Acetyl Octapeptide-1
Also known as: SNAP-25 fragment
Molecular Identifiers
Molecular Formula
C41H70N16O16S
CAS Number
868844-74-0
PubChem CID
76283482Molecular Weight
1075.17 Da
Overview
Acetylated octapeptide with anti-wrinkle properties that acts on neuromuscular junction modulation. Reduces facial expression lines by interfering with the release of neurotransmitters involved in muscle contraction.
The clinical appeal of Acetyl Octapeptide-1 lies in the treatment of dynamic expression lines. As a SNAP-25 fragment, it competes with the endogenous protein in the SNARE complex, dampening acetylcholine release and partially relaxing facial muscles. The effect is gradual, dose-dependent, and much more subtle than botulinum toxin, with the advantage of not requiring injection.
It is mainly used today in topical cosmetic formulations at 3-5%, in anti-aging serums and creams, usually combined with peptides from the same family (Argireline, SNAP-8). It holds no regulatory drug status; when compounded for subcutaneous use, it is dispensed off-label by compounding pharmacies. Results typically appear with continuous use over several weeks and tend to persist while application continues.
Mechanistically, Acetyl Octapeptide-1 is very close to SNAP-8 (Acetyl Octapeptide-3), sharing the same base sequence derived from SNAP-25 and topical botulinum-like action — and both are extensions of Argireline (Acetyl Hexapeptide-8), the prototype of the family. It differs fundamentally from Matrixyl and Tripeptide-29, which stimulate collagen with no neuromuscular action, and from Decapeptide-12, aimed at depigmentation. Multi-peptide blends leverage this complementarity.
EEMQRRAD Ac-Glu-Glu-Met-Gln-Arg-Arg-Ala-Asp-NH₂ Acetylated peptide — SNAP-25 fragment
Half-life
~2-3 hours
Administration Route
Topical or subcutaneous
Category
Cosmetic & Skin
Mechanism of Action
- Modulation of the facial neuromuscular junction
- Reduction of dynamic expression lines
- Interference with acetylcholine release
- Partial relaxation of facial musculature
- Prevention of deepening of existing wrinkles
Dosage Protocol
Data compiled from the literature. This does not constitute medical advice.
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Dose | Topical 3-5% |
| Frequency | Twice daily |
| Timing | Morning and evening |
| Duration | Continuous use |
Reported Side Effects
Adverse effects described in the literature. Severity and frequency vary between individuals.
- Local irritation
- Redness
- Skin sensitivity
Product Properties
| Purity | >98% |
| Appearance | White lyophilized powder |
| Solubility | Soluble in water and bacteriostatic water |
| Source | Solid-phase peptide synthesis (SPPS) |
| Storage | Lyophilized: -20°C for up to 2 years, 2-8°C for up to 6 months. Reconstituted: 2-8°C for up to 4 weeks. Protect from light and moisture. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles. |
Presentations & Preparation
Vials of Acetyl Octapeptide-1 found in the research market:
Reconstitution
- Diluent: Bacteriostatic water
- Volume: 2 ml per vial
- Slowly inject the diluent along the vial wall
- Gently swirl until fully dissolved
- Never shake
Storage
- Lyophilized: Refrigerated 2-8°C
- Reconstituted: Refrigerated 2-8°C (up to 30 days)
- Protect from direct light
- Do not freeze after reconstitution
Related Peptides
AHK-Cu
Topical or 200-500 mcg subcutaneous · 1-2 times daily (topical), every other day (subcutaneous)
Argireline
Topical 5-10% or 100-250 mcg subcutaneous · Topical twice daily, subcutaneous 2-3x per week
Decapeptide-12
Topical application · 1-2 times daily
GHK Basic
Topical or 200-600 mcg subcutaneous · 1-2 times daily (topical), every other day (subcutaneous)
Matrixyl
Topical application · 1-2 times daily
Melanotan I
0.5-1 mg per injection · Every other day (loading phase), weekly (maintenance)