Family · skin
SNAP-8 (Acetyl Octapeptide-3)
Acetyl Octapeptide-3, Acetyl Glutamyl Heptapeptide-1
A synthetic topical octapeptide designed to mimic the N-terminal end of the SNAP-25 protein and compete for a position in the SNARE complex, modulating neurotransmitter (acetylcholine) release and thereby softening the muscle contractions that form expression lines. It is a longer analog of the parent hexapeptide Argireline (acetyl hexapeptide-8).
Marketed as a cosmetic ingredient with modest evidence. Most efficacy figures (wrinkle-depth reductions) come from manufacturer-sponsored or in-vitro studies; independent peer-reviewed human data specific to SNAP-8 are limited. The closest published mechanistic evidence relates to the parent SNARE peptide Argireline.
- Topical leave-on cosmetics (serums, creams) targeting expression lines
- Marketed as a topical 'peptide' alternative to reduce dynamic wrinkles around the eyes and forehead
- Formulation ingredient combined with other cosmetic peptides
Educational overview only — no dosing instructions in the public hub. SNAP-8 is a topical cosmetic ingredient, typically used at low percentages in leave-on formulations per manufacturer guidance.
Generally used topically at low concentrations; main practical concerns are formulation quality and skin irritation/sensitivity in some users. It is a cosmetic ingredient, not an injectable or systemic drug, and is not a substitute for botulinum toxin.
As a cosmetic ingredient it should carry an INCI declaration (Acetyl Octapeptide-3) and supplier specification; for raw material, a CoA (purity + quantification + MS) is the minimum verification.
A recognized cosmetic ingredient (INCI: Acetyl Octapeptide-3) permitted in leave-on cosmetic products. It is not an approved drug and makes no approved therapeutic claim.
Frequently asked questions
- What is SNAP-8 (Acetyl Octapeptide-3) used for?
- Topical leave-on cosmetics (serums, creams) targeting expression lines. Marketed as a topical 'peptide' alternative to reduce dynamic wrinkles around the eyes and forehead. Formulation ingredient combined with other cosmetic peptides. Marketed as a cosmetic ingredient with modest evidence. Most efficacy figures (wrinkle-depth reductions) come from manufacturer-sponsored or in-vitro studies; independent peer-reviewed human data specific to SNAP-8 are limited. The closest published mechanistic evidence relates to the parent SNARE peptide Argireline.
- Is SNAP-8 (Acetyl Octapeptide-3) legal in Europe?
- A recognized cosmetic ingredient (INCI: Acetyl Octapeptide-3) permitted in leave-on cosmetic products. It is not an approved drug and makes no approved therapeutic claim.
- What are the risks and side effects of SNAP-8 (Acetyl Octapeptide-3)?
- Generally used topically at low concentrations; main practical concerns are formulation quality and skin irritation/sensitivity in some users. It is a cosmetic ingredient, not an injectable or systemic drug, and is not a substitute for botulinum toxin.
- How is the quality of SNAP-8 (Acetyl Octapeptide-3) assessed?
- As a cosmetic ingredient it should carry an INCI declaration (Acetyl Octapeptide-3) and supplier specification; for raw material, a CoA (purity + quantification + MS) is the minimum verification.