Synthetic peptide, an elongated analogue of Argireline (Acetyl Hexapeptide-8). The manufacturer Lipotec claims SNARE-complex blockade at facial muscle synapses – a 'mechanism close to botulinum toxin'. Used in anti-age serums to smooth expression lines – glabellar, nasolabial, and outer eye wrinkles. Real effects are substantially weaker than botulinum therapy.
Topical application
DVery weak or conflicting data.
The evidence base consists of manufacturer studies (Lipotec) showing a positive effect on expression lines over 28 days. There are no independent RCTs with head-to-head comparison to botulinum toxin or placebo control. 'Botox in a jar' is marketing – the clinical effect is substantially weaker.
Acetyl Octapeptide-3 (trade name SNAP-8 by Lipotec) is a synthetic octapeptide, an elongated analogue of Argireline (Acetyl Hexapeptide-8). Per the manufacturer, the two extra amino acids raise SNARE-complex affinity. Claimed mechanism. Competes with endogenous SNAP-25 for SNARE-complex assembly at the presynaptic terminal of facial muscles. Theoretically reduces acetylcholine release and muscle contraction. Real-skin efficacy is limited by poor epidermal penetration of large peptides. Where applied. Anti-aging serums for expression lines – glabella, forehead, periocular. Concentration 5–10%. Brands: Sesderma, Endocare, Mesoestetic, Skeyndor. Evidence base. Lupo 2008 (manufacturer study, n=17, 28 days, 10%) reported up to 35% wrinkle depth reduction. No independent RCTs with clinical endpoints. Effect comparable to Argireline and substantially weaker than botulinum therapy. Safety. Hypoallergenic, non-irritating, non-comedogenic. Topical systemic absorption is minimal. Pregnancy and lactation – per manufacturer data, safe. Spanish gynecologists (SEGO 2023) still recommend avoiding 'botox-mimic' actives in pregnancy as a precaution. Realistic take. A cosmetic peptide with a plausible mechanism and weak independent evidence. Used in multi-active anti-aging serums as an add-on, not as monotherapy.
Irritation potential
LowAllergen risk
LowPregnancy
SafeSuitable for
The Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to Wildberries, Goldapple, Letu, iHerb, Sephora and 12 more stores. This ingredient and every other one in the product show evidence-tier, allergen risk and pregnancy/lactation flags at a glance.
Acetyl Octapeptide-3 is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
Acetyl Octapeptide-3 suits: normal, dry, combination, sensitive.
Synthetic peptide, an elongated analogue of Argireline (Acetyl Hexapeptide-8).
The INCI name is Acetyl Octapeptide-3. It may also appear as: SNAP-8, Argireless, Ацетил октапептид-3.
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