SNAP-8
A cosmetic 'topical Botox-like' peptide — studied as a cream, not an injection.
Overview
SNAP-8 is an eight-amino-acid peptide made for skincare. It is a longer version of Argireline (acetyl hexapeptide-3) and is marketed to soften expression lines like crow's feet and forehead wrinkles. Nearly all data comes from the ingredient's manufacturer and lab work. It is studied as a topical cream or serum — injection is not how it has been tested.
How it works
Mimics part of the SNAP-25 protein and competes for a spot in the SNARE complex, the machinery nerve endings use to release signals to muscle. In lab tests this slightly dampens signal release, which in theory relaxes the small muscles behind expression lines. It is far weaker than botulinum toxin, and how well it penetrates skin is debated.
Evidence
1/5
Mostly in-vitro work and manufacturer-run cosmetic tests. Very little independent, peer-reviewed human data. No injection studies.
Half-life
Not characterized in humans
Known as
Acetyl octapeptide-3, Acetyl glutamyl heptapeptide-3
Compound facts
- Type
- Synthetic neuropeptide
- CAS Number
- 868844-74-0
- Molecular Formula
- C42H72N16O15S
- Molecular Weight
- 1073.2 g/mol
- Amino Acids
- 8
- Sequence
- Ac-Glu-Glu-Met-Gln-Arg-Arg-Ala-Asp-NH2
Reported benefits
Softer expression lines
Manufacturer cosmetic tests of topical creams report reduced wrinkle depth over about 4 weeks; not independently confirmed in rigorous trials.
Reduced neurotransmitter release
Lowers signal release in nerve-cell models in the lab.
“Anecdotal” means reported by users, not shown in controlled trials.
Community-reported regimens
Not recommendations. These are commonly cited ranges, shown so you can see what real-world use looks like.
| Plan | Dose | Frequency | Duration | Route |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Topical serum Cosmetic products typically use a few percent of a SNAP-8 solution. Not a calculator dose — follow the product label. | – | Twice daily | 4–8 weeks to judge | Topical |
Reconstitution calculator
Set up for SNAP-8. Switch peptide or vial size any time.
SNAP-8 is used on the skin, so there’s no injectable dose to work out. The math below only applies if you have your own dose.
1Mix
Add 2 mL water for 0 mg/mL
2Draw
Draw to 0 units = 0 mL = 0 mcg
Drag the plunger to set your dose.
3Inject
Next site
Right belly, upper
Tap a site after you inject to keep a rotation.
Pinch the skin, stay 2 in. from the navel, then into a sharps bin.
- Doses per vial
- 0
- Vial lasts
- 0 days
- Good once mixed
- ~28 days
- Syringe
- 30-unit, 0.3 mL
Math only: concentration (mg/mL) = vial mg ÷ mL of water; units = dose (mg) ÷ concentration × 100. Always double-check against your own vial label and a clinician. This tool does not recommend a dose.
Reconstitution
Diluent: Sterile or bacteriostatic water if making a DIY topical solution.
- Wipe both vial tops with an alcohol swab and let dry.
- Draw the diluent, then inject it slowly down the inside wall of the vial — never straight onto the powder.
- Swirl gently or let it sit; do not shake. Foam can damage peptides.
- Solution should be clear. Cloudy, stringy or discolored = discard.
- SNAP-8 is used on the skin. There is no established injectable dose, so the syringe calculator does not apply.
- Common mix (for topical use): 10 mg + 10 mL = 1 mg/mL (no syringe dose — apply topically).
Storage
Powder
Freezer / fridge
Keep sealed vial in the freezer (−20 °C) for long-term storage; fridge (2–8 °C) is fine for a few weeks. Keep dry and out of light.
After mixing
~28 days
Refrigerate at 2–8 °C. Never freeze after mixing. Keep upright, capped, and out of light.
Travel
Keep cool
Short trips at room temperature are generally fine for powder; keep mixed vials cold.
- Homemade serums have no preservative system beyond what you add — keep refrigerated and discard if cloudy.
Side effects & cautions
Reported side effects
- Mild skin irritation or redness
- Rare allergic reaction
- Unknown effects if injected
Cautions
- Injection is not how SNAP-8 has been studied — injecting it is an untested use with unknown safety.
- Patch-test on a small area before regular use.
- Do not expect results comparable to botulinum toxin.
FDA & international status
Not a drug; used as a cosmetic ingredient
SNAP-8 is a cosmetic ingredient (INCI: acetyl octapeptide-3). Cosmetics are not FDA-approved, and no injectable SNAP-8 product is approved.
Regulations change often — verify with the FDA, EMA, MHRA, Health Canada, TGA and WADA before acting.
Often paired with
GHK-CuOften combined in topical anti-aging serums: SNAP-8 for expression lines, GHK-Cu for collagen and skin firmness.
Where to buy
| Size | Price | Per mg | Stock | Latest COA |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 mg | $29.99 | $3.00 | In stock | 99.4% pure, lot SN0001 ILS Labs, tested 2026-07-30 |
Amino Club list prices as of 2026-10-07, before promo codes. Multi-buy: 2+ units 5% off, 3+ units 7.5% off, 10+ units 40% off. Prices change; confirm on the product page. Mixing? Their bacteriostatic water is Amino H2O from $19.99.
SNAP-8 at Amino Club
Check sizes, current price and the certificate of analysis (COA) on the product page. Sold for in-vitro research only.
Get SNAP-8 alerts
An email when its price drops, a sale starts, or its FDA or WADA status changes.
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- Look for a batch-specific COA with HPLC purity (≥98%) and mass-spec identity.
- Typical vial sizes: 10 mg.
FAQ
Is SNAP-8 'Botox in a bottle'?
No. It works on a similar pathway in the lab, but its effect is much weaker and depends on getting through the skin. Expect subtle results at best.
Can I inject it?
It hasn't been studied that way. All the cosmetic data is from creams and serums, so injecting it is an untested use.
How is it different from Argireline?
SNAP-8 is Argireline with two extra amino acids. The maker claims it is somewhat stronger, but independent comparisons are lacking.