Melanotan 1 vs Vilon
Side-by-side comparison of key properties, dosing, and research.
Skin & CosmeticSexual Health & Libido
Melanotan 1Immune SupportAnti-Aging & Longevity
Vilon- 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.
- Vilon is a synthetic dipeptide (Lys-Glu) derived from the thymus gland extract Thymalin. The shortest immune-regulatory peptide known, Vilon modulates T-cell and NK-cell function, extends lifespan in animal models, and shows epigenetic anti-aging activity. It is one of the Khavinson peptide bioregulators.
- Half-Life
- ~40–60 minutes (free peptide); implant formulation (SCENESSE) releases over months
- Very short as a free dipeptide; effects mediated via gene regulation
- Admin Route
- SubQ
- SubQ, Oral
- Research
- —
- —
- Typical Dose
- 0.5–1 mg
- 1–2 mg SC daily or 5–10 mg oral daily
- Frequency
- Daily until desired color achieved, then maintenance
- Once 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
- Immune system modulation and restoration
- Lifespan extension (30–40% in animal studies)
- T-cell and NK-cell activation
- Epigenetic anti-aging activity
- Reduces oxidative stress markers
- Antioxidant gene upregulation
- May prevent age-related immune senescence
- Anti-tumor immune surveillance
- Side Effects
- Nausea (especially at higher doses)
- Facial flushing
- Fatigue
- Injection site reactions
- +3 more
- Excellent safety profile, decades of Russian clinical use
- Rare: mild injection site reaction
- Very rare: mild allergic reaction
- Stacks With
- —
- —