Melanotan 1 vs Epithalon
Side-by-side comparison of key properties, dosing, and research.
Skin & CosmeticSexual Health & Libido
Melanotan 1Anti-Aging & Longevity
Epithalon- Summary
- Melanotan 1 (Afamelanotide) is a synthetic analog of α-MSH that selectively stimulates melanogenesis (tanning) through MC1R activation. It provides UV-independent skin pigmentation and is FDA/EMA-approved under the name SCENESSE for erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP) and vitiligo.
- Epithalon is a synthetic tetrapeptide developed from the pineal gland extract Epithalamin by Russian scientist Dr. Vladimir Khavinson. It is one of the most researched longevity peptides, known for activating telomerase and extending telomere length — the molecular hallmarks of cellular aging.
- Half-Life
- ~40–60 minutes (free peptide); implant formulation (SCENESSE) releases over months
- 2–4 hours
- Admin Route
- SubQ
- SubQ, Sublingual
- Research
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- Typical Dose
- 0.5–1 mg
- 5–10 mg total per cycle
- Frequency
- Daily until desired color achieved, then maintenance
- 0.5–1 mg daily
- Key Benefits
- Induces skin pigmentation/tanning without UV exposure
- Provides photoprotection in photosensitivity conditions (EPP)
- FDA-approved for erythropoietic protoporphyria (SCENESSE)
- Approved in EU for EPP treatment
- Anti-inflammatory via MC1R
- Mild libido enhancement
- Potential skin cancer prevention through melanin protection
- Activates telomerase enzyme, extending telomere length
- May slow cellular and biological aging
- Regulates melatonin production and circadian rhythms
- Improves sleep quality
- Powerful antioxidant properties
- May reduce incidence of age-related diseases
- Supports immune system function
- Studied for cancer prevention properties in animal models
- Side Effects
- Nausea (especially at higher doses)
- Facial flushing
- Fatigue
- Injection site reactions
- +3 more
- Injection site irritation (mild)
- Temporary sleep changes during cycle (usually improves)
- Rare: fatigue
- Stacks With
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