Argireline
Also known as: Acetyl Hexapeptide-8, Acetil Hexapeptídeo-8
Molecular Identifiers
Molecular Formula
C35H62N14O11S
CAS Number
616204-22-9
PubChem CID
71587772Molecular Weight
888.9 Da
Overview
Acetylated hexapeptide with anti-wrinkle action that inhibits the SNARE complex, reducing facial muscle contraction. Known as a non-invasive alternative to botulinum toxin for the treatment of expression lines.
Argireline is one of the most widely known and studied cosmetic peptides, with strong presence in anti-aging serums, creams, and ampoules. Its clinical appeal lies in reducing the depth of dynamic wrinkles — forehead, glabella, and eye contour — by competing with endogenous SNAP-25 in the SNARE complex, dampening facial muscle contraction. The effect is dose-dependent, gradual, and much more subtle than botulinum toxin, with the advantage of topical application.
As a cosmetic ingredient, it is widely accepted by regulatory agencies within a cosmetic (not drug) framework, at typical concentrations of 5-10%. In some markets, compounding pharmacies prepare versions for subcutaneous use — off-label use without formal regulatory support. Noticeable results usually appear after 2 to 4 weeks of continuous use and depend on sustained application.
Within cosmetic peptides with botulinum-like action, Argireline is the prototype of the family and the clinical reference for SNAP-8 (Acetyl Octapeptide-3) and Acetyl Octapeptide-1, both analogues that add amino acids to the same sequence seeking greater SNAP-25 affinity. It differs mechanistically from Matrixyl and Tripeptide-29, which stimulate collagen without neuromuscular action, and from Decapeptide-12, aimed at depigmentation — all are combined in multi-peptide formulations with complementary goals.
EEMQRR Glu-Glu-Met-Gln-Arg-Arg Half-life
~2-3 hours
Administration Route
Topical or subcutaneous
Category
Cosmetic & Skin
Mechanism of Action
- Inhibition of the SNARE complex at the neuromuscular junction
- Competition with endogenous SNAP-25 protein
- Facial muscle relaxation
- Reduction of wrinkle and expression line depth
- Prevention of new expression line formation
Dosage Protocol
Data compiled from the literature. This does not constitute medical advice.
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Dose | Topical 5-10% or 100-250 mcg subcutaneous |
| Frequency | Topical twice daily, subcutaneous 2-3x per week |
| Timing | Morning and evening (topical) |
| Duration | Continuous use (topical), 8-12 weeks (subcutaneous) |
Reported Side Effects
Adverse effects described in the literature. Severity and frequency vary between individuals.
- Mild skin irritation
- Redness
- Local sensitivity
Product Properties
| Purity | >98% |
| Appearance | White lyophilized powder or clear solution |
| 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 Argireline found in the research market:
Reconstitution
- Diluent: Bacteriostatic water
- Volume: 2 ml per 5 mg vial
- Inject the diluent slowly against 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
Scientific Studies
Published studies on Argireline.
The anti-wrinkle efficacy of argireline, a synthetic hexapeptide, in Chinese subjects: a randomized, placebo-controlled study
Wang Y, Wang M, Xiao S, Pan P, Li P, Huo J
A synthetic hexapeptide (Argireline) with antiwrinkle activity
Blanes-Mira C, Clemente J, Jodas G, Gil A, Fernández-Ballester G, Ponsati B, Gutierrez L, Pérez-Payá E, Ferrer-Montiel A
Related Peptides
Acetyl Octapeptide-1
Topical 3-5% · Twice daily
AHK-Cu
Topical or 200-500 mcg subcutaneous · 1-2 times daily (topical), every other day (subcutaneous)
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)