Melanotan II (MT2) is a stimulating peptide which induces skin tanning. Melanocyte Stimulating Hormones (MSH) are a class of peptide hormones produced in the intermediate lobe of the pituitary gland that stimulate pigment cells (melanocytes) in the skin and hair to produce and release melanin which leads to darker skin and hair. Melanotan II increases melanin production via stimulation of skin pigment cells called melanocytes.
Melanin is the skin pigment produced that protects our skin from sun’s UV radiation and damage. It could be considered our body’s own natural sunscreen. Low levels of melanin mean that the skin is highly susceptible to DNA damage with excess sun exposure. This lack of melanin and its protection against UV radiation means that those individuals with fair skin have a propensity to burn and risk more DNA damage.
BENEFITS OF A MELANOCYTE STIMULATING HORMONE
The ability to achieve a darker tan with less exposure to UV radiation
Possible reduction in the risk of Melanoma (skin cancer)
A possible reduction in the incidence of sun-damaged skin
Fair skin individuals have the ability to develop a tan through the use of the MT2 peptide.
It can lead to reduction in body fat
No sunburn, No tan lines
No sunless tanning streaks or fake tan removal
It can increase libido
During clinic trials for its use as a tanning agent, melanotan II was found to be a potent stimulator of male erections. It has also been shown to increase female sexual desire in patients with sexual arousal disorder).