Acetyl Hexapeptide-8 — INCI name Acetyl Hexapeptide-8, better known by the trade name Argireline, CAS 616204-22-9 — is one of the most widely used synthetic peptides in modern skincare. It is a hexapeptide (sequence Ac-Glu-Glu-Met-Gln-Arg-Arg-NH2) developed to mimic the N-terminal end of SNAP-25, a protein involved in muscle-contraction signalling. In cosmetic formulation it is positioned as a topical "expression-line" active for anti-wrinkle and smoothing products.
Key specifications
- CAS No.: 616204-22-9
- INCI: Acetyl Hexapeptide-8
- Appearance: white to off-white powder (also supplied as a 0.05% aqueous trade solution)
- Purity: cosmetic grade typically ≥ 95–98% by HPLC
- Solubility: water-soluble
Typical use levels
Formulators commonly use Acetyl Hexapeptide-8 at 3–10% when working with the standard 0.05% trade solution, or at the equivalent active level when compounding from powder. It is usually added to the water phase, post-emulsification, below 40°C to protect the peptide. Target a mildly acidic to neutral pH (around 4–7) and avoid prolonged high-temperature processing.
Formulation notes
- Add late and cool: introduce into the cool-down or water phase to avoid heat degradation.
- Watch the pH: extremes of pH can hydrolyse the peptide over shelf life.
- Compatibility: generally compatible with humectants (glycerin, hyaluronic acid) and common actives; run a stability and preservative-efficacy check on your final formula.
- Storage of the raw material: keep sealed, cool and dry, away from light.
How to qualify a bulk supplier
Because peptides are high-value actives, documentation matters as much as price. When you request a quote, ask for:
- A batch-specific COA with assay by HPLC and the test method stated;
- MSDS/SDS and, ideally, an HPLC chromatogram;
- Clear MOQ, packaging options (e.g. 1 kg / 5 kg / 25 kg) and lead time;
- A small evaluation sample so your R&D team can bench-test purity and performance.
WYOO manufactures and exports cosmetic-grade Acetyl Hexapeptide-8 with COA and MSDS on every batch, MOQ from 1 kg and worldwide export by T/T or L/C. Request a sample and current pricing to benchmark against your existing source.