Acetyl Hexapeptide-8 Argireline Cosmetic Grade Anti-Wrinkle Peptide
Acetyl Hexapeptide-8 (INCI), trade-named Argireline, is a synthetic hexapeptide with the amino acid sequence Ac-Glu-Glu-Met-Gln-Arg-Arg-NH₂ (Ac-EEMQRR-NH₂), molecular formula C₃₄H₆₀N₁₄O₁₂S, and a molecular weight of 888.96 Da (CAS 616204-22-9). Developed by Lipotec (now dsm-firmenich), Argireline is the original and most widely used neurotransmitter-inhibiting peptide in cosmetics, designed to mimic the N-terminal fragment of SNAP-25 (synaptosomal-associated protein 25 kDa) — one of the three proteins that form the SNARE complex responsible for synaptic vesicle fusion and acetylcholine release at the neuromuscular junction. By competitively binding to the SNARE complex in place of SNAP-25, Acetyl Hexapeptide-8 destabilizes SNARE assembly, reducing vesicular acetylcholine release and thereby decreasing the amplitude of facial muscle contractions — softening dynamic expression lines (forehead lines, crow’s feet, frown lines) over repeated use, while allowing natural facial movement without paralysis. This mechanism parallels that of botulinum toxin (Botox) but operates through competitive inhibition rather than enzymatic cleavage, making it a safe, non-invasive, topical alternative.
In vitro studies demonstrate that Acetyl Hexapeptide-8 significantly reduces acetylcholine release in neuronal cell models, and a published clinical study (International Journal of Cosmetic Science) showed that a 10% Argireline solution applied twice daily for 30 days produced a 17% reduction in wrinkle depth around the eye area, with 47% of subjects showing visible improvement and no adverse reactions. Our Acetyl Hexapeptide-8 is manufactured by solid-phase peptide synthesis (SPPS) to ≥98% purity (HPLC), confirmed by mass spectrometry and amino acid analysis, and supplied as a white to off-white crystalline powder or as a pre-diluted aqueous solution (0.05% peptide in water/glycerin). As a leading bulk peptide supplier, we provide full CoA documentation, custom purities, and competitive pricing for skincare brands, cosmetic formulators, and contract manufacturers worldwide.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| INCI Name | Acetyl Hexapeptide-8 |
| Trade Name | Argireline® |
| CAS Number | 616204-22-9 |
| Sequence | Ac-Glu-Glu-Met-Gln-Arg-Arg-NH₂ |
| Molecular Formula | C₃₄H₆₀N₁₄O₁₂S |
| Molecular Weight | 888.96 Da |
| Purity (HPLC) | ≥ 98% |
| Identity | LC-MS, amino acid analysis |
| Appearance | White to off-white crystalline powder |
| Solubility | Freely soluble in water/glycerin; insoluble in oils |
| pH Stability | 5.0 – 6.0 (optimal); stable 4.0–7.0 |
| Temperature | Add at ≤40°C; avoid prolonged heat >60°C |
| Recommended Usage (pure peptide) | 0.01 – 0.1% in final formulation |
| Recommended Usage (0.05% solution) | 3 – 10% (delivering 0.0015–0.005% active); optimal 5% |
| Grade Options | Cosmetic grade, Research grade, High-purity ≥99% |
What Is Acetyl Hexapeptide-8 (Argireline)?
Acetyl Hexapeptide-8 is a synthetic, N-acetylated, C-amidated hexapeptide — the original “botox-like” cosmetic peptide.
N-terminal acetylation & C-terminal amidation: The N-terminal acetyl group and C-terminal amide protect the peptide from enzymatic degradation by aminopeptidases and carboxypeptidases, significantly improving skin stability and half-life — a standard modification for cosmetic peptides.
Argireline Applications
- Anti-wrinkle serums (face, eye, neck)
- Expression line treatments (forehead, frown, crow’s feet)
- Eye creams & eye serums (crow’s feet, under-eye lines)
- firming creams
- “Botox-like” / “pre-tox” skincare products
- Anti-aging moisturizers & lotions
- Sheet masks & essences
- Men’s anti-aging products (forehead/frown lines)
Frequently Asked Questions Acetyl Hexapeptide-8 (Argireline)
Q: Appearance & solubility
A: White or off‑white lyophilized powder; freely soluble in water, insoluble in oils.
Q: What cosmetic formulations is it suitable for?
A: Water‑based serums, toners, essences, creams, lotions, eye creams. Not fit for high‑temperature hot‑process; add at post‑emulsification below 45 °C.
Q: Storage condition & shelf‑life
A: Powder: Sealed, store at ‑20 °C, avoid light and moisture; shelf life 2 years. Aqueous peptide solution: 2‑8 °C refrigeration, avoid freezing. Use up quickly after opening.
Q: Can it mix with other cosmetic actives?
A: Compatible with most skincare ingredients: hyaluronic acid, matrixyl peptides, vitamin C derivatives, niacinamide. Avoid long‑term contact with strong acid / strong alkali environment.