Acetyl Hexapeptide-3, also known as Acetyl Hexapeptide-8 or Argireline or peptide K8 — A synthetically produced neuropeptide which is often used as a muscle relaxer. It blocks signals from the nerves to the muscle, temporarily stopping the release of neurotransmitters responsible for muscle contractions that can lead to fine lines and wrinkles formation, while also helping reduce the appearance of existing wrinkles. The affected muscle can no longer contract. This reduction in intensity of facial muscle contractions reduces and prevents the formation of dynamic wrinkles that make your skin look aged. In essence, it is a shortened peptide sequence of Botox™ that is able to be used over-the-counter. For use on expression lines, or wrinkles like forehead lines, crow’s feet (lines around the eye) and frown lines. Wrinkles caused by sun damage and gravity will not respond to muscle relaxers.
Acetyl hexapeptide works differently for different persons. A study in the International Journal of Cosmetic Science showed a 10% concentration of topically-applied acetyl hexapeptide-3 (argireline) reduces wrinkles by 30% over a 30-day period. Yet these studies also demonstrate that some people only experience an 8% reduction in wrinkles over the same course of time. Some people do not have any results at all after using acetyl hexapeptide-3. It seems that different people’s skin absorbs acetyl hexapeptide differently, resulting in varied efficacy.