Peptide MT1 (Melanotan I) is an analogue of α-MSH, which stimulates the production of melanin in the skin and enhances skin pigmentation. MT1 and MT2 (Melanotan II) both increase melanin production by activating melanocorticoid receptors in melanocytes, making the skin appear darker and often referred to as "artificial tanning agents." The difference is that MT1 has a relatively mild effect with fewer side effects, and is mainly used to treat photosensitive diseases (such as solar dermatitis), while MT2 has more hormone-related effects, which can be accompanied by side effects such as increased libido.

How does MT1 act on the skin?

MT1 (Melanotan I) is a synthetic analogue of alpha-melanin stimulating hormone that causes skin to darken primarily by stimulating the production of melanin in the skin. The mechanism by which MT1 acts on the skin involves the following steps:

Activate melanocytes

MT1 mimics the alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (alpha-MSH), which binds to the melanocortin-1 receptor (MC1R) on melanocytes in the skin. MC1R is a key receptor on the surface of melanocytes that, when activated, initiates melanin production.

Stimulating melanin synthesis

When MT1 activates melanocytes through the MC1R receptor, these cells begin to increase melanin production. Melanin is a pigment that gives skin, hair and eyes their color. There are two main types of it:

eumelanin: causes the skin to appear brown or black.

pheomelanin: gives the skin a red or yellow hue.

MT1 mainly promotes the production of eumelanin, which makes the skin darker and darker.

Improved UV protection

MT1 increases the level of melanin in the skin, which absorbs ultraviolet (UV) radiation and reduces UV damage to skin cells. While MT1 is not a replacement for sunscreen, it helps to enhance the skin's natural defenses and reduce the risk of sunburn.

Long-lasting natural tanning effect

Unlike UV exposure alone, the tanning effect provided by MT1 is achieved by increasing the amount of melanin in the skin, so the effect is more lasting. Even in the absence of direct sunlight exposure, the skin can maintain a darker color after using MT1.

The need to minimize UV exposure

Because MT1 is able to promote skin darkening in low or even no UV light, it can reduce the need for people to spend long periods of time in the sun, thereby reducing the risk of skin damage and skin cancer caused by UV light.

How long does MT1 last?

The duration of the effects of MT1 (Melanotan I) varies from individual to individual and can usually be maintained for weeks to months. Here are a few key factors that affect the duration of MT1:

Dosage and frequency of use

Frequency of use: If used frequently, the effects of MT1 can be maintained for a longer time. There is usually an initial "loading period" of injections lasting a few days to a few weeks, followed by a maintenance period of weekly or monthly injections to maintain the effect.

Dose: A higher dose usually results in a more significant tan and lasts longer.

Skin type

Skin tone: People with naturally light skin may see a noticeable tan effect after using MT1, but this effect may fade faster after discontinuation. People with darker skin may retain melanin deposits for longer.

Melanin metabolism: The breakdown of melanin and the rate of renewal of new skin cells vary from individual to individual, which also affects the duration of MT1's effects.

Sunlight exposure

Sun exposure: Although MT1 can darken the skin in the absence of sunlight, moderate UV exposure can enhance melanin production, thus extending the duration of the tanning effect. In the case of complete avoidance of sunlight exposure, the effect may fade faster.

Skin cell renewal

Skin metabolism: Skin cells naturally renew every 28-30 days, so with the formation of new skin cells, the deposition of melanin will gradually decrease, and the tanning effect will gradually diminish.

Changes after maintenance and outage

Maintenance period: After using MT1, the effects can last for months if injected regularly to maintain melanin levels.

Fading after discontinuation: Once MT1 is stopped, the melanin in the skin will gradually metabolize and fade. For most people, the effects wear off within 1 to 2 months of stopping use.

What is the difference between MT1 and MT2?

MT1 (Melanotan I) and MT2 (Melanotan II) are both peptides that promote the production of melanin in the skin, but there are some key differences in their structure, mechanism of action, and effects. Here are the main differences:

Structural difference

MT1: is a peptide of alpha-melanotropic hormone (alpha-MSH) specifically designed to increase the production of melanin.

MT2: Also a peptide similar to alpha-MSH, but with a slightly different structure, designed not only to promote melanin production, but also to have additional effects, such as enhancing libido.

Action mechanism

MT1 (Melanotan I) : The main role is to stimulate the production of melanin in melanocytes, helping the skin to darken. Its effect is relatively mild, mainly used to increase the level of melanin in the skin for a long time, and it is not easy to cause other side effects.

MT2 (Melanotan II) : Also by stimulating melanin production, but it not only affects the skin darkening, but also by activating different receptors (MC1R, MC4R, etc.), has an impact on libido and appetite. MT2 has a broader effect, is stronger and faster, but may come with more side effects.

Effect intensity

MT1: The effect is milder, the effect is more focused on the generation of melanin, and the user usually needs a longer time to achieve a significant blackening effect. Suitable for those who wish to darken gently and safely.

MT2: The effect is relatively strong, usually in the short term can significantly increase melanin levels, resulting in a deeper tan effect. At the same time, MT2 is considered to be more efficient than MT1 and requires fewer doses.

Side effect

MT1: Fewer side effects, common side effects include mild reactions at the injection site and temporary nausea. It mainly affects melanin production and does not have a significant effect on other systems, such as libido or appetite.

MT2: Due to its extensive mechanism of action, MT2 may trigger more side effects, such as nausea, vomiting, changes in appetite, and increased libido (by affecting MC4R receptors in the central nervous system). Some users have also reported increased erectile function after using MT2, which is related to its mechanism of action.

Purpose of use

MT1: Commonly used by those who want to darken naturally and safely but do not want a quick or drastic reaction, it is especially suitable for long-term use to increase the skin's ability to resist UV rays.

MT2: Suitable for those who want to darken quickly, while those who have a need for increased sexual desire may also choose MT2. However, since its side effects are more pronounced, some people may choose not to use it because of these adverse effects.

Duration

MT1: The effect is milder and takes longer, but once the desired skin tone is achieved, the effect is maintained for a longer time. Long-term injections are usually needed to maintain the effect.

MT2: The action is stronger and faster, but its effects may also fade faster after discontinuation of use. Dark skin tone is usually achieved with short term use, but needs to be maintained with a maintenance dose.

Sum up

MT1 is milder and is mainly used for skin darkening with fewer side effects, making it suitable for long-term users.

MT2 is more powerful, in addition to melanin production, but also has an impact on libido and appetite, the effect is fast, but more side effects, suitable for people who want to quickly black.

The choice of the two depends on individual needs and tolerance for side effects. If you are only concerned about skin darkening, MT1 may be a better choice; If you want to see results quickly and don't mind side effects such as increased libido, MT2 may be more suitable.