Melanotan 2 is a synthetic version of α-Melanocyte-stimulating-hormone (α-MSH), which is produced in the pituitary gland of the brain and is naturally present in our bodies. The α-MSH acts on specialised skin cells responsible for producing pigment. The peptide hacks the body’s regulation of pigment cells, tricking the body into tanning itself.
 
If used as a nasal spray, Melanotan 2 can cause dramatic skin darkening in just days. It can also suppress appetite and lead to weight loss, another effect that some users find desirable.