Melanotan 1 vs Syn-Ake
Side-by-side comparison of key properties, dosing, and research.
Skin & CosmeticSexual Health & Libido
Melanotan 1Skin & CosmeticAnti-Aging & Longevity
Syn-Ake- 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.
- Syn-Ake is a synthetic tripeptide that mimics waglerin-1, a peptide found in the venom of the Temple viper (Tropidolaemus wagleri). It acts as a reversible antagonist of muscular nicotinic acetylcholine receptors, temporarily reducing facial muscle contraction and smoothing dynamic wrinkles. Often called a 'synthetic Botox' in cosmetic marketing.
- Half-Life
- ~40–60 minutes (free peptide); implant formulation (SCENESSE) releases over months
- Not applicable (topical; effect duration hours)
- Admin Route
- SubQ
- Topical
- Research
- —
- —
- Typical Dose
- 0.5–1 mg
- 0.01–0.1% (4–8 mg/g in clinical studies)
- Frequency
- Daily until desired color achieved, then maintenance
- Twice 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 depth of dynamic wrinkles and expression lines
- Reversible muscle-relaxing effect on facial muscles
- Smooths forehead lines, crow's feet, and frown lines
- Non-invasive alternative to injectable neurotoxins
- Rapid onset relative to collagen-stimulating peptides
- Well-studied in in vitro and clinical cosmetic trials
- Side Effects
- Nausea (especially at higher doses)
- Facial flushing
- Fatigue
- Injection site reactions
- +3 more
- Generally very well-tolerated topically
- Rare skin sensitivity or contact dermatitis
- Theoretical neuromuscular effects at systemic doses (not relevant topically)
- Stacks With
- —
- —