Core Molecular Specs & Technical Index

Melanotan peptide refers to a class of synthetic analogs of the naturally occurring melanocortin hormone, specifically designed to stimulate melanogenesis. The two primary variants, Melanotan I (Afamelanotide) and Melanotan II, are linear and cyclic peptides, respectively, with distinct molecular weights and receptor binding affinities. These peptides are primarily utilized in dermatological research and cosmetic formulation development for their ability to induce skin pigmentation without UV exposure. The core value for B2B buyers lies in their high purity, batch-to-batch consistency, and verified stability profiles, which are critical for reproducible research outcomes and safe product formulation.

• Purity Standard: Minimum 98% purity verified by HPLC, with premium grades offering >99% for clinical-grade research.
• Molecular Weight: Melanotan I (Afamelanotide) at 1646.9 Da; Melanotan II at 1024.2 Da, influencing solubility and administration routes.
• Solubility: Freely soluble in sterile water or bacteriostatic water for injection; recommended reconstitution at 1-2 mg/mL for optimal stability.
• Storage Conditions: Lyophilized powder stable for 24 months at -20°C; reconstituted solution must be used within 7 days at 2-8°C.
• pH Stability: Optimal pH range of 4.5-5.5 for injection solutions; avoid alkaline conditions to prevent peptide degradation.

Industry data from the 2025 Peptide Therapeutics Report indicates that the global melanotan peptide market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 8.3% through 2026, driven by increasing demand for UV-free tanning solutions and dermatological research in photoprotection. Over 60% of bulk peptide buyers now require third-party COA verification before purchase.

Manufacturing & Quality Control

The production of melanotan peptide involves solid-phase peptide synthesis (SPPS) using Fmoc chemistry, followed by cleavage, purification, and lyophilization. Quality control is paramount in B2B transactions, as impurities can significantly alter biological activity and safety profiles. Reputable manufacturers implement rigorous in-process controls and final product testing to ensure compliance with international standards.

• Production Process: Automated SPPS with real-time monitoring of coupling efficiency; final cleavage using TFA-based cocktails with scavengers to minimize side reactions.
• Purification: Preparative HPLC with C18 columns, achieving baseline separation of target peptide from truncated sequences and oxidation byproducts.
• Third-Party Testing: Independent laboratories verify purity, peptide content, endotoxin levels (<0.5 EU/mg), and sterility for injectable-grade products.
• Certification List: GMP compliance certificate, ISO 9001:2015 quality management, MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet), and batch-specific COA with chromatograms.

Commercial Application Scenarios

Melanotan peptide serves diverse commercial applications across cosmetic formulation, laboratory research, and bulk wholesale distribution. Each scenario demands specific product specifications and documentation to meet regulatory and operational requirements.

• Cosmetic Formulation: Incorporated into topical serums and injectable tanning solutions at concentrations of 0.5-2 mg/mL. Formulators require peptides with verified solubility and compatibility with common excipients like hyaluronic acid and glycerin.
• Lab Research: Used in melanogenesis studies, UV protection assays, and receptor binding experiments. Researchers demand high-purity (>99%) peptides with detailed analytical data for publication-grade results.
• Bulk Wholesale: Distributors purchase 10-100 gram quantities for regional resale. Key requirements include stable lyophilized form, long shelf life, and comprehensive documentation for customs clearance and regulatory compliance.

melanotan peptide VS Ordinary Low-Grade Peptides

Bulk Purchase Selection Guide

Selecting a reliable supplier for melanotan peptide requires careful evaluation of product quality, documentation, and logistical capabilities. Common pitfalls include purchasing peptides with undisclosed impurities, inadequate storage conditions during transit, and insufficient regulatory paperwork. A systematic approach ensures cost-effective and compliant procurement.

• Common Pitfalls: Buying based solely on price; ignoring endotoxin levels; accepting peptides without third-party COA; failing to verify storage conditions during shipping.
• Selection Standards: Require batch-specific HPLC chromatograms; verify GMP certification through third-party audits; request stability data under recommended storage conditions.
• Buyer Checklist: Confirm purity ≥98%; request endotoxin and sterility test results; verify peptide content (not just gross weight); check for residual solvents and TFA content; ensure proper lyophilization appearance (white to off-white powder).

Core Product Advantages

Our melanotan peptide products are engineered to meet the stringent demands of B2B buyers, offering superior purity, stability, and cost performance. Technical support from experienced peptide chemists ensures seamless integration into research protocols and formulation processes.

• Purity: Guaranteed ≥99% by HPLC with full impurity profiling, minimizing batch-to-batch variability and ensuring reproducible results.
• Stability: Optimized lyophilization process preserves peptide integrity for 24 months at -20°C, reducing waste and inventory management costs.
• Cost Performance: Competitive pricing for bulk orders (10g+), with volume discounts up to 30% for long-term contracts.
• Technical Support: Access to formulation guides, reconstitution protocols, and regulatory documentation assistance from PhD-level scientists.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the difference between Melanotan I and Melanotan II in terms of research applications?
Melanotan I (Afamelanotide) has a longer half-life and is primarily used in photoprotection studies, while Melanotan II has a shorter duration but higher potency for melanogenesis induction. Researchers select based on desired pharmacokinetic profile and specific study endpoints.

Q: How should melanotan peptide be stored to maintain stability during bulk distribution?
Lyophilized melanotan peptide must be stored at -20°C in airtight, light-resistant containers. During shipping, use insulated packaging with dry ice or gel packs to maintain temperature below -15°C. Reconstituted solutions require refrigeration at 2-8°C and use within 7 days.

Q: What documentation is required for importing melanotan peptide for research purposes?
Importers typically need a Certificate of Analysis (COA) with purity and identity data, Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS), GMP certificate from the manufacturer, and a research use statement. Customs regulations vary by country, so consulting a customs broker is recommended.

Core Molecular Specs & Technical Index

Melanotan peptide is a synthetic analog of the naturally occurring alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH), designed for laboratory research and cosmetic raw material applications. This peptide is primarily sought after by B2B buyers including contract research organizations, cosmetic formulation labs, and bulk raw material distributors for its well-documented melanocortin receptor binding properties. The core value of melanotan peptide lies in its high purity grade, consistent batch-to-batch reproducibility, and specialized manufacturing protocols that ensure stability during formulation and long-term storage.

Core Molecular Specs & Technical Index

Understanding the technical specifications of melanotan peptide is essential for laboratory procurement and quality assurance. The following parameters define the standard for research-grade material.

Basic Properties

• Molecular Formula: C50H69N15O9 (for Melanotan II variant) with a molecular weight of approximately 1024.2 g/mol.
• Appearance: White to off-white lyophilized powder, free-flowing and free of visible aggregates.
• Solubility: Soluble in water, saline, or PBS at concentrations up to 10 mg/mL; recommended reconstitution with sterile bacteriostatic water.
• Purity Grade: Minimum 98% as determined by HPLC (High-Performance Liquid Chromatography), with typical batches achieving 99.0%–99.5%.
• Storage Conditions: Lyophilized powder stable at -20°C for 24 months; reconstituted solution stable at 2–8°C for up to 14 days.

Industry data from the Peptide Research Association (2023) indicates that laboratories sourcing melanotan peptide with ≥99% purity experience 40% fewer formulation inconsistencies compared to those using lower-grade materials, directly impacting experimental reproducibility and product development timelines.

Manufacturing & Quality Control

The production of high-purity melanotan peptide involves a multi-step process that ensures batch consistency and contaminant removal. Reliable manufacturers adhere to strict Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) guidelines and employ advanced analytical techniques.

Production Process

Solid-phase peptide synthesis (SPPS) is the standard method for manufacturing melanotan peptide. This process involves sequential addition of protected amino acids to a resin support, followed by cleavage and deprotection. Key steps include:

• Chain Assembly: Automated synthesizers couple Fmoc-protected amino acids with high coupling efficiency (>99% per step).
• Cleavage & Deprotection: Trifluoroacetic acid (TFA) based cleavage removes side-chain protecting groups and releases the peptide from the resin.
• Purification: Preparative HPLC using C18 reverse-phase columns achieves target purity of ≥98%.
• Lyophilization: Controlled freeze-drying removes solvents while preserving peptide integrity.
• Third-Party Testing: Independent laboratories verify purity, endotoxin levels, and mass spectrometry identity.

Certification List

• Certificate of Analysis (CoA) with HPLC chromatogram and purity percentage.
• Mass spectrometry (MS) confirmation of molecular weight.
• Endotoxin testing (≤1 EU/mg) for research-grade material.
• Residual solvent analysis per ICH Q3C guidelines.
• Stability data under recommended storage conditions.

Commercial Application Scenarios

Melanotan peptide serves diverse commercial roles across cosmetic formulation, laboratory research, and bulk wholesale distribution. Each application demands specific quality attributes and supply chain considerations.

Cosmetic Formulation

In cosmetic raw material supply, melanotan peptide is incorporated into topical serums and creams designed for skin pigmentation research. Formulators require high-purity peptide to ensure consistent dispersion and stability in oil-in-water emulsions. Typical usage concentrations range from 0.01% to 0.1% w/w, with compatibility testing for pH (5.0–6.5) and preservative systems.

Lab Research

Research laboratories utilize melanotan peptide for in vitro and in vivo studies focusing on melanocortin receptor activation, melanogenesis pathways, and cellular signaling. Bulk orders of 100 mg to 10 g are common, with demand for certified purity and detailed analytical data to support publication-grade results.

Bulk Wholesale Usage

Wholesale buyers, including peptide distributors and contract manufacturers, require melanotan peptide in kilogram quantities. Key considerations include batch-to-batch consistency, competitive pricing per gram, and reliable logistics for cold-chain shipping. Suppliers offering custom packaging (e.g., 1 g, 5 g, 10 g vials) and expedited delivery gain competitive advantage.

melanotan peptide VS Ordinary Low-Grade Peptides

Bulk Purchase Selection Guide

Procuring melanotan peptide in bulk requires careful evaluation of supplier capabilities and product specifications. Common pitfalls include misrepresented purity, inadequate documentation, and unstable supply chains.

Common Pitfalls

• Purity Inflation: Some suppliers claim 99% purity without providing HPLC chromatograms or retention time data.
• Incomplete Documentation: Lack of third-party testing or missing certificates of analysis can lead to regulatory issues.
• Inconsistent Supply: Unreliable lead times and variable batch quality disrupt research timelines.
• Improper Storage: Peptides shipped without cold-chain packaging degrade rapidly, reducing effective yield.

Selection Standards

• Request a full Certificate of Analysis (CoA) including HPLC purity, MS confirmation, and endotoxin results.
• Verify supplier GMP certification and third-party audit reports.
• Confirm cold-chain shipping capabilities with temperature data loggers.
• Evaluate minimum order quantities (MOQs) and lead times for bulk orders.
• Assess technical support availability for formulation or reconstitution guidance.

Buyer Checklist

• ☐ HPLC purity ≥98% with chromatogram provided
• ☐ Mass spectrometry confirmation of molecular weight
• ☐ Endotoxin level ≤1 EU/mg
• ☐ Residual solvent analysis report
• ☐ Stability data under recommended storage conditions
• ☐ Cold-chain shipping with temperature monitoring
• ☐ GMP certification or equivalent quality standard
• ☐ Clear return and replacement policy for defective batches

Core Product Advantages

Our melanotan peptide offers distinct benefits that address the specific needs of B2B buyers in cosmetic and lab raw material markets.

Purity: Every batch is tested by HPLC and mass spectrometry to guarantee ≥99% purity, minimizing impurities that can interfere with experimental results or formulation stability.

Stability: Lyophilized powder remains stable for 24 months at -20°C, and reconstituted solutions maintain activity for 14 days under refrigeration, reducing waste and enabling flexible usage schedules.

Cost Performance: Competitive bulk pricing without compromising quality, supported by efficient manufacturing processes and direct supply chain management.

Technical Support: Our team provides formulation guidance, reconstitution protocols, and troubleshooting assistance to ensure successful integration into your research or product development workflows.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What is the minimum purity required for melanotan peptide in cosmetic formulation research?
For cosmetic formulation studies, a minimum purity of 98% is recommended to avoid interference from truncated peptides or residual solvents. Higher purity (≥99%) is preferred for sensitive applications such as cell-based assays or stability testing.

Q2: How should melanotan peptide be stored after reconstitution for long-term lab use?
After reconstitution with sterile bacteriostatic water, melanotan peptide should be stored at 2–8°C and used within 14 days. For longer storage, aliquot the solution and freeze at -20°C for up to 6 months, avoiding repeated freeze-thaw cycles.

Q3: What documentation should I request when purchasing melanotan peptide in bulk?
Request a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) including HPLC purity percentage, mass spectrometry confirmation, endotoxin level, residual solvent analysis, and stability data. Additionally, ask for GMP certification and third-party audit reports to verify manufacturing quality.