Also known as: Argireline
Acetyl hexapeptide-8 (Argireline; earlier INCI name acetyl hexapeptide-3) is a synthetic six-amino-acid peptide modeled on the N-terminal end of the SNAP-25 protein and used as a cosmetic ingredient. Research includes lab studies, several small human cosmetic studies and a 2025 systematic review.
The peptide (Ac-Glu-Glu-Met-Gln-Arg-Arg-NH2) matches the N-terminal region of SNAP-25 and, in lab assays, competes with it to interfere with SNARE-complex formation and calcium-dependent neurotransmitter release [1][6]. Cosmetic studies assessed the appearance of expression lines [5]. Whether topically applied amounts reach nerve endings in human skin in meaningful quantities has not been established.
| Study | Model | Reported result | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Original Argireline description [1] | Cell Lab assays of SNARE-complex formation and neurotransmitter release | Researchers reported that the peptide interfered with SNARE-complex assembly and calcium-dependent release in lab models. | Peer-reviewed Int J Cosmet Sci 2002 |
| Randomized trial in Chinese adults [2] | Human Adults, randomized 3:1 to peptide or placebo, 4 weeks (n=60) | Appearance of periorbital lines graded by investigators; skin-replica roughness measured. Published. | Peer-reviewed Am J Clin Dermatol 2013 |
| Skin mechanical properties study [3] | Human Women aged 35-55 (n=40), vehicle-controlled, 4 weeks; face and forearm | Skin hydration, elasticity and anisotropy measured with Corneometer, Cutometer and Reviscometer. Published. | Peer-reviewed Braz J Pharm Sci 2015 |
| Split-face serum study [4] | Human Women (n=19), double-blind split-face, peptide serum vs serum without peptide, 4 weeks | Wrinkle appearance scored by camera system; author reported no significant difference between sides. Published. | Peer-reviewed GMS Interdiscip Plast Reconstr Surg 2023 |
| Systematic review of human studies [5] | Review PRISMA review of 10 human studies (312 participants), alone or in multi-ingredient products | Studies assessed wrinkle and scar appearance; significance varied; no significant adverse effects reported. | Peer-reviewed J Drugs Dermatol 2025 |
Human cosmetic studies describe appearance only. Lab results do not establish effects on skin structure.
