Melanotan 1 vs TB-500
Side-by-side comparison of key properties, dosing, and research.
Skin & CosmeticSexual Health & Libido
Melanotan 1Recovery & Repair
TB-500- 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.
- TB-500 is a synthetic fragment of Thymosin Beta-4, a naturally occurring peptide found in nearly all human and animal cells. It promotes cell migration to injury sites, accelerates tissue regeneration, and reduces chronic inflammation.
- Half-Life
- ~40–60 minutes (free peptide); implant formulation (SCENESSE) releases over months
- 2–3 hours
- Admin Route
- SubQ
- SubQ, IM
- Research
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- Typical Dose
- 0.5–1 mg
- 2–2.5 mg
- Frequency
- Daily until desired color achieved, then maintenance
- Twice weekly
- 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
- Enhances muscle tissue regeneration
- Accelerates healing of wounds and injuries
- Reduces inflammation and pain
- Improves flexibility and mobility
- Promotes new blood vessel formation
- Supports hair growth and skin health
- May improve cardiac function after injury
- Systemic healing effect — works at distance from injection site
- Side Effects
- Nausea (especially at higher doses)
- Facial flushing
- Fatigue
- Injection site reactions
- +3 more
- Injection site discomfort
- Fatigue (rare)
- Headache (rare)
- Stacks With
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