Side-by-Side Comparison · 2026

Matrixyl vs Melanotan II

Matrixyl vs Melanotan II — mechanism, half-life, dosing, and research status compared. Which is right for your protocol?

Matrixyl
Skin & Cosmetic

Matrixyl is the trade name for Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4 (Pal-KTTKS), developed by Sederma (now Croda). It is derived from a procollagen type I C-terminal propeptide fragment and uses palmitoylation to cross the skin lipid barrier and reach dermal fibroblasts....

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Melanotan II
Skin & Cosmetic

Melanotan II (MT-II) is a synthetic analog of alpha-MSH (alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone) that non-selectively activates melanocortin receptors MC1R through MC5R. It produces accelerated skin tanning via MC1R stimulation of melanogenesis, increases libido through MC3R and MC...

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Key Parameters
Parameter Matrixyl Melanotan II
Category Skin & Cosmetic Skin & Cosmetic
Research Widely Used (Cosmetic) Research Use
Half-Life - ~1.5 hours
Typical Dose 3–5% in formulation 250–500 µg (starting); up to 1,000 µg
Frequency Twice daily Daily initially; 2–3x/week maintenance
Route Topical Subcutaneous
FDA Status Not Approved (Cosmetic) Not Approved

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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Matrixyl and Melanotan II?
Matrixyl: Matrixyl is the trade name for Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4 (Pal-KTTKS), developed by Sederma (now Croda). It is derived from a procollagen type I C-terminal propeptide fragment and uses palmitoylation to... Melanotan II: Melanotan II (MT-II) is a synthetic analog of alpha-MSH (alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone) that non-selectively activates melanocortin receptors MC1R through MC5R. It produces accelerated skin tan...
Which has a longer half-life, Matrixyl or Melanotan II?
Matrixyl half-life: unknown. Melanotan II half-life: ~1.5 hours.
Can you stack Matrixyl and Melanotan II?
Matrixyl and Melanotan II are in the same category and used together in research protocols. Always consult relevant literature and follow appropriate guidelines.

For research use only. Not medical advice. ASCEND does not conduct or endorse any specific research protocol. Always consult relevant scientific literature and regulatory guidelines.