Argireline
Acetyl Hexapeptide-3 (Acetyl Hexapeptide-8)
Overview
Argireline (Acetyl Hexapeptide-3) is a synthetic hexapeptide derived from the N-terminal end of SNAP-25 — the same protein targeted by botulinum toxin — that has become one of the most popular topical anti-aging peptides globally. Often called 'Botox in a bottle' it reduces expression lines by partially inhibiting neuromuscular junction signaling in facial muscles. Multiple clinical trials have demonstrated reductions in wrinkle depth of 10-27% with consistent application. It is widely used in premium cosmeceutical formulations as a non-invasive alternative to injectable neuromodulators.
Mechanism of Action
Argireline mimics the N-terminal sequence of SNAP-25 and competitively interferes with the SNARE complex formation required for acetylcholine vesicle fusion at the neuromuscular junction. By partially blocking SNARE complex assembly Argireline reduces the quantity of acetylcholine released per nerve impulse leading to partial relaxation of facial expression muscles. The effect is concentration-dependent dose-limited and fully reversible distinguishing it from botulinum toxin which causes complete but temporary denervation. The mechanism is topically targeted — systemic absorption is minimal so effects are local to the application area. Clinical studies have confirmed both the mechanism and efficacy with periocular wrinkle depth reductions comparable to lower concentrations of topical retinol.
Dosage Information
Typical Dose
5-10% concentration in topical formulation
Frequency
Twice daily application to targeted areas
Administration
Topical serum or cream
Notes
Most effective on expression lines around eyes and forehead. Higher concentrations (10%) show significantly better results than lower ones. Combine with moisturizer to prevent any drying effect.
Where does Argireline sit?
See how this peptide compares across all 111 peptides in our database.
Evidence Score
0.68
Compound Data
Molecular Formula
C35H62N14O11S
Molecular Weight
887.00 g/mol
IUPAC Name
(4S)-4-acetamido-5-[[(2S)-1-[[(2S)-1-[[(2S)-5-amino-1-[[(2S)-1-[[(2S)-1-amino-5-(diaminomethylideneamino)-1-oxopentan-2-yl]amino]-5-(diaminomethylideneamino)-1-oxopentan-2-yl]amino]-1,5-dioxopentan-2-yl]amino]-4-methylsulfanyl-1-oxobutan-2-yl]amino]-4-carboxy-1-oxobutan-2-yl]amino]hex-5-enoic acid
PubChem CID
71587772Potential Side Effects
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Quick Facts
- Administration
- Topical serum or cream
- Typical Dose
- 5-10% concentration in topical formulation
- Frequency
- Twice daily application to targeted areas
- References
- 0 curated + 14 from PubMed
- Clinical Trials
- 6 registered
- Evidence Score
- 0.7 / 100