Acetyl hexapeptide-8 is a topical hexapeptide that inhibits the SNAP25 component (a protein) of another family of proteins, the SNARE. Being injectable, the concern was to investigate any significant adverse events. In a double-blind, placebo-controlled study, no adverse events were reported (1).

Pre-occupancy is that peptides in creams marketed as anti-aging can penetrate the deep layers of the skin and potentially stimulate biological activity. This other study did not detect peptide under the skin (2).

References_______________________________

(1) Pilot study of topical acetyl hexapeptide-8 in the treatment for blepharospasm in patients receiving botulinum toxin therapy.
Lungu C, Considine E, Zahir S, Ponsati B, Arrastia S, Hallett M.
Eur J Neurol. 2013 Mar;20(3):515-8. doi: 10.1111/ene.12009.

(2) In vitro skin penetration of acetyl hexapeptide-8 from a cosmetic formulation.
Kraeling ME, Zhou W, Wang P, Ogunsola OA.
Cutan Ocul Toxicol. 2015 Mar;34(1):46-52. doi: 10.3109/15569527.2014.894521.

Acetyl hexapeptide-8 is a hexapeptide composed of six amino acids and is a component used in anti-aging products, generally in a percentage of 10%.

Acetyl hexapeptide studies

Molecular Formula: C₃₄H₆₀N₁₄O₁₂S

Empirical Formula (Hill Notation): C₃₄H₆₀N₁₄O₁₂S · xC₂HF₃O₂

Molecular Weight: 889 g/mol

CAS: 616204-22-9

Synonyns:

• Argireline
• Ac-EEMQRR-NH2 trifluoroacetate salt
• Acetyl Hexapeptide-3
• Acetyl hexapeptide
• Hexapeptide 3
• (6S,9S,12S,15S,18S,21S)-21-Acetamido-1-amino-12-(3-amino-3-oxopropyl)-6-carbamoyl-18-(2-carboxyethyl)-9-(3-guanidinopropyl)-1-imino-15-(2-(methylthio)ethyl)-8,11,14,17,20-pentaoxo-2,7,10,13,16,19-hexaazatetracosan-24-oic acid