Melanotan II use highlighted by man injecting illegal tanning peptide for 17 years

A British man has shared a testimony regarding his 17-year use of Melanotan II, a synthetic peptide used to induce artificial tanning. Often referred to as the ‘Barbie drug’ on social media, the substance is prohibited for sale in most countries.

According to Cancer Research UK, the peptide stimulates pigment cells to produce more melanin. The user noted that the product does not provide protection against sunburn and requires a ‘loading phase’ to allow the body to adapt. The substance typically takes approximately two weeks to show visible effects.