SNAP-8
Also called Acetyl octapeptide-3
An eight-amino-acid cosmetic ingredient used in anti-wrinkle products. Most positive results come from multi-ingredient products, so they do not show what SNAP-8 does alone.
Overview
What it is
A topical peptide related to Argireline (acetyl hexapeptide-8). It is a cosmetic ingredient, not a drug.
How it works
It is proposed to interfere with the SNARE protein complex that helps nerves signal muscles to contract, softening expression lines. Whether a cream delivers enough to the right place is part of the open question.
What the research shows
A 2024 study of 24 adults compared a microneedle patch with SNAP-8, a vitamin C derivative and another active against a hyaluronic acid patch; several wrinkle measures improved, but elasticity did not. A 12-week patch study combining SNAP-8 with other peptides also improved measures and had industry funding. Argireline trials are mixed.
Studied for
- Wrinkle appearancecombination products, small studies
Safety and regulatory status
Safety and side effects
Small studies reported good short-term tolerance. Any product can cause irritation or allergy, often from fragrance or preservatives. Patch-test new products and stop if redness, itching or swelling develops.
Regulatory status
A cosmetic ingredient. Cosmetics do not receive FDA premarket approval.
Mixing and dosing reference
Reference information only. Read before using this section.
SNAP-8 Dosage: 10 mg Topical Research Guide
- Vial
- 10 mg SNAP-8
- Add diluent
- Not reconstituted for injection; mixed into a topical base
- Concentration
- About 0.0015% to 0.005% active in the finished cream
- 1 unit (U-100)
- Not applicable (topical)
- Route
- Topical
- Whole 10 mg vial at 0.005%
- 200 g final batch weight
- 50 g batch at 0.005%
- 2.5 mg active peptide
- Developer reference range
- About 0.0015% to 0.005% active peptide In the finished topical formula
Whole 10 mg Vial Concentration Calculator
| Final Batch | Active Peptide | Active % w/w | ppm | Research Context |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 30 g | 10 mg | 0.0333% w/w | 333 ppm | Calculation example |
| 50 g | 10 mg | 0.0200% w/w | 200 ppm | Calculation example |
| 100 g | 10 mg | 0.0100% w/w | 100 ppm | Calculation example |
| 333.3 g | 10 mg | 0.0030% w/w | 30 ppm | Mid-range calculation |
Small-Batch SNAP-8 Research Calculations
| Final Batch | 0.0015% Active | 0.0030% Active | 0.0050% Active |
|---|---|---|---|
| 30 g | 0.45 mg | 0.90 mg | 1.50 mg |
| 50 g | 0.75 mg | 1.50 mg | 2.50 mg |
| 100 g | 1.50 mg | 3.00 mg | 5.00 mg |
Worked 1 mg/mL Stock Measurement Example
| Final Batch | Stock for 0.0015% | Stock for 0.0030% | Stock for 0.0050% |
|---|---|---|---|
| 30 g | 0.45 mL | 0.90 mL | 1.50 mL |
| 50 g | 0.75 mL | 1.50 mL | 2.50 mL |
| 100 g | 1.50 mL | 3.00 mL | 5.00 mL |
Human SNAP-8 Research Formulations
| Study | Formulation | Schedule | Design Context | Evidence Limit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shin et al. (2024) | 350 micrometer dissolving patch with 0.03% SNAP-8, 5% AA2G, 4% cyclic LPA, and 90% HA | Overnight nightly through day 14, then every third day through day 28 | 24 enrolled and 21 completed a split-face active-versus-placebo comparison | Combination device; SNAP-8’s independent contribution cannot be isolated |
| Avcil et al. (2020) | HA microneedle patch with SNAP-8, other peptides, adenosine, and seaweed extracts | 12-week study | Fine lines, hydration, dermal density, thickness, and tolerability measures | Multi-active product; SNAP-8 concentration was not disclosed in the abstract |
| Draelos et al. (2016) | Multi-peptide serum containing SNAP-8 within a supporting skincare regimen | Morning and evening for 12 weeks after a 2-week washout | 29 women; investigator grading and participant questionnaires | Open label, no control, multiple peptides and supporting products |
| Moy et al. (2023) | Proprietary multi-peptide facial serum containing acetyl octapeptide-3 | Twice daily for 12 weeks | 31 women completed dermatologist grading, imaging, hydration, and questionnaires | Uncontrolled, multi-ingredient, and company funded |
Protocol source: PeptideDosages.com
Common questions
Is SNAP-8 a Botox alternative?
It has not been compared directly with Botox and should not be considered equivalent.
Does it build collagen?
The studies did not isolate a collagen effect from SNAP-8 alone.
Is it the same as GHK-Cu?
No. They are different compounds.
Related in Skin and Hair
Sources and further reading (6)
- Shin JY, et al. Dissolving microneedle patch with dual anti-wrinkle effects. Ann Dermatol, 2024.
- Avcil M, et al. Bioactive peptides on hyaluronic acid microneedle patches. J Cosmet Dermatol, 2020.
- Wang Y, et al. Anti-wrinkle efficacy of Argireline. Am J Clin Dermatol, 2013.
- American Academy of Dermatology. How to test skin care products.
- FDA. Wrinkle treatments and other anti-aging products.
- Source summary: PeptideDosages.com research overview (rewritten for NVO).
Laboratory research material: SNAP-8 Research Use Only