SNAP-8
also known as Acetyl Octapeptide-3, Acetyl Glutamyl Heptapeptide-1, SNAP-8 peptide
Synthetic 8-amino-acid peptide derived from the N-terminal region of SNAP-25, a component of the neuronal SNARE complex. Inhibits SNARE-mediated vesicular neurotransmitter release at the neuromuscular junction when applied topically, reducing muscle contraction intensity and facial wrinkle depth. Marketed as a non-injectable alternative to botulinum toxin for cosmetic anti-aging applications.
At a glance
Topical · Facial application · Twice daily
Primary target — SNARE complex (SNAP-25 competitive binding site).
Pathway — Acetyl octapeptide-3 → SNARE complex disruption → Reduced vesicular fusion → Decreased acetylcholine release → Muscle relaxation.
Downstream effect — Transient reduction in neuromuscular signal transmission, decreased muscle contraction amplitude, wrinkle depth reduction.
Origin — Synthetic peptide derived from N-terminal fragment of SNAP-25 protein (synaptosomal-associated protein 25 kDa).
Feedback intact — N/A — topical cosmetic, no systemic endocrine axis.
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Typical concentration | 2–10% in cosmetic formulations [lupin-2024][raikou-2017]Commercial products typically use 5–10%. |
| Application frequency | Twice daily (morning and evening) [lupin-2024] |
| Treatment duration | 20–60 days for visible effect [raikou-2017]Skin microtopography improvements measured at 20-day intervals. |
| Formulation type | Oil-in-water emulsion, serum, cream |
| Application site | Facial skin — glabellar lines, crow's feet, forehead |
| Evidence basis | RCT, in vitro skin penetration studies |
| Onset of effect | Visible reduction in wrinkle depth by day 20–28 [raikou-2017] |
Reconstitution
A pure mass-to-volume utility. Enter what you have in the vial; the atlas computes the volume per dose. No prescription information.
Not applicable — SNAP-8 is a cosmetic topical peptide for wrinkle reduction, not lipolysis.
| Outcome | Finding |
|---|
- — Known hypersensitivity to acetyl octapeptide-3 or formulation excipients
- — Active skin infections or open wounds at application site
- — Neuromuscular disorders (theoretical concern, no documented cases)
- 01Cleansing
Wash face with gentle cleanser and pat dry. Remove makeup and surface oils to optimize peptide contact.
- 02Application
Apply 1–2 drops or pea-sized amount of SNAP-8 serum or cream to target areas (forehead, glabellar lines, crow's feet). Gently massage until absorbed.
- 03Frequency
Twice daily — morning and evening. Allow 2–3 minutes for absorption before applying additional skincare products.
- 04Layering
Apply before heavier creams or occlusive moisturizers. Peptides penetrate best from water-based serums on clean skin.
- 05Storage
Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight. Refrigeration may extend shelf life of formulations containing unstable peptides.
- 06Duration
Consistent use for 20–60 days required for visible wrinkle reduction. Effects are temporary and reverse upon discontinuation.
Sources
of 46 rendered claims carry a resolvable citation.
- [kluczyk-2021]Kluczyk 2021 — Argireline: Needle-Free Botox as Analytical Challenge.
journal, 2021 - [kraeling-2015]Kraeling 2015 — In vitro skin penetration of acetyl hexapeptide-8 from a cosmetic formulation.
journal, 2015 - [lupin-2024]Lupin 2024 — INDIVIDUAL ARTICLE: Real-World Clinical Experience With a Neuro-Peptide Serum in Combination With Botulinum Toxin Type-A Injections.
journal, 2024 - [olsson-2024]Olsson 2024 — Public Interest in Acetyl Hexapeptide-8: Longitudinal Analysis.
journal, 2024 - [raikou-2017]Raikou 2017 — The efficacy study of the combination of tripeptide-10-citrulline and acetyl hexapeptide-3. A prospective, randomized controlled study.
journal, 2017