Skin & cosmetic
Acetyl Hexapeptide-3
Argireline
Often called 'topical Botox.' A peptide that reduces the appearance of expression lines by inhibiting the neurotransmitters that cause facial muscle contractions.
Also known as: Acetyl Hexapeptide-8, Ac-EEMQRR
- Status
- Acetyl Hexapeptide-3 is used as a cosmetic or over-the-counter ingredient, not as an approved drug.
- Evidence
- Early human data. Only small or early-phase studies in people so far.
- Half-life
- N/A (topical, continuous use)
- How it's taken
- Topical serum
- Mechanism
- Cosmetic / topical
- Pathways
- Neuromuscular Junction
How Acetyl Hexapeptide-3 works
Blocks the SNARE complex that enables neurotransmitter release at the neuromuscular junction. By reducing the signal that tells facial muscles to contract, it softens expression lines without injections.
What research has looked at
- Reduces expression wrinkles
- Non-invasive alternative to Botox
- Targets forehead and crow's feet
- Can be used daily in skincare
- No needles required
Evidence level: Early human data. Only small or early-phase studies in people so far. These are areas studied or reported, not promised effects.
Reported side effects and risks
- Mild skin irritation in sensitive individuals
- Slight skin sagging with overuse (debated)
- Effects are modest compared to Botox
- Results vary between individuals
- Needs consistent daily use
Sources
- PubMed research on acetyl hexapeptide argireline wrinkle · NIH · National Library of Medicine
- StatPearls / NCBI Bookshelf on acetyl hexapeptide 3 · NCBI Bookshelf
- DrugBank record for argireline · DrugBank
Track Acetyl Hexapeptide-3 in Peptide Vault
Log every dose, set reminders on your own schedule, rotate injection sites and keep your vials organized. Peptide Vault records what you enter. It doesn't recommend compounds or doses. iPhone, on-device.
Related compounds
Acetyl Hexapeptide-3 FAQ
What is Acetyl Hexapeptide-3?
Often called 'topical Botox.' A peptide that reduces the appearance of expression lines by inhibiting the neurotransmitters that cause facial muscle contractions.
How does Acetyl Hexapeptide-3 work?
Blocks the SNARE complex that enables neurotransmitter release at the neuromuscular junction. By reducing the signal that tells facial muscles to contract, it softens expression lines without injections.
Is Acetyl Hexapeptide-3 FDA approved?
No. Acetyl Hexapeptide-3 is used as a cosmetic or over-the-counter ingredient, not as an approved drug. Evidence level: early human data. Only small or early-phase studies in people so far.
What is the half-life of Acetyl Hexapeptide-3?
Reported half-life: N/A (topical, continuous use).
How is Acetyl Hexapeptide-3 taken?
Topical serum.
What side effects have been reported with Acetyl Hexapeptide-3?
Reported in the sources: Mild skin irritation in sensitive individuals; Slight skin sagging with overuse (debated); Effects are modest compared to Botox; Results vary between individuals; Needs consistent daily use.
Educational summary compiled from the sources listed above. Not medical advice. Peptide Vault does not sell, source or recommend any compound. Talk to a qualified clinician before starting or changing anything.