Melanotan II vs Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7
A detailed comparison to help you understand the differences and choose the right peptide for your research goals.
Melanotan II
Melanotan II is a synthetic peptide analog of α-MSH with broader receptor activity than Melanotan I. It produces tanning effects and has notable effects on sexual function and appetite suppression.
Full details →Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7
Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 is an anti-inflammatory peptide that reduces IL-6 secretion. Combined with Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, it forms Matrixyl 3000, addressing both collagen production and inflammation.
Full details →Side-by-Side Comparison
| Aspect | Melanotan II | Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 |
|---|---|---|
| Mechanism | Non-selective melanocortin receptor agonist affecting MC1R (tanning), MC3R and MC4R (sexual function and appetite). This broader activity explains its multiple effects beyond tanning. | Suppresses interleukin-6 (IL-6) production, reducing inflammation that contributes to skin aging. The anti-inflammatory effect complements collagen-stimulating peptides. |
| Typical Dosage | Typical protocols: 0.25-0.5mg daily during loading phase for 1-2 weeks, then 0.5-1mg before UV exposure for maintenance. Start low to assess tolerance. | Topical: Usually combined with Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 at similar concentrations (2-4%) in the Matrixyl 3000 complex. |
| Administration | Subcutaneous injection. Usually combined with UV exposure for tanning effects. Nasal spray formulations exist but have lower bioavailability. | Topical application with other anti-aging actives. The palmitoyl group enhances delivery into the skin. |
| Side Effects | Nausea (common initially), facial flushing, spontaneous erections, increased libido, appetite suppression, and mole darkening. | Excellent tolerability profile. Anti-inflammatory properties may actually soothe sensitive skin. |
| Best For |
What They Have in Common
Both Melanotan II and Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 are commonly used for: