide only)
- 1mg daily × 10–14 days, then 1mg weekly
- None
- 28–35 days
- 8–10 weeks
- Produces subtle, even pigmentation approximately 2–3 shades darker than baseline; lacks the depth of UV-assisted tanning but avoids photodamage
- Research cosmetic (peptide + UV)
- 0.5–1mg daily × 10 days, then 0.5mg 2×/week
- Controlled tanning bed or natural sun 2–3×/week starting day 10
- 7–10 days
- 10–14 weeks
- Synergistic approach yields 30–50% greater pigmentation density than peptide alone; requires strict UV dose control to avoid burns during loading phase
- Low-dose maintenance
- 0.25–0.5mg 2–3×/week (no loading phase)
- Variable. Recreational sun exposure
- 14–21 days
- 35–42 days
- 6–8 weeks
- Slower onset but lower side effect profile; suitable for individuals prioritizing gradual, natural-looking results over rapid darkening