Reform Wellness
Tan Activate (Melanotan I 5mg)

Vitality

Tan Activate (Melanotan I 5mg)

A pigmentation-support peptide explored for gradual tanning response and melanin signalling.

R350

1
  • Includes enough bacteriostatic water to reconstitute this vial, at no extra cost.
  • Courier delivery across South Africa, 2 to 5 business days.
  • Dispatched within 1 to 2 business days with tracking.
  • Supplied for research and educational purposes only.
  • No change-of-mind returns. Anything damaged, faulty or incorrect is replaced or refunded.

Recommended by the Stack Finder in

What the research says

Linear alpha-MSH analogue

Melanotan I

The gentler tanning peptide; its licensed implant form (afamelanotide) is approved for a light-sensitivity disorder.

How it works
Activates melanocortin-1 receptors on melanocytes to increase eumelanin, giving a gradual tan with less UV exposure.
Research status
Afamelanotide is an approved medicine (Scenesse), but the injectable research form here is not that product; tanning trials date from the 1990s.
Cautions
  • Darkens existing moles; not for anyone with a history of melanoma or many atypical moles.
  • Nausea and facial flushing are common early on.

Key studies

  1. Afamelanotide implants reduced pain and increased sun tolerance in people with erythropoietic protoporphyria in phase 3 trials.

    Langendonk JG et al. Afamelanotide for erythropoietic protoporphyria. N Engl J Med. 2015;373:48-59. doi:10.1056/NEJMoa1411481

  2. Subcutaneous injection of the peptide induced tanning in healthy men with minimal UV exposure.

    Levine N et al. Induction of skin tanning by subcutaneous administration of a potent synthetic melanotropin. JAMA. 1991;266:2730-2736. PMID 1658407.

  3. Combined with small doses of solar UV, the peptide increased tanning in volunteers compared with UV alone.

    Dorr RT et al. Effects of a superpotent melanotropic peptide in combination with solar UV radiation on tanning of the skin in human volunteers. Arch Dermatol. 2004;140:827-835. doi:10.1001/archderm.140.7.827

About this product

A pigmentation-support peptide explored for gradual tanning response and melanin signalling.

Melanotan 1 is a synthetic peptide commonly discussed in research and wellness communities for its interaction with the body’s melanocortin system — particularly pathways involved in regulating pigmentation and melanin production.

It is widely explored by individuals seeking a slower, more gradual tanning response while supporting the skin’s natural pigmentation processes.

Unlike stronger melanocortin peptides, Melanotan 1 is generally discussed as a more selective option, often associated with a gentler response profile while still supporting melanin signalling pathways involved in tanning.

Rather than acting as a cosmetic dye or topical bronzer, Melanotan 1 works by supporting pathways linked to natural melanin production — the pigment responsible for skin colour and tanning response.

What Is Melanotan 1?

Melanotan 1 is a laboratory-synthesised peptide designed to mimic naturally occurring melanocyte-stimulating hormones (MSH) found in the body.

These hormones interact with melanocytes — the specialised cells responsible for producing melanin in the skin.

By influencing this signalling pathway, Melanotan 1 is commonly discussed in relation to supporting increased melanin expression and a gradual tanning response when combined with appropriate UV exposure.

Because of its receptor selectivity, Melanotan 1 is often positioned as a more targeted pigmentation-support peptide within melanocortin research.

Research into melanocortin peptides continues, and individual response may vary.

Pigmentation & Tanning Support

Melanotan 1 is commonly explored for its potential role in supporting:

Gradual tanning response

Melanin production support

Pigmentation signalling pathways

More even tanning development

Skin-conscious tanning support

Reduced reliance on prolonged UV exposure in some individuals

Because it works through the body’s own pigmentation pathways, the resulting colour change is often described as progressive, subtle, and cumulative rather than rapid.

Key Benefits

• Supports melanin signalling and pigmentation response
• May assist gradual tanning development
• Explored for more even pigmentation response
• Works through natural melanocortin pathways
• Often discussed as a gentler alternative within tanning peptides
• Used within skin-pigmentation wellness routines

Who Melanotan 1 Is Ideal For

Melanotan 1 may be well suited for individuals who:

• Struggle to tan naturally or burn easily
• Prefer a slower, more gradual tanning response
• Want pigmentation support with a more measured approach
• Prefer a targeted melanocortin peptide
• Are exploring skin-pigmentation wellness support

This peptide is commonly explored by individuals seeking a progressive tanning response that aligns with a more gradual and controlled pigmentation approach.


Product Details

• Peptide: Melanotan 1
• Amount: 5mg pr vial
• Format: Lyophilised (freeze-dried) powder
• Category: Pigmentation | Skin | Aesthetic Support
• Storage: Refrigerate after reconstitution

What You’ll Also Need

This peptide requires reconstitution prior to use. Bacteriostatic water is included with your order for convenience.

• Reconstitution Syringe
• Insulin Syringes
• Alcohol Swabs

These essentials can be added below for convenience.

FAQ

Q: What does Melanotan 1 support?
A: It is commonly explored for supporting melanin production and pigmentation signalling pathways involved in tanning response.

Q: How is Melanotan 1 different from Melanotan 2?
A: Melanotan 1 is generally discussed as a more selective and gradual pigmentation-support peptide, while Melanotan 2 is often associated with stronger overall melanocortin activity.

Q: Does Melanotan 1 work with sun exposure?
A: It is generally discussed in relation to UV exposure, which plays an important role in stimulating melanin activation.

Important Note

This product is intended for research and educational purposes only.
Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before beginning any new peptide protocol.

More in Performance & Vitality