Matrixyl vs Melanotan-1
A side-by-side research comparison of Matrixyl and Melanotan-1 across mechanism, dosing, half-life, benefits, side effects and research status.
Comparison table
| Attribute | Matrixyl | Melanotan-1 |
|---|---|---|
| Full name | Matrixyl (Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4 / Pal-KTTKS) | Melanotan-1 (Afamelanotide) |
| Category | Skin & Anti-Aging | Skin & Anti-Aging |
| Status | Research compound | Approved (afamelanotide) / Research compound |
| Mechanism | Signals through TGF-B pathway to stimulate fibroblast production of collagen I, III, IV, fibronectin, and hyaluronic acid. Palmitoyl chain enhances penetration. | Selectively activates the melanocortin-1 receptor (MC1R) on melanocytes, increasing eumelanin production and providing UV photoprotection and skin darkening. |
| Molecular weight | 802.1 Da | 1646.85 Da |
| Half-life | 6-12 hours (topical depot) | ~1 hour (peptide); implant form is sustained |
| Bioavailability | Moderate (topical) | Subcutaneous injection or sustained-release implant |
| Typical dose | 2-8% in serum/cream | ~0.5-1 mg per dose (research) |
| Frequency | 1-2x daily | Daily loading then maintenance |
| Route | Topical | Subcutaneous injection |
Matrixyl reported benefits
- Stimulates collagen I, III, IV
- Reduces wrinkle depth up to 45%
- Increases skin thickness
- Improves firmness
- Enhances hydration
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.