Argireline

In simple words

Argireline is a short peptide made of six amino acids that is added to creams and serums. It is studied as a "peptide Botox": an ingredient that temporarily relaxes the facial expression muscles and reduces wrinkles.

What this molecule is

Ac-Glu-Glu-Met-Gln-Arg-Arg-NH₂ — 6 aa, N-acetylated. A mimetic of the N-terminal domain of SNAP-25.

Why it is studied

"Peptide Botox" — a topical SNARE inhibitor for expression wrinkles. Placebo-controlled RCT: 48.9% vs 0% anti-wrinkle effect. Wrinkle depth reduced by 17–30% over 30 days at 10% concentration. Reversible and safe effect.

How it works

Competitively inhibits SNAP-25 in the SNARE complex (SNAP-25+Syntaxin+VAMP) → blocks fusion of synaptic vesicles with the presynaptic membrane → ↓acetylcholine release → ↓contractile activity of facial expression muscles. Unlike botulinum toxin: extracellular, reversible, topical.

Doses used in studies

Studies used 5–10% in an emulsion or serum twice a day for a 28–30-day course. Clinical result at 10% concentration: −30% wrinkle depth over 30 days.

Combined with in studies

• Matrixyl — muscle relaxation + collagen — the golden duo
• SNAP-8 — enhanced SNARE blockade
• Hyaluronic acid
• Botox — NOT combined on the same areas

Level of evidence

Level A Human clinical trials. There are randomized controlled trials (RCTs), or the compound has been approved by a regulatory agency. The most reliable level. Placebo-controlled RCT + numerous clinical studies.

Important to know

⚠️ Cosmetic ingredient for external use. Data provided for informational purposes. Consulting a dermatologist is recommended.

Studies in PubMed

1. The anti-wrinkle efficacy of argireline, a synthetic hexapeptide, in Chinese subjects: a randomized, placebo-controlled study. (Am J Clin Dermatol, 2013)
2. A synthetic hexapeptide (Argireline) with antiwrinkle activity. (Int J Cosmet Sci, 2002)
3. Investigating the effects of Argireline in a skin serum containing hyaluronic acids on skin surface wrinkles using the Visia® Complexion Analysis camera system for objective skin analysis. (GMS Interdiscip Plast Reconstr Surg DGPW, 2023)
4. Skin scars and wrinkles temporary camouflage in dermatology and oncoesthetics: focus on acetyl hexapeptide-8 (Clin Ter, 2020)
5. The study of cellular cytotoxicity of argireline - an anti-aging peptide. (Acta Biochim Pol, 2014)
6. Enhanced Skin Permeation of Anti-wrinkle Peptides via Molecular Modification. (Sci Rep, 2018)