Melanotan-1 vs Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7
A side-by-side research comparison of Melanotan-1 and Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 across mechanism, dosing, half-life, benefits, side effects and research status.
Comparison table
| Attribute | Melanotan-1 | Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 |
|---|---|---|
| Full name | Melanotan-1 (Afamelanotide) | Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 (Pal-GQPR) |
| Category | Skin & Anti-Aging | Skin & Anti-Aging |
| Status | Approved (afamelanotide) / Research compound | Research compound |
| Mechanism | Selectively activates the melanocortin-1 receptor (MC1R) on melanocytes, increasing eumelanin production and providing UV photoprotection and skin darkening. | Inhibits IL-6 release from keratinocytes and reduces inflammation-mediated MMP activation, preserving existing collagen while complementing Pal-GHK collagen building. |
| Molecular weight | 1646.85 Da | 693 Da |
| Half-life | ~1 hour (peptide); implant form is sustained | 8-12 hours (topical) |
| Bioavailability | Subcutaneous injection or sustained-release implant | Good (topical) |
| Typical dose | ~0.5-1 mg per dose (research) | 2-4% in formulation |
| Frequency | Daily loading then maintenance | 1-2x daily |
| Route | Subcutaneous injection | Topical |
Melanotan-1 reported benefits
- Skin tanning with less sun exposure
- UV photoprotection
- Fewer side effects than Melanotan-2
- Approved form for light-sensitivity disorder
Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 reported benefits
- Anti-inflammatory (skin)
- Reduces IL-6
- Prevents collagen degradation
- Combats inflammaging
Related comparisons
Research and educational reference only. Not medical advice.