Mélaline® is a keratin hydrolysate obtained from the wool of free-range black sheep raised in France, extracted through a patented, acid-free enzymatic process that preserves the active peptide fractions and maximises bioavailability above 96%.

Melanin is the pigment naturally responsible for skin and hair colour. With age, melanocytes — the cells that produce melanin — gradually reduce their activity, leading to a less intense tan and the progressive appearance of white hair. An oral intake of bioactive melanin is designed to support this natural production and to help prepare the skin ahead of sun exposure.

In a clinical trial, researchers reported an average 249% increase in tan intensity after 30 days of supplementation at the recommended dose of 700mg per day, a result associated in the study with a doubling of epidermal melanin levels and, according to the trial, a more even, better-protected skin tone.

On the hair side, the same research reported a progressive re-pigmenting effect from 60 days of use, with a measurable rise in hair pigmentation of around 13% at four months — most noticeable on early signs of greying, with results depending on individual genetics. Melanin is also understood to contribute to cellular protection by limiting the penetration of harmful UVB rays. As with any single clinical study, these are the findings reported by that trial rather than a guaranteed individual outcome, and this supplement is not a substitute for sun protection.

Each 2-capsule daily dose provides 700mg of Mélaline® keratin, including at least 3.5mg of pure melanin and 0.5mg of copper — a mineral cofactor essential for effective pigmentation. The capsules are Plantcaps® (tapioca-derived pullulan), fully plant-based and hypoallergenic.

The product contains no excipients, no GMOs, no nanoparticles and no preservatives. It is Halal and Kosher certified, not tested on animals, and entirely produced in France, in an eco-responsible approach that makes use of local wool resources.

Take 2 capsules a day with a meal. To prepare for tanning, start supplementation 3–4 weeks before sun exposure and continue throughout the summer to help extend your tan. For hair pigmentation support, a longer course of several months is recommended, with consistent daily intake for best results over the medium term.

This product does not replace external sun protection — always use a suitable sunscreen. People with known allergies to animal proteins or a specific dermatological condition should seek medical advice before use. Not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women without prior medical advice. Food supplement — does not replace a varied, balanced diet or a healthy lifestyle. Keep out of reach of children.

How long before sun exposure should I start taking melanin?

It’s recommended to start supplementation 3–4 weeks before your first significant sun exposure. This gives the body time to build its pigment reserves and helps distribute melanin more evenly in the upper layers of the skin for a more even tan.

Can melanin capsules help slow the appearance of white hair?

Studies report an effect on slowing the progression of greying and a slight re-colouring of salt-and-pepper areas, with more noticeable results on early signs of discolouration. Genetically driven greying cannot be fully reversed by melanin supplementation alone.

Does Mélaline® melanin replace sun protection?

No — this supplement does not replace the use of external sun protection. It offers complementary internal support by helping prepare the skin for exposure and limiting the impact of UVB rays, but applying a suitable sunscreen remains essential for full protection.

What is the origin of the melanin used in this product?

The melanin is extracted from a keratin hydrolysate sourced from the wool of black sheep raised in France. The patented enzymatic extraction process uses no chemical acids, making use of a local resource in an eco-responsible approach.

Herba Barona is an independent specialist supplement shop in the heart of Paris — established in 2006. What you order is genuinely on our shelves: we ship from our own stock, with no dropshipping and no long waits.

Visit us at 10 rue Théophile Roussel, Paris 12 — or use Click & Collect and pick up your order in-store. We also deliver across France and Europe. Friendly, expert advice in English from our team.

Where is the shop?

Herba Barona is at 10 rue Théophile Roussel, 75012 Paris — a two-minute walk from Ledru-Rollin (line 8), close to Bastille. Open Tuesday to Saturday, 9:30 am–6:30 pm.

Can I order online or collect in store?

Yes. We ship across France and Europe under the same conditions as our French store, or choose Click & Collect to pick up your order for free at our Paris shop.