Melanotan 1 vs Selank
Side-by-side comparison of key properties, dosing, and research.
Skin & CosmeticSexual Health & Libido
Melanotan 1Cognitive Enhancement
Selank- 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.
- Selank is a synthetic heptapeptide analog of tuftsin developed in Russia. It is a potent anxiolytic that reduces anxiety and enhances cognitive function without sedation or addiction. It is approved for clinical use in Russia for anxiety disorders.
- Half-Life
- ~40–60 minutes (free peptide); implant formulation (SCENESSE) releases over months
- Minutes (but effects persist for hours)
- Admin Route
- SubQ
- SubQ, Intranasal
- Research
- —
- —
- Typical Dose
- 0.5–1 mg
- 250–500 mcg
- Frequency
- Daily until desired color achieved, then maintenance
- 1–3 times 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
- Reduces anxiety without sedation
- Enhances memory and learning
- Improves focus and concentration
- Stabilizes mood
- Reduces physiological stress response
- May enhance motivation
- No addiction potential or withdrawal
- Fast-acting — effects within 20–30 minutes
- Approved clinically in Russia for anxiety disorders
- Side Effects
- Nausea (especially at higher doses)
- Facial flushing
- Fatigue
- Injection site reactions
- +3 more
- Mild sedation at higher doses (paradoxical)
- Fatigue (rare)
- Irritability during discontinuation (uncommon)
- Stacks With
- —
- —