SNAP-8
An 8-amino-acid cosmetic peptide sold as a "topical Botox" for expression lines, a longer version of Argireline.
Cosmetic ingredient (acetyl octapeptide-3) in anti-wrinkle creams; injectable forms not approved.
Used for
- Expression lines: forehead, crow’s feet
How it works
Mimics part of SNAP-25, a protein nerve endings need to release their signal to muscles, so small facial muscles contract a little less. Much weaker than botulinum toxin, and it has to get through the skin.
What the research shows
- Two small studies of microneedle patches containing it with other actives (hyaluronic acid, vitamin C derivatives, other peptides) reported fewer fine lines around the eyes. It was never tested alone, so its share of the effect is unknown.
- No studies of injected SNAP-8.
Dosing
Dosing isn’t listed on the public site. In the app, each published option is shown with its source (a drug label, a clinical guideline, a trial or community reports) and can be turned into a protocol you review.
Work out the units to draw for your vial →Side effects
- Few reported with creams; skin irritation
Cautions
- Injecting a cosmetic ingredient has no safety data.
- Research-chemical vials have no quality control: purity, dose and sterility vary. Third-party testing helps but is no guarantee.
Storage
Unmixed powder: freezer or fridge, away from light.
Once mixed with bacteriostatic water: fridge; the common rule is to use it within 28 days.
There is no label or published stability data for this one, so treat these as habits, not limits.
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Reference only, not medical advice. Written for this app from the cited research. Doses marked community-reported are not from trials.