Peptide Encyclopaedia
Acetyl octapeptide-3
Also known as SNAP-8, Snap-8.
Cosmetic / topical context. Some finished serums in the shop use related cosmetic peptides — they are leave-on cosmetics, not injectable medicines. View related products
At-a-glance profile
- Classification
- Cosmetic SNAP-25 analogue (topical)
- Approval status
- Cosmetic
- Research status
- Investigational / reference listing.
- Molecular formula
- Insufficient reliable evidence identified.
- Molecular weight
- Insufficient reliable evidence identified.
- Sequence
- Acetylated octapeptide related to SNAP-25 fragments; longer analogue of acetyl hexapeptide-8.
- Primary biological target
- Insufficient reliable evidence identified.
- Half-life
- Insufficient reliable evidence identified.
- Routes investigated
- Insufficient reliable evidence identified.
- Human evidence level
- C — Limited or early human evidence
What is it?
A topical cosmetic peptide for the look of expression lines. Supplier ‘Snap-8 vials’ for injection are not the same as a leave-on cosmetic and are not sold here.
Mechanism of action
Proposed SNARE-related topical mechanism; clinical effect sizes are modest versus prescription neuromodulators.
Intended for intact skin as a cosmetic.
What is it being studied for?
- Appearance of expression lines
Investigational findings are not proven clinical benefits unless an authority has labelled that indication.
Evidence level
Overall human evidence grade: C · Limited or early human evidence
Human research
Evidence is mainly cosmetic or ingredient-supplier studies, not pharmaceutical Phase 3 programmes.
Preclinical research
Animal, cell and in-vitro findings are listed separately from human effects.
In-vitro and small dermal models are commonly cited by manufacturers.
Doses reported in published research
This section does not provide personalised medical dosing. Values are those reported in papers or protocols. Animal mg/kg doses are not converted to human doses.
Doses reported in human studies
Insufficient reliable evidence identified.
Preclinical / animal study dosing
Insufficient reliable evidence identified.
Pharmacokinetics
Reliable human pharmacokinetic data were not identified for this encyclopaedia entry, or are limited to product information for approved presentations.
Safety
Topical irritation is possible. Do not inject cosmetic ingredients.
Unknowns. Absence of a published harm signal is not evidence of safety.
Contraindications. Hypersensitivity to the ingredient or formulation. Not for broken skin unless a clinician directs.
Regulatory status
Cosmetic ingredient / branded cosmetic active. Not an approved systemic medicine.
Permitted in cosmetics when formulated and advertised within cosmetic rules. Cellular Sequence does not sell research-chemical injectables of these actives.
Citations
[1] Encyclopaedia note
Encyclopaedia note
For educational and research reference only. This page summarises published scientific literature and does not constitute medical advice, prescribing information or a recommendation to use an investigational compound. Research doses shown describe doses reported in published studies and are not personalised dosing instructions.
Last reviewed 2026-09-13. Research areas: Skin & Hair · Compare peptides