Melanotan-2 is a synthetic analog of alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone (α-MSH). Melanotan-1 functions as a non-selective agonist of melanocortin receptors, showing high affinity for the MC1 receptor. It has approximately 1,000 times greater potency than natural α-MSH in stimulating melanogenesis.
 Melanotan 2 benefits include enhanced skin pigmentation, reduced UV exposure needs, and potential appetite suppression.