Epigen vs Melanotan I
A detailed comparison to help you understand the differences and choose the right peptide for your research goals.
Epigen
Epigen is a member of the epidermal growth factor (EGF) family. It plays roles in skin regeneration and has been studied for wound healing and anti-aging applications.
Full details →Melanotan I
Melanotan I (afamelanotide) is a synthetic analog of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH). It is FDA-approved as Scenesse for erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP), a rare genetic disorder causing severe sun sensitivity.
Full details →Side-by-Side Comparison
| Aspect | Epigen | Melanotan I |
|---|---|---|
| Mechanism | Binds to and activates the EGF receptor (EGFR), promoting cell proliferation, migration, and differentiation. Involved in skin homeostasis and repair processes. | Binds to melanocortin 1 receptors (MC1R) on melanocytes, stimulating eumelanin production. This increases skin pigmentation and provides photoprotection without UV exposure. |
| Typical Dosage | Topical: Typically used at low concentrations (ppm to low %) in cosmetic formulations. Research applications vary. | Clinical: 16mg implant every 2 months. Research protocols for tanning typically use 0.5-1mg daily for loading, then maintenance dosing. |
| Administration | Primarily topical application for skincare. Research may use other routes for systemic effects. | FDA-approved form is a subcutaneous implant. Research use involves subcutaneous injection. Often combined with minimal UV exposure to enhance results. |
| Side Effects | Topical use generally well-tolerated. Theoretical concerns about promoting cell proliferation. | Nausea (especially initially), facial flushing, fatigue, headache, and darkening of existing moles or freckles. |
| Best For |
What They Have in Common
Both Epigen and Melanotan I are commonly used for: