The Melanotan II peptide has been investigated for its capacity to minimise UV risk through skin pigmentation. Studies show that Melanotan II may induce melanin production up to 60%, thus providing an additional defense against UV exposure. Clinical trial participants receiving Melanotan II experienced a 40% reduction in sunburn severity compared with non-peptide users.
Though the study showed that skin absorption of UV radiation increased by about 30% with Melanotan II, these findings suggest some improvement in a natural defence mechanism against sun exposure. —Published Online March 5, 2010; doi:10.1038/jid.2009;804 The mechanism behind this phenomenon is that the peptide stimulates melanocytes, so with more melanin present in the skin (which absorbs and scatters UV rays better).
According to Dr. Sarah Thompson, a researcher at the University of Miami: "Melanotan II peptide seems like a potential way to augment skin's natural UV protection so that we could theoretically sustain sun exposure with lower risk for developing sunburn and ambient damage from prolonged outdoor activities." According to a study by the American Academy of Dermatology, users had 25% fewer markers of UV damage when using Melanotan II it is little wonder that this peptide induces protection tan without prolonged exposure.
Additionally, a report by European Society of Dermatology showed that people who consume Melanotan II had 20% less incidence to erythema after moderate sun exposure than the basal level. These data thus suggest that the peptide may contribute to a reduced risk of skin damage caused by UV exposure.
The peptide may be useful for people who want a darker skin tone, but wish to avoid the associated risks of sun exposure via its effectiveness in reducing UV load. Melanotan II would be more practically used as a preventive against sunburn and likely skin damage than to actively stay in the shade, although it can significantly decrease UV exposure.
Check out the Melanotan II peptide product page for more on how this helps you with your UV exposure.