Leuphasyl vs Melanotan-1
A side-by-side research comparison of Leuphasyl and Melanotan-1 across mechanism, dosing, half-life, benefits, side effects and research status.
Comparison table
| Attribute | Leuphasyl | Melanotan-1 |
|---|---|---|
| Full name | Leuphasyl (Pentapeptide-18) | Melanotan-1 (Afamelanotide) |
| Category | Skin & Anti-Aging | Skin & Anti-Aging |
| Status | Research compound | Approved (afamelanotide) / Research compound |
| Mechanism | Binds enkephalin receptors on neuronal membranes, reducing calcium influx and neurotransmitter release at the presynaptic level. Works upstream of argireline. | Selectively activates the melanocortin-1 receptor (MC1R) on melanocytes, increasing eumelanin production and providing UV photoprotection and skin darkening. |
| Molecular weight | 599.7 Da | 1646.85 Da |
| Half-life | 6-10 hours (topical) | ~1 hour (peptide); implant form is sustained |
| Bioavailability | Moderate (topical) | Subcutaneous injection or sustained-release implant |
| Typical dose | 3-5% solution | ~0.5-1 mg per dose (research) |
| Frequency | 2x daily | Daily loading then maintenance |
| Route | Topical | Subcutaneous injection |
Leuphasyl reported benefits
- Complements argireline action
- Reduces muscle tension
- Smooths expression lines
- Gentle mechanism
Melanotan-1 reported benefits
- Skin tanning with less sun exposure
- UV photoprotection
- Fewer side effects than Melanotan-2
- Approved form for light-sensitivity disorder
Related comparisons
Research and educational reference only. Not medical advice.