Acetyl hexapeptide-3
Also known as: Ac-Glu-Glu-Met-Gln-Arg-Arg-NH2, Ac-HEX-3, Ac-hexapeptide-3, Acetyl hexapeptide-8, Acetyl Hexapeptide‑3, Acetyl‑hexapeptide‑3, AH3, Argireline
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Summary
Acetyl hexapeptide-3 is a synthetic hexapeptide incorporated into topical anti‑aging cosmetics. It is marketed for wrinkle‑reduction and skin‑firming effects, though clinical evidence is limited.
Mechanism of Action
Proposed to modulate neurotransmitter release in dermal cells, reducing muscle contraction and wrinkle formation (similar to SNAP‑25 inhibition).
Routes of Administration
Goals & Uses
- Skin tighteningCosmeticLow
- Skin texture improvementAesthetics / Anti AgingLow
- Reduction of facial expression wrinklesAesthetics / Anti AgingModerate
- wrinkle reductionCosmeticLow
- Non-invasive alternative to botulinum toxinAestheticsLow
Contraindications
- Application to broken or irritated skinDermatologicalModerate
- known hypersensitivity to peptideImmunologicModerate
- Known hypersensitivity to peptide componentsAllergyHigh
Adverse Effects
- Contact dermatitisDermatologicalRare
- Tingling or stinging sensationDermatologicalUncommon
- Skin irritation / erythemaDermatologicalUncommon
- Skin irritationDermatologicUncommon
Drug Interactions
- Botulinum toxin injections (topical co-use)Low
Population Constraints
- PregnancyReproductive SafetyRelative
- Infants and young childrenPediatricRelative
- Pregnant or lactating womenReproductiveRelative
Regulatory Status
- European UnionUnapprovedRegulated under cosmetic regulations, not a medicinal product.
- United StatesUnapprovedClassed as a cosmetic ingredient, not evaluated by FDA as a drug.
- United KingdomApprovedApproved: Cosmetic ingredient for topical anti-aging productsRegulated under UK cosmetics regulation post-Brexit; permitted as cosmetic ingredient.
Regulated as a cosmetic ingredient in the US (FDA), EU (ECHA/SCCS), and UK. Not classified as a drug. No therapeutic claims are permitted. Listed as safe for cosmetic use at concentrations typically up to 10%.
Evidence & Sources
No sources recorded yet.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Acetyl hexapeptide-3?
Acetyl hexapeptide-3 is a synthetic hexapeptide incorporated into topical anti‑aging cosmetics. It is marketed for wrinkle‑reduction and skin‑firming effects, though clinical evidence is limited.
What is Acetyl hexapeptide-3 used for?
Acetyl hexapeptide-3 is educationally associated with: Skin tightening, Skin texture improvement, Reduction of facial expression wrinkles, wrinkle reduction, Non-invasive alternative to botulinum toxin. Educational only — not medical advice.
How is Acetyl hexapeptide-3 administered?
Recorded routes of administration: Topical.
What are the potential side effects of Acetyl hexapeptide-3?
Reported adverse effects include: Contact dermatitis, Tingling or stinging sensation, Skin irritation / erythema, Skin irritation. This list is not exhaustive — consult a qualified clinician.
Who should avoid Acetyl hexapeptide-3?
Recorded contraindications: Application to broken or irritated skin, known hypersensitivity to peptide, Known hypersensitivity to peptide components. Consult a qualified clinician before use.