What Is MT2? Melanotan 2 Explained
Melanotan 2, commonly called MT2, is a synthetic peptide associated with increased skin pigmentation. Here is what it does, why people use it and where it stands legally in Australia.
What is Melanotan 2?
Melanotan 2 is a laboratory made peptide designed to act in a similar way to a naturally occurring hormone called alpha melanocyte stimulating hormone.
This hormone plays a role in the production of melanin. Melanin is the pigment that gives colour to your skin, hair and eyes.
By interacting with melanocortin receptors in the body, MT2 may encourage pigment producing cells to create more melanin. This can cause the skin to become darker.
MT2 signals the body to produce more skin pigment. It does not colour the skin directly like a fake tan.
Why do people use MT2?
MT2 is mainly known for its association with skin tanning. People commonly seek it out because they want to develop or maintain darker skin pigmentation with less ultraviolet exposure.
Other effects are also frequently reported because MT2 can interact with several different melanocortin receptors throughout the body.
A darker appearance does not provide complete protection from ultraviolet radiation. Sun protection is still necessary.
Is MT2 legal in Australia?
The Therapeutic Goods Administration states that there are currently no products containing Melanotan 2 included on the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods.
This means MT2 products sold as tanning injections, nasal sprays or similar consumer products have not been approved by the TGA for that purpose.
It also means these products have not gone through the standard Australian assessment process for quality, safety and effectiveness.
What does prescription only mean?
Melanotan 2 is classified as a Schedule 4 substance. Schedule 4 medicines generally require a valid prescription and must be supplied through an authorised pathway.
Selling or supplying MT2 to Australian consumers without the required authority may be unlawful. State and territory laws can also affect possession and supply.
Labelling a product as being for research purposes does not automatically make its supply legal when it is being sold or promoted for personal use.
Is MT2 approved by the TGA?
No. MT2 is not approved by the TGA as a tanning treatment.
The TGA has warned Australians about unapproved tanning products containing melanotan. Its concerns include unknown ingredients, contamination, incorrect product strength and a lack of reliable safety information.
This does not mean every vial contains something harmful. It means the product has not been independently assessed through Australia’s normal medicine approval system.
MT2 frequently asked questions
Are MT2 and Melanotan 2 the same thing?
Yes. MT2, MT II and Melanotan 2 are common names for Melanotan II.
Is MT2 the same as Melanotan 1?
No. They are separate compounds. Melanotan 1 is more selective in how it interacts with melanocortin receptors, while MT2 interacts with several receptor types.
Does MT2 work without sunlight?
MT2 may increase pigmentation without significant ultraviolet exposure, although responses vary. Some users still combine it with sunlight or tanning beds, which adds the known risks of ultraviolet exposure.
Does MT2 protect against sunburn?
It should not be treated as sun protection. Sunscreen, protective clothing and sensible ultraviolet exposure remain important.
Can MT2 make moles darker?
Changes in existing freckles and moles have been reported. Any new, changing or unusual skin lesion should be assessed by a qualified health professional.
The bottom line
Melanotan 2 is a synthetic peptide that may increase the body’s production of skin pigment. It is mainly known for tanning, although it can produce effects elsewhere in the body.
In Australia, MT2 is prescription only and is not approved by the TGA as a tanning product. Products sold online may not have been assessed for identity, purity, strength or sterility.
Anyone considering or already using an unapproved melanotan product should discuss it honestly with a qualified Australian health professional.