Acetyl Hexapeptide 3

Acetyl hexapeptide 3 is a synthetic peptide used in various skincare products. Certain peptides act as “messengers” in the skin, helping the epidermis to communicate more efficiently with the dermis. Some research results claim to show a measurable effect and tests are continuing in a number of places.

This sort of “peptide communication” within the skin is diminished with age. This results in reduced collagen production as well as the buildup of damaged elastin fibers. However, using no harmful chemicals and no surgery, you can reduce the appearance of wrinkles with a muscle-relaxing effect similar to Botox injections. Acetyl hexapeptide 3 is the active ingredient in a variety of preparations, although a Spanish firm, Lipotec, manufactures and sells the compound (known by its trade name, Argireline).

Claims made for Argireline do not necessarily translate to every product containing the substance, or for the active ingredient itself, since Lipotec cannot guarantee the potency or formulation for every use of its compound. Still, Lipotec claims that acetyl hexapeptide 3 as it is formulated in Argireline constitutes “a unique mechanism which relaxes facial tension leading to a reduction in superficial facial lines and wrinkles with regular use.”

Truth and consequences

Argireline has been touted as reducing the release of excessive amounts of catecholamines release, but this particular claim about the effects of topical used is based only on information from one company. No published research substantiates any effect following the use of Argireline topically on skin, but studies continue.

Catecholamines are compounds in the body that act as neurotransmitters (adrenaline, epinephrine, dopamine) and help ready the body for such health “emergencies” as shock and fatigue. Some symptoms of Parkinson’s disease may be attributable to low levels of dopamine in the brain. It is probably not a good idea to use cosmetics with acetyl hexapeptide 3 that may inhibit dopamine production.

Some critics contend that if acetyl hexapeptide-3 really did relax facial muscles, the effect would not be localized but spread across the entire face, if you are using the product as directed. Sagging, not youthful, skin would be the result. In fact, notwithstanding all the fear about Botox that is promulgated by companies making “Botox-like” products, there is decidedly more data on efficacy and safety available for Botox than for acetyl hexapeptide 3.

Your own formula

Of course, Botox is not applied topically, but is injected. Therefore, it is still too early to adjudge acetyl hexapeptide 3 as being ineffective or inadequate for the stated purpose. Inasmuch as any skincare regimen involves a variety of actions, nutritional changes and lifestyle choices, any single part of the formula cannot be isolated as the “one thing” that will do the job. The job in this case, of course, is the elimination of wrinkles.

Despite the lack of conclusive data about acetyl hexapeptide 3 and its effectiveness as an ingredient in anti-wrinkle creams and other preparations, it can still have a place in your “skincare arsenal.” With proper attention paid to preventative care and overall health, you can develop a program that balances prevention, treatment and healing.

Always get the most up-to-date information you can, and read both clinical test results as well as anecdotal evidence (individual results). Do your homework, get good data, read widely on the associated subjects and then stick to your plan. Make adjustments to your personal formula when you encounter new and different information, and stay disciplined. That’s the best you can do!

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