Epi Tan is an Australian pharmaceutical company that specialises in dermatology treatments. It launched on the UK’s AIM in May 2005.

Epi Tan has developed a synthetic version of the naturally occuring hormone alpha-MSH, which stimulates melanin production. Melanin helps protect the skin against sunburn by increasing pigment.

Early clinical trials have shown a reduction in sunburn injury by up to 50 per cent. Called Melanontan, it is injected in a slow release form but a lotion and spray are being trialed.

The company is also listed on the Australian Stock Exchange.