Skin

SNAP-8

Octapeptide · SNAP-25 N-terminus analogue · 8 amino acids

FDA · NOT REVIEWED (COSMETIC)

Half-life

~3 hours

Short

minsdays

Route

Topical cream/serum

Evidence

Preclinical only

Risk

Standard

Overview

Known for

Anti-wrinkle peptide. Works similarly to Botox by inhibiting SNARE complex formation, reducing muscle contraction that causes expression lines. Topical or injectable. Primarily cosmetic.

Mechanism

Acetyl octapeptide-3 — competes with SNAP-25 in SNARE complex to reduce muscle contraction signals. 'Topical Botox' — relaxes expression lines.

Key facts

Format
Lyophilized powder
Mechanism targets
Classification
Secondary
Supply & nature
ExogenousExogenous
FDA category
Not reviewed (cosmetic)

Evidence & standing

Evidence base
Preclinical only
Risk level
Standard
Best studies
5 references
  • Lipotec/Lubrizol proprietary research — Acetyl octapeptide-3
  • Cosmetic use only — topical 'Botox alternative'
  • Limited peer-reviewed independent research
  • NOT FDA APPROVED
  • Primarily cosmeceutical industry data

Dosage & protocol

Typical dose
50-100mcg
Research range
10–50 µg
Cycle
Daily topical application
Onset
21 days first effects
Full effect
70 days
Half-life
~2-4h (topical)
~Hours (topical compound, not injectable)
Protocol

Topical: apply to wrinkle areas. Injectable: 50-100mcg SubQ to target areas. Limited dosing data for injection.

Time to effects

EARLY: 2-4 weeks (topical)

FULL: 8-12 weeks

Topical application:

Week 2-4: Subtle softening of expression lines in application area.

Week 4-8: Noticeable reduction in fine lines and wrinkles.

Week 8-12: Maximum effect — significant wrinkle reduction in target areas.

Effects are temporary — similar to Botox but milder. Continuous use required to maintain results.

Recommended vial
  • 10mg (only size)

Primarily topical use in serums. Injectable at 100mcg/day = 100 days ⚠️. Shelf life less of a concern for topical preparations.

Reference figures only

Dosing reflects published laboratory protocols and is not guidance for use in any living subject.

Safety

Reversibility
Fully Reversible
Side effects

Skin irritation (rare), minimal systemic absorption

Interactions

None significant (topical only, minimal systemic absorption)

Handle with research caution

No strict contraindications with other peptides on this list.

Storage & handling

Lyophilised
12–24 months
Room temp
Reconstituted
4–6 weeks
2–8°C