Melanotan 2 is a synthetic (lab-made) analog of a natural hormone in the body called alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH). Its primary designed effect is to stimulate the production of eumelanin, the dark brown/black pigment in your skin, leading to a tan without the need for extended sun exposure or UV radiation.
 
Mechanism: It binds to melanocortin receptors in the body, primarily MC1R receptors on skin cells called melanocytes.
Effect: This binding triggers melanogenesis—the process where melanocytes produce eumelanin, darkening the skin.
Key Difference from a Natural Tan: While it does still require some UV exposure to "activate" the tan, the amount of UV needed is significantly less than for a natural tan. The idea is to use a small amount of sun or UV beds to trigger the already-primed melanin production.
 
For Research purposes only and not for Human consumption