Argireline
Acetyl hexapeptide-8 (also listed as acetyl hexapeptide-3)
A short synthetic peptide that mimics part of SNAP-25, a protein needed for nerve signals to muscles. It is used in cosmetics aimed at expression lines and is regulated as a cosmetic ingredient.
Structure
An acetylated, amidated hexapeptide modelled on the N-terminal end of the SNAP-25 protein. Select any residue to see what it is.
Evidence at a glance
Where the published research on Argireline comes from, by type of study.
Cell studies
Assays of SNARE complex formation and neurotransmitter release in cultured cells.
Animal studies
Limited animal data.
Human studies
Small studies of topical creams on wrinkle depth around the eyes.
Research areas
What laboratories have studied Argireline for, and in which models. These are research questions, not proven uses.
SNARE complex inhibition
Chromaffin cell assays- Competes with SNAP-25 and reduces SNARE complex formation in vitro.
- Reduced catecholamine release in cultured cells.
Cosmetic efficacy
Topical creams- Small trials measured wrinkle depth after weeks of topical use.
Legal status
Argireline is a cosmetic ingredient in topical products. It is not an approved drug anywhere we cover.
United States Cosmetic
Allowed as a cosmetic ingredient in topical products, as long as the product makes no drug claims. Not approved as a drug.
United Kingdom Cosmetic
Permitted in cosmetics under the UK Cosmetics Regulation when used topically without medicinal claims.
European Union Cosmetic
Permitted in cosmetics under Regulation (EC) 1223/2009 when used topically without medicinal claims.
Sport Not listed
Not on the WADA Prohibited List as a topical cosmetic ingredient.
Lab handling
General good practice for research materials. Follow the supplier's datasheet where it differs.
Storage
Keep the sealed material at −20 °C, dry and away from light. Let the vial reach room temperature before opening to stop condensation.
Solubility
Water soluble; supplied in cosmetic solution. Add solvent down the vial wall and swirl gently rather than shaking.
Aliquots
Split solutions into single-use aliquots, label with lot number and date, and freeze. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
Work out your stock solution
Stock concentration, molarity and dilutions for Argireline, using MW 888.99 g/mol.
Before you buy for formulation work
Tick each check as you confirm it with the supplier. Do not order until all six are done.
Questions researchers ask
What is Argireline?
A short synthetic peptide that mimics part of SNAP-25, a protein needed for nerve signals to muscles. It is used in cosmetics aimed at expression lines and is regulated as a cosmetic ingredient.
What is the molecular weight of Argireline?
About 888.99 g/mol for the free peptide. Salt forms such as acetate weigh more, so use the figure on your batch certificate of analysis.
Is Argireline approved for human use?
Argireline is permitted as a topical cosmetic ingredient but is not an approved drug. Allowed as a cosmetic ingredient in topical products, as long as the product makes no drug claims. Not approved as a drug.
How should Argireline be stored in the lab?
Keep the sealed material cold, dry and away from light, typically at −20 °C. Once in solution, split it into single-use aliquots and freeze to avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
Does this page give doses?
No. We publish laboratory and educational information only, never doses, injection guidance or treatment advice.
