Acetyl Hexapeptide-1

Acetyl Hexapeptide-1 is a biomimetic signal peptide that mimics α-MSH (alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone), the body's own trigger for melanin production. It binds to the MC1R receptor on melanocytes and stimulates natural pigmentation, supporting the skin's own defence against UV damage and helping restore colour to greying hair. It is used in sunless-tanning, tan-boosting, after-sun and anti-grey hair formulations.

INCI Name: Acetyl Hexapeptide-1

CAS No.: 448944-47-6

Molecular Formula: C₄₃H₅₉N₁₃O₇

Molecular Weight: 870.01 g/mol

Sequence: Ac-Nle-Ala-His-D-Phe-Arg-Trp-NH₂

Alternate Names: α-MSH Biomimetic Peptide, MC1R Agonist Peptide, Hair Darkening Peptide

Appearance: White to off-white powder, water soluble

Purity of the Ingredient: 99%

Country of Origin: India

Benefits and Uses

• Stimulates natural melanin production for an even, natural-looking tan
• Strengthens the skin's own defence against UV-induced damage
• Helps reduce UV-induced redness and inflammation
• Helps protect skin cells from UV-induced DNA damage
• Restores pigment to hair, helping slow and reverse premature greying
• Ideal for tan accelerators, after-sun care, anti-grey hair serums and scalp tonics

Note: Acetyl Hexapeptide-1 increases pigmentation. It is not suitable for skin-brightening or dark-spot correction products.

How It Works

• Binds to the MC1R receptor on melanocytes, mimicking the action of α-MSH
• Stimulates tyrosinase activity and eumelanin (brown-black pigment) synthesis
• Increases melanocyte dendricity, improving transfer of melanin to surrounding skin and hair cells
• D-Phenylalanine in the sequence makes the peptide resistant to enzymatic breakdown, improving stability on skin

pH and Ideal Temperature Range for Best Use

• Optimal pH: 5.0 – 7.0
• Ideal Temperature: Add during the cool-down phase below 40°C (104°F). Store the powder sealed, away from light and moisture, in a freezer (–20°C) for long-term storage.

How to Use Acetyl Hexapeptide-1 for Skincare and Haircare?

• Recommended usage level (pure powder): 0.001% to 0.01% (10 – 100 ppm) in the finished formulation
• Prepare a stock solution in distilled water first for accurate dosing, then add to the water phase during cool-down (<40°C)
• Use in tan-boosting lotions, after-sun gels, anti-grey hair serums and scalp tonics
• Combines well with Tyrosine and Acetyl Tyrosine in tanning and anti-grey formulations
• Visible results need regular use over several weeks
• Always perform a patch test before topical application