Peptide library / Skin & aging / Acetyl hexapeptide-8
Acetyl hexapeptide-8
A six amino acid cosmetic peptide marketed as a gentle alternative to botulinum toxin.
Effects studied or claimed
What it is used or promoted for, and where each effect has actually been seen
- Reduce expression lines, topicalSmall human studies
How it is thought to work
It mimics part of SNAP-25, a protein involved in muscle activation, and is proposed to reduce expression lines by partially interfering with nerve signals to facial muscle.
What the evidence shows
Small studies reported modest reductions in wrinkle depth. The effect is much smaller than botulinum toxin injection.
Safety and unknowns
Well tolerated in topical products.
Regulatory status
Cosmetic ingredient, not a drug.
Regulatory status changes quickly. This entry was last reviewed on 27 October 2026. Confirm current status with the FDA before relying on it.
More in Skin & aging
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General information, not medical advice. Do not buy or inject unregulated peptides.