Acetyl Hexapeptide-3
Neuropeptide known as Argireline® — "botox in a bottle" without injections. It blocks the release of neurotransmitters at neuromuscular synapses, reducing the intensity of facial muscle contractions and smoothing out expressive wrinkles. A safe alternative to botulinum toxin for topical use.
What is it?
Acetyl Hexapeptide-3 competitively inhibits the SNARE complex: it binds to SNAP-25 and syntaxin, blocking the exocytosis of acetylcholine at synapses. Result: reduced amplitude of facial muscle contractions → less deep facial expressions → smoothing of dynamic wrinkles. Difference from botox (botulinum toxin): does not completely block but reduces intensity → natural expression is preserved. Molecular weight ~888 Da — relatively large for a peptide. Palmitoyl analog (Acetyl Hexapeptide-8 = Argireline Amplified): additional palmitic acid for deeper penetration; both variants may appear in INCI. Concentration in products: 5–10%.
Anti-wrinkle serums for facial mimicry, products for the skin around the eyes and lips, "express lifting" serums, daytime care for the prevention of mimic wrinkles.
Key Benefits
Suitable for
Main Actions
Acetyl Hexapeptide-3: original Argireline — without a lipid tail, water-soluble. Acetyl Hexapeptide-8: Argireline Amplified — with palmitic acid → better penetration into the stratum corneum, potentially more effective at lower concentrations. In INCI: "Acetyl Hexapeptide-3" or "Acetyl Hexapeptide-8". In practice, both ingredients are sold as Argireline or Argireline Amplified. Effective concentration: 5–10%. <1% — marketing "trace".
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