Peptide Association LLC is a for-profit company. We receive compensation from the clinical providers listed on this site. We are not an accrediting body, a licensing board, or a government-affiliated organization. See exactly how we make money.
Melitane (Acetyl Hexapeptide-1)
Overview
Acetyl Hexapeptide-1 is a synthetic hexapeptide designed to stimulate melanin synthesis by acting as an agonist at melanocortin-1 receptors on melanocytes. The acetyl modification is intended to improve peptide stability and cellular permeability.
Mechanism of Action
Its therapeutic rationale is to promote tanning and photoprotection through increased melanogenesis, potentially offering a biomimetic alternative to UV exposure for pigmentation enhancement.
Research Summary & Key Findings
In vitro studies have shown increased tyrosinase activity and melanin content in melanocyte cultures. Small-scale human studies have reported modest increases in skin pigmentation without UV exposure, though safety data regarding long-term use and effects on melanocytic proliferation are limited.
Clinical Status
Melitane (Acetyl Hexapeptide-1) is in the research phase with limited clinical data in humans. Current evidence is primarily derived from preclinical (animal or in vitro) studies.
Administration Routes
References
Primary literature
- PubMed: "Melitane"
Peer-reviewed literature indexed by the National Library of Medicine.
- ClinicalTrials.gov: "Melitane"
Registered interventional and observational studies, including status and phase.
- PubChem: "Melitane"
Chemical structure, molecular properties, and bioactivity data.
Study-level citations for this compound are being verified against the primary sources before publication. The database queries above return the current indexed literature in the meantime.
Related Peptides in Dermatology
Afamelanotide (Scenesse)
FDA ApprovedA synthetic 13-amino acid analog of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (alpha-MSH) with a substitution of norleucine a...
View detailsArgireline (Acetyl Hexapeptide-8)
InvestigationalArgireline is a synthetic six amino acid peptide (Ac-Glu-Glu-Met-Gln-Arg-Arg-NH2) designed to attenuate neurotransmitter...
View detailsMatrixyl (Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4)
InvestigationalMatrixyl is a lipopeptide composed of a pentapeptide sequence (Lys-Thr-Thr-Lys-Ser) attached to a palmitic acid moiety t...
View detailsMatrixyl 3000
InvestigationalMatrixyl 3000 is a proprietary combination of two lipopeptides: palmitoyl tripeptide-1 (Pal-GHK) and palmitoyl tetrapept...
View detailsNo lawful pathway today
Melitane (Acetyl Hexapeptide-1) is not FDA-approved and does not currently have a lawful prescription or compounding pathway in the United States, so there is nothing for us to sell you here and no consultation to book. That can change: eight peptides moved back to a lawful pathway in February 2026.
Tell me if the status changes
One email, only if this compound's regulatory standing actually moves. Not a newsletter, not a sales sequence.
Join the Association
Access exclusive peptide protocols, provider resources, and community support.
List Your PracticeDisclaimer: This information is provided for educational and research purposes only. It is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting any peptide therapy. The Peptide Association does not endorse or recommend any specific treatment protocol. See our editorial policy for how this content is produced and reviewed.