Research Only Cosmetic & Skin

Argireline

also known as: Acetyl Hexapeptide-3, Acetyl Hexapeptide-8, AH-8

A cosmetic-industry hexapeptide marketed as "topical Botox" — reduces muscle contraction signaling at the neuromuscular junction; modest but documented effects on expression-line depth.

A synthetic acetylated hexapeptide derived from the N-terminal fragment of SNAP-25, marketed under the brand Argireline (Lipotec) as a topical cosmetic ingredient that modestly reduces neuromuscular acetylcholine release at the skin surface.

Mechanism of action

Competes with SNAP-25 for binding at the SNARE complex, modestly reducing vesicle docking and thereby acetylcholine release at the neuromuscular junction. The effect at topically achievable concentrations is much smaller than botulinum toxin but reproducible in placebo-controlled cosmetic studies of expression-line depth.

Primary uses

Topical cosmetic anti-aging formulations

Typical dosing

5–10 % (topical formulation) daily topical application (topical)

Cosmetic concentrations; not used as an injectable.

Regulatory status

Not a drug. Widely used as an ingredient in cosmetic topical formulations. Not FDA-approved as a therapeutic; cosmetic use governed by cosmetic-ingredient regulations rather than drug approval.

References

[pubmed] Blanes-Mira C, et al. "A synthetic hexapeptide (Argireline) with antiwrinkle activity." Int J Cosmet Sci, 2002;24:303-310.
[pubmed] Wang Y, et al. "The anti-wrinkle efficacy of argireline, a synthetic hexapeptide, in Chinese subjects: a randomized, placebo-controlled study." Am J Clin Dermatol, 2013;14:147-153.

Related peptides

Matrixyl

A palmitoylated pentapeptide derived from a collagen-I breakdown fragment (KTTKS) — widely used in cosmetic topicals with clinical data supporting modest reductions in fine-line depth over 12 weeks.

SNAP-8

An octapeptide cosmetic ingredient extending the Argireline concept — same SNAP-25 competitive mechanism with two additional residues and claims of enhanced activity.

GHK-Cu

A naturally occurring human tripeptide-copper complex with extensive topical cosmetic evidence and strong in-vitro data on collagen synthesis, angiogenesis, and anti-inflammatory signaling.

Disclaimer

This entry is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Dosing information reflects published regulatory or research data and is not a recommendation. Many compounds described here are not approved for human use in the United States. Consult a licensed medical professional before considering any peptide therapy.