Nonapeptide-1
Also known as: Nonapeptide-1
Nonapeptide-1 is a nine-amino-acid cosmetic peptide that inhibits melanin formation by antagonizing the melanocortin-1 receptor. It is used topically for skin brightening and pigment control.
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Mechanism of Action
Nonapeptide-1 competitively binds the melanocortin-1 receptor (MC1R) on melanocytes, blocking alpha-MSH from triggering adenylate cyclase and cAMP accumulation. Lower cAMP reduces activation of MITF, the master transcription factor for melanogenesis, which in turn downregulates tyrosinase, TRP-1, and TRP-2 enzyme expression. The result is reduced melanin output and a lighter, more uniform skin tone over repeated topical application.
- Half-life
- Local topical persistence over hours; not systemically meaningful
- Administration Routes
- topical
- Research Status
- Research Chemical
Reported Benefits
- Inhibits melanogenesis at the MC1R signaling level
- Brightens skin and fades hyperpigmentation
- Reduces tyrosinase enzyme expression indirectly
- Formulates well for topical cosmetic use
- Pairs with tyrosinase-inhibiting brighteners for additive effect
Potential Side Effects
- Mild redness or irritation in sensitive skin
- Possible dryness with frequent application
- Slow, cumulative effect rather than rapid change
Common Dosing
For research use only, not medical advice. Cosmetic preparations commonly reference low percentage concentrations applied topically once or twice daily; this is not a personal-use recommendation.
The dosing information above is aggregated from research literature and anecdotal community reports for educational purposes only. It is not a recommendation, prescription, or medical advice. Peptides are sold as research chemicals only and are not intended for human use.
Contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity to the peptide
- Application to compromised or infected skin
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Enhanced skin benefits of EGCG loaded in nonapeptide-1-conjugated mesoporous silica nanoparticles to reverse skin photoaging
2024
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A randomized controlled pilot study of a proprietary combination versus sunscreen in melasma maintenance.
2021
Note: Tested in a multi-ingredient product, so the result can't be attributed to Nonapeptide-1 alone.