Argireline
Also known as: Acetyl Hexapeptide-3, Ac-EEMQRR
Acetyl Hexapeptide-3 is a synthetic topical peptide that mimics the N-terminal sequence of SNAP-25 (soluble NSF attachment protein receptor), a protein involved in neuromuscular acetylcholine release. By competing with endogenous SNAP-25, Argireline reduces the frequency and intensity of muscle contractions in facial muscles, thereby diminishing the appearance of dynamic expression lines, particularly on the forehead and around the eyes. It is marketed as a non-invasive, topical alternative to botulinum toxin injections.
Research Status
Moderate Clinical Data
For research purposes only. Not approved for human use. Not medical advice.
Research Areas
Side Effects
May occur in individuals with sensitive skin or when first introducing the product. Typically resolves within 1–2 weeks with continued use as skin acclimates. If irritation persists, reduce application frequency to once daily or discontinue use.
Some formulations may have a drying effect, particularly in individuals with dry or sensitive skin. Use a hydrating moisturizer after application. Ensure the product is applied to damp skin to enhance penetration and reduce dryness.
Rare but possible in individuals with known sensitivities to peptides or other formulation ingredients (preservatives, emulsifiers). Perform a patch test on a small area of skin 24–48 hours before full-face application. Discontinue use if rash, itching, or swelling develops.
Topical application results in negligible systemic absorption due to the peptide's size and the skin barrier. No systemic side effects are expected from topical use at recommended concentrations.
Some formulations may contain photosensitizing ingredients. Use broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30+) during the day. If photosensitivity occurs, discontinue use and consult a dermatologist.
Dosing Reference
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Dose range | 5-10 % |
| Frequency | 2x daily |
| Timing | Morning and evening application to clean, dry skin |
| Route | Topical |
Topical application only. Concentration in cosmetic formulations typically 5–10% w/w. Results are gradual and cumulative; consistent daily application for 2–4 weeks required before visible improvement. Peak effects observed at 4–8 weeks of continuous use. Apply to clean, dry skin before moisturizer or sunscreen. Do not apply to broken or irritated skin.
Research disclaimer
Figures drawn from published research literature and community logs. Not clinical recommendations. Consult a qualified professional. Research use only.
Reconstitution Guide
Do not use saline or bacteriostatic saline — use only bacteriostatic water for reconstitution
Do not shake the vial vigorously; gentle swirling prevents peptide degradation
Discard immediately if the solution appears cloudy, discolored, or contains visible particles
Use within 30 days of reconstitution when stored at 2–8°C
Do not freeze the reconstituted solution; freezing may denature the peptide
Use the PeptideVolt reconstitution calculator for your exact concentration
Molecular and Pharmacological Data
| Molecular weight | 823 |
| Sequence | Ac-EEMQRR |
Argireline is a hexapeptide that mimics the N-terminal sequence of SNAP-25, a protein essential for acetylcholine release at the neuromuscular junction. When applied topically to facial skin, it penetrates the stratum corneum and competes with endogenous SNAP-25 for binding to SNARE complex proteins, thereby reducing the frequency and amplitude of muscle contractions in facial muscles. This leads to a gradual smoothing of dynamic expression lines, particularly in areas of repetitive movement such as the forehead and crow's feet region.
SNARE Complex Inhibition
Argireline competes with native SNAP-25 for binding to syntaxin and VAMP proteins in the SNARE complex, disrupting the formation of the ternary complex required for synaptic vesicle fusion and acetylcholine release.
Neuromuscular Junction Modulation
By reducing acetylcholine availability at the neuromuscular junction, Argireline decreases the frequency of muscle action potentials, resulting in reduced muscle contraction force and frequency in facial muscles.
Topical Skin Penetration
Argireline penetrates the stratum corneum through intercellular lipid pathways and hair follicles; efficacy depends on formulation (emulsifiers, penetration enhancers) and skin barrier integrity.
- Argireline is a hexapeptide (6 amino acids) with an N-terminal acetyl group
- It does not cross the blood-brain barrier in significant amounts when applied topically
- Topical penetration is limited; systemic absorption is minimal and clinically insignificant
- Effects are reversible and dependent on continuous application; discontinuation results in gradual return to baseline muscle contraction
- In vitro studies show 30–40% reduction in acetylcholine release at concentrations of 10–100 μM
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View all peptidesResearch Use Only. All content on this page is provided for informational and educational purposes related to scientific research. Argireline is not approved for human use by the FDA or any equivalent regulatory body. This is not medical advice. Do not use any substance discussed here for therapeutic, diagnostic, or preventative purposes. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any health-related decisions. The Peptide Volt does not endorse the use of any research chemicals. 18+ only.