Argireline is the trade name for acetyl hexapeptide-8, a peptide used to target the look of expression lines. It is often called topical Botox, but that overstates it. Small studies show cosmetic promise, and it is unclear how much reaches the deeper skin layers.
What is acetyl hexapeptide-8?
It is a lab-made chain of six amino acids, modified to sit better in a skincare formula. Its sequence is often written Ac-EEMQRR. You will find it near the end of many ingredient lists because it is used at low levels.
How is it meant to work?
The theory is that it interferes with signals that make small facial muscles contract. That is why it gets compared with Botox.
The evidence for this on real faces is weaker than marketing suggests. A 2025 review says evidence for that effect from topical use remains limited and largely hypothetical. It also says the peptide reaches the upper skin but rarely the deeper layer.
What do studies show?
A wider review says preclinical and clinical work suggests it may improve the look of wrinkles, elasticity and hydration. A separate randomised study of 60 people reported improved eye-area wrinkle measurements after four weeks.
Those are encouraging results, but they are small and need repeating.
Which products contain it?
| NZ Cosmetics product | Position on ingredient list |
|---|---|
| PDRN Peptide Serum | 24 of 27 |
| Peptide Eye Cream | 51 of 57 |
Both also contain palmitoyl tripeptide-1, palmitoyl tetrapeptide-7 and palmitoyl pentapeptide-4.
Common questions
Is Argireline the same as Botox?
No. Botox is a prescription medicine injected by a health professional. Argireline is a cosmetic ingredient applied to the skin's surface, and it should not be expected to work like an injection.
What is the INCI name for Argireline?
The older INCI name is Acetyl Hexapeptide-8, while some newer labels use Acetyl Hexapeptide-3. Argireline itself is a trade name owned by the ingredient's maker.