Short tri- and tetrapeptides according to the following Formula I Ar(CH2)mX1—X2—CO—X3—X4—X5-(Trp)n-NX6R are potent, selective agonists of melanocortin 1 receptor (MC1R). Provided herein are pharmaceutical compositions including Formula I peptide agonists of MC1R and methods of treating skin diseases and disorders that include administering to an individual in need thereof a therapeutic amount of a Formula I peptide. The peptides, pharmaceutical compositions, and methods described herein are useful in the treatment of diseases and disorders that benefit from agonism of MCIR, including melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, porphyria, polymorphous light eruption, vitiligo, and solar urticaria.