Argireline (Acetyl Hexapeptide-8)
Research profile · How we handle evidence
Argireline (INCI name Acetyl Hexapeptide-8, formerly Acetyl Hexapeptide-3) is a synthetic hexapeptide used topically in anti-wrinkle cosmetics. It mimics part of the SNAP-25 protein and is marketed as a milder, topical alternative to botulinum toxin for expression lines.
Evidence Score
Preliminary signal
Category
Therapeutic area
Standard Dose
1-2x daily, applied to skin
Half-life
Plasma elimination
Route
Topical
Safety Tier
Limited data
Overview
Argireline is a common ingredient in anti-wrinkle serums and creams. The idea is that it interferes with the same SNARE-complex machinery botulinum toxin targets, gently reducing how strongly facial muscles contract, which is why it's sometimes called a 'topical Botox alternative' - the effect is much subtler and topical, not injected.
Mechanism of Action
Argireline is a common ingredient in anti-wrinkle serums and creams. The idea is that it interferes with the same SNARE-complex machinery botulinum toxin targets, gently reducing how strongly facial muscles contract, which is why it's sometimes called a 'topical Botox alternative' - the effect is much subtler and topical, not injected.
Benefits
- Marketed to soften the appearance of expression lines
- Used as a topical complement to other anti-aging actives
- Well-established cosmetic ingredient with a long safety track record
Side Effects
- Mild skin irritation in sensitive individuals
- No systemic effects expected at cosmetic topical concentrations
- Effect size is modest and cosmetic, not comparable to injected neuromodulators
Contraindications
- Known sensitivity to the ingredient
- Not for injection - topical cosmetic use only
Structure & Sequence
Verified structure
Argireline (Acetyl Hexapeptide-8)
Sequence illustration backed by PubChem match.
- Amino Acid Sequence
- Ac-Glu-Glu-Met-Gln-Arg-Arg-NH2 (Ac-EEMQRR-NH2)
- Molecular Weight
- 889 Da
- Chemical Formula
- C34H60N14O12S
- CAS Number
- 616204-22-9
- InChIKey
- RJZNPROJTJSYLC-LLINQDLYSA-N
Stack & Route Context
Stacks with
No entries listed.
Administration
Topical
Research Status
Supported by an industry-sponsored clinical study (Blanes-Mira et al., 2002) showing reduced wrinkle depth with topical use; independent, large-scale clinical trials are limited. Long history of cosmetic use since the early 2000s.
Approval Status
Cosmetic Use
Sports Legal
Permitted
References
- 1View source
A synthetic hexapeptide (Argireline) with antiwrinkle activity
2002
This profile summarizes research literature for education only. It is not medical advice, and it does not diagnose, treat, or recommend a dose. Consult a qualified professional before changing a protocol.