Argireline is the trade name of the synthetic anti-aging cosmetic molecule known as acetyl hexapeptide-3. Argireline is derived from natural proteins and manufactured and patented by the Barcelona-based research laboratory Lipotec. It is a peptide or a chain made up of six amino acids and is currently one of the hot new ingredients in wrinkle cream skin care products.

You may know that, over time, stress, environmental damage and aging cause our bodies to produce less collagen.  Peptides are known to stimulate collagen production which helps to our skin to remain firm and resilient. This is one, but not the main effect, of the Argireline peptide.

How Does Argireline Work?

Muscular contractions can cause horizontal lines across the forehead, vertical and diagonal lines near the eye and mouth areas as well as vertical lines between the eyebrows.

Lipotec claims that Argireline reduces these lines and wrinkles by preventing the brain’s release of neurotransmitters that cause the facial muscles to contract. Over time, the wrinkles and fine lines begin to diminish because the repetitive motion of the facial muscles has been largely eliminated.

When applied topically Argireline has an effect on facial muscles similar to that of Botox injections.  It inhibits the chemical reactions that cause facial muscles to move or contract - for example when forming expressions such as smiling, frowning or looking surprised. 

The company claims that the product accomplishes this by preventing the release of neurotransmitters from the brain that cause facial muscle contraction.  Muscle contractions are controlled by a chemical process known as the “SNAP receptor complex,” and Argireline was designed specifically to affect this reaction. Lines and wrinkles can occur from repetitive muscle movements and it is believed that by paralyzing muscle contractions the depth of existing wrinkles can be lessened and the formation of new lines can be prevented.

Has Argeriline Been Tested?

Many tests and trials have been carried out on acetyl hexapeptide-3.  A skin topographic analysis study done on volunteers by scientific research laboratory Advancell seemed to provide support for theories of its line and wrinkle reducing properties. It should be noted that these tests were funded by the manufacturer of Argireline – Lipotec.  One other study showed a 30% reduction in mechanical lines and tension-related wrinkles after 30 days of continued use.  There are few, if any, longer-term studies published from any independent sources (not associated with Lipotech).

Although it is a recently developed compound existing trial results do suggest that in low concentrations (10% or less) acetyl hexapeptide-3 is safe and effective .  It has been shown that in larger concentrations Argireline can cause skin sagging so despite what users might believe, a higher concentration of acetyl hexapeptide-3 will not necessarily produce better results.  Because of this, the manufacturer does not recommend using concentrations of more than 10%.

Things To Consider When Purchasing A Cream That Uses Argireline:

Argireline is considered by many to be a favorable and promising alternative to BOTOX® injections and has been shown to begin reducing lines and wrinkles within minutes of application. It has become a very popular ingredient in many anti-wrinkle creams and serums.  However, one of the reasons why Botox is so effective is that it is administered directly into facial muscles. A topical preparation is unlikely to penetrate as deeply through the epidermal and dermal skin layers.

Another issue with this ingredient is its claim of efficacy. There remain very few long-term independent studies published on its effectiveness as a wrinkle fighter.  A topical preparation that can be applied so easily and with results equal to Botox would indeed be an impressive compound.  However, it remains questionable whether or not acetyl hexapeptide-3 will provide comparable results.

Before purchasing any products that include Argireline try to determine the concentration of the peptide. Raw Argireline may be purchased straight from the manufacturer - Lipotec, however, it is intended for industrial use only and users should be warned not to create their own at-home formulations.

Some products include Argireline testing data from Lipotec in support of their own products -  regardless of the concentration and without reference to how the peptide could react with other included ingredients.