Acetyl hexapeptide-8 is a synthetic peptide that is primarily used in skin care products. Formerly known by its original trade name Argireline and generically as acetyl hexapeptide-3, it has water-binding properties and skin-restoring abilities that play roles in helping skin look and feel younger.
Acetyl hexapeptide-8 is a neurotransmitter-inhibiting peptide, meaning it works within skin’s surface layers to interrupt the look of expression lines; however, its efficacy in this regard doesn’t replace in-office wrinkle-smoothing injectable procedures. Interestingly, research from suppliers has shown this peptide also helps support skin’s collagen and preserve a firmer appearance.
Studies have shown this peptide can penetrate further into skin and delivery greater efficacy for smoothing expression lines if specific formulary steps are followed, including accounting for the type of emulsion (a higher water content allows greater penetration). As always, this demonstrates the importance of selecting well-formulated skin care products to add to your routine.
