Argireline (Acetyl Hexapeptide-3)
Known as 'topical Botox,' Argireline is a peptide that reduces the appearance of expression lines by partially inhibiting the SNARE complex — the same mechanism targeted by botulinum toxin, but through topical application rather than injection. The effect is much milder than Botox (roughly 30% wrinkle reduction vs 80%+) but provides a non-invasive option for forehead lines, crow's feet, and frown lines.
Concentration & Usage
Typically used at 5-10% concentration. Apply twice daily to expression line areas (forehead, around eyes, between brows). Effects visible after 2-4 weeks. Must be used continuously — effects reverse when stopped.
Application
Topical (serum, cream). Water-soluble. Apply directly to expression line areas.
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Mechanism of Action
Argireline (acetyl hexapeptide-3) mimics the C-terminal region of SNAP-25, a core SNARE complex component. The SNARE complex (SNAP-25, syntaxin, synaptobrevin) mediates vesicle fusion at the neuromuscular junction for acetylcholine release. Argireline competes with SNAP-25 for syntaxin binding, partially disrupting SNARE assembly and reducing neurotransmitter exocytosis. This decreases acetylcholine release and attenuates facial muscle contraction intensity. The effect is dose-dependent, localized, and reversible—unlike botulinum toxin's enzymatic cleavage of SNAP-25. Clinical studies show ~30% wrinkle reduction versus 80%+ with injectable neurotoxins. Provides non-invasive expression line softening.
Regulatory Status
Cosmetic ingredient. Available OTC worldwide. Developed by Lipotec (now part of Lubrizol).
Risks & Safety
Common
Very well-tolerated. Occasional mild tingling.
Serious
None documented.
Rare
Allergic reaction. At very high concentrations, some users report a slight 'droopy' feeling in the treated area.
Compare Argireline (Acetyl Hexapeptide-3) With
Research Papers
10Published: November 4, 2020
AI Summary
The aim of study is to evaluate the aesthetic outcome of specific formulated cosmeceutical product to mask and reduce the appearance surgical scars or unappealing skin tags in chronic diseases, such as cancer
Published: March 21, 2015
AI Summary
Claims for one cosmetic peptide, acetyl hexapeptide-8 (Ac-EEMQRR-amide), suggest interference with neuromuscular signaling as its anti-wrinkle mechanism of action. The results (percent of applied dose) showed that the majority of the Ac-EEMQRR-amide was washed from the surface of both HGP and human skin.
Published: June 1, 2017
AI Summary
Bioactive peptides have beneficial effects on the skin.
Published: August 5, 2013
AI Summary
Argireline, a synthetic peptide, which is patterned from the N-terminal end of the protein SNAP-25, can both reduce the degree of existing facial wrinkles and demonstrate effectively against their development. In our past studies, we found out that Argireline had a significant anti-wrinkle effect in
Published: January 24, 2018
AI Summary
Argireline (Arg0), a mimetic of Botox, has been found to be safer than Botox and effective in reducing wrinkles, with efficacies up to 48% upon 4 weeks of twice daily treatment. Enhanced human skin permeation was demonstrated by both Arg2 and Arg3 in vitro.
Published: April 18, 2013
AI Summary
It is reported to inhibit vesicle docking by preventing formation of the ternary SNARE complex and by interfering in catecholamine release. The anti-wrinkle efficacy of argireline has not been studied in Chinese subjects.
Published: March 16, 2014
AI Summary
The argireline inhibitory concentration, IC50 values were calculated and the results were compared to the IC50 value of the reference compound: doxorubicin. However, the significant cytotoxicity of argireline solution was observed under 18 to 10 000 fold higher concentrations (depending on cells that were examined) in comparison to doxorubicin.
Published: March 25, 2024
AI Summary
Additionally, based on density functional theory (DFT) calculations, we propose the most likely structures of the resulting Cu-peptide complexes. The biological results were subsequently compared with free Argireline, its Cu(II)-complexes, and the previously studied AN2 derivative (EAHQRR).
Published: February 19, 2015
AI Summary
By applying LC-MS/MS for quantification of AH-8, we demonstrated that a multiple water-in-oil-in-water (W/O/W) emulsion can significantly increase penetration of AH-8 into porcine skin compared to simple O/W and W/O emulsions.
Published: November 20, 2007
AI Summary
We prepared two formulations: an emulsion with an external aqueous phase for normal to dry skin, and a gel for oily skin. Laboratory analyses, rheology tests and in vitro release assays were used to evaluate the stability of these formulations for cosmetic treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Argireline (Acetyl Hexapeptide-3) used for?
Known as 'topical Botox,' Argireline is a peptide that reduces the appearance of expression lines by partially inhibiting the SNARE complex — the same mechanism targeted by botulinum toxin, but through topical application rather than injection. The effect is much milder than Botox (roughly 30% wrinkle reduction vs 80%+) but provides a non-invasive option for forehead lines, crow's feet, and frown lines.
What are the side effects of Argireline (Acetyl Hexapeptide-3)?
Common: Very well-tolerated. Occasional mild tingling. Serious: None documented. Rare: Allergic reaction. At very high concentrations, some users report a slight 'droopy' feeling in the treated area.
How is Argireline (Acetyl Hexapeptide-3) administered?
Argireline (Acetyl Hexapeptide-3) is administered via topical (serum, cream). water-soluble. apply directly to expression line areas..
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