Comparison
Argireline vs. SNAP-8
Two peptides side-by-side — identity, evidence base, legal status and known adverse events.
Identity
Category
Cosmetic
Cosmetic
CAS no.
616204-22-9
868844-74-0
Molecular weight
888.99 g/mol
1075.16 g/mol
Half-life
no data
no data
Sequence
Ac-Glu-Glu-Met-Gln-Arg-Arg-NH2Ac-Glu-Glu-Met-Gln-Arg-Arg-Ala-Asp-NH2Mechanism of action
Argireline
Argireline is a synthetic hexapeptide whose sequence corresponds to the N-terminus of the SNAP-25 protein. In vitro it has been shown to competitively inhibit SNARE complex formation (necessary for vesicle fusion in neurotransmitter release). Topical application is intended — given very limited skin permeation — to attenuate cholinergic signalling at the neuromuscular endplate. The effect is orders of magnitude weaker than intramuscular botulinum toxin; the clinical translatability of the in-vitro observations to the skin microenvironment is contested.
SNAP-8
SNAP-8 is an octapeptide variant of Argireline. The sequence corresponds to the N-terminus of the SNAP-25 protein. As with Argireline, the postulated mechanism is competitive inhibition of the SNARE complex needed for acetylcholine vesicle fusion at the neuromuscular endplate. According to the manufacturer the two extra C-terminal amino acids increase SNARE-complex affinity — there are individual industry studies on this but no independent systematic confirmation.
Evidence base
Highest evidence
Human trial
Human trial
Studies
4
3
of which in humans
3
1
Effects recorded
3
3
Open conflicts
1
0
Documented adverse events
1
1
Legal status
Full entries
Frequently asked questions
- What is the difference between Argireline and SNAP-8?
- Argireline is classified as "Cosmetic", while SNAP-8 is classified as "Cosmetic". Argireline: Synthetic hexapeptide marketed as a topical anti-wrinkle ingredient (e.g. by Lipotec/Lubrizol). Mechanism modelled on the SNAP-25-blocking action of botulinum toxin, but with substantially lower potency and without intramuscular effect. EU-compliant as a cosmetic ingredient (CosIng), not approved as a medicine. SNAP-8: Synthetic octapeptide marketed as a topical anti-wrinkle ingredient (Centerchem/Lipotec). Structurally related to Argireline (Acetyl Hexapeptide-3) but with two additional C-terminal amino acids. Manufacturer marketing positions SNAP-8 as an 'improved' Argireline variant. This page contrasts both neutrally and source-based — with no usage or dosing recommendation.
- Which peptide is better supported by science, Argireline or SNAP-8?
- The highest available evidence level is "Human trial" for Argireline and "Human trial" for SNAP-8. A higher evidence level means more robust data, but says nothing about suitability for an individual. The full body of evidence is on each peptide's own page.
- What is the legal status of Argireline and SNAP-8 in Germany and the United States?
- Germany: Argireline — Unapproved, SNAP-8 — Unapproved. United States: Argireline — Unapproved, SNAP-8 — Unapproved. These are factual summaries with source and review date on the individual pages.