Melanotan 1 vs Thymulin
Side-by-side comparison of key properties, dosing, and research.
Skin & CosmeticSexual Health & Libido
Melanotan 1Immune Support
Thymulin- 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.
- Thymulin is a nonapeptide hormone produced exclusively by the thymic epithelium. It requires zinc for biological activity and plays a critical role in T-lymphocyte maturation, differentiation, and immune regulation. Thymulin levels decline dramatically with age, contributing to immunosenescence.
- Half-Life
- ~40–60 minutes (free peptide); implant formulation (SCENESSE) releases over months
- ~30 minutes active half-life
- Admin Route
- SubQ
- SubQ
- Research
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- Typical Dose
- 0.5–1 mg
- 20-30 mcg
- Frequency
- Daily until desired color achieved, then maintenance
- 10 days per month (Khavinson protocol)
- 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 T-cell maturation and differentiation
- Boosts NK cell cytotoxic activity
- Reduces inflammatory cytokine production (TNF-α, IL-1)
- Anti-nociceptive (pain-reducing) properties
- Restores age-related immune decline
- Anti-inflammatory via serotonin pathway modulation
- Side Effects
- Nausea (especially at higher doses)
- Facial flushing
- Fatigue
- Injection site reactions
- +3 more
- Injection site reactions
- Mild fatigue initially as immune system activates
- Stacks With
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