Structure · schematic
Peptide chain of 8 amino acids · Sonstiges
Schematic representation of the amino acid chain — not a chemical structural formula. Each node represents one amino acid.
Research areas*
* Contexts in which the peptide has been scientifically studied — not assured or recommended effects.
Mechanism of action
- SNAP-8 is a cosmetic octapeptide used as a topical ingredient in anti-wrinkle products.
- It is derived from a segment of the SNAP-25 protein and is intended — by analogy to the mechanism of botulinum toxin, but much more weakly — to influence the formation of the SNARE complex and thus the release of acetylcholine at the neuromuscular junction.
- The goal is reduced muscle contraction of expression lines.
- Evidence stems largely from manufacturers; independent data are limited.
Research status
- There are hardly any independent, peer-reviewed studies on SNAP-8.
- The available evidence for topical wrinkle reduction stems mostly from manufacturer and application data and is methodologically limited.
- As a topically applied peptide of large molecular size, skin penetration is an open point of discussion.
- A robust clinical evidence base is lacking.
Evidence level
Cited studies
No studies cited.
Known risks
- 01Limited independent efficacy data
- 02Skin irritation or contact allergy possible with topical use
- 03Skin penetration of large peptides questionable
- 04Product quality varies greatly depending on formulation
Frequently asked questions
What is SNAP-8?
SNAP-8 is a cosmetic octapeptide used as a topical ingredient in anti-wrinkle products.
What type of peptide is SNAP-8?
SNAP-8 belongs to the Other class.
Is SNAP-8 legal in Germany?
SNAP-8 is not approved as a medicine in Germany. Obtaining it outside clinical studies is legally problematic.
Where can I buy SNAP-8?
Peptica sells nothing and names no sources. SNAP-8 is "not approved" in Germany; obtaining unapproved substances outside clinical studies is illegal and carries quality and safety risks.
Is SNAP-8 banned in sport (WADA)?
SNAP-8 is currently not on the WADA Prohibited List.
What are the known risks of SNAP-8?
Documented risks include: Limited independent efficacy data; Skin irritation or contact allergy possible with topical use. This is not a complete safety assessment and not medical advice — see the risks section for the full list.
How well researched is SNAP-8?
The evidence is classified as “preclinical”. 0 studies are cited on this page.
What is the molecular weight of SNAP-8?
SNAP-8 has a molar mass of about 1073.2 Da.
Legal status
Germany
not approvedAustria
not approvedSwitzerland
not approvedEU
not approvedUSA
unclassifiedCanada
unclassifiedLegal status varies by country and can change. This is not legal advice.
Sources & methodology
- 0 peer-reviewed studies cited, linked to PubMed where available.
- Molecular data verified against PubChem and primary literature. PubChem CID 71587832
- Editorial standard: no dosage guidance, no sources, evidence level stated explicitly.
Last editorially reviewed: 30 May 2026
Legal assessment
SNAP-8 is not an approved medicine but is used as a cosmetic ingredient (INCI: Acetyl Octapeptide-3). Cosmetic products are governed by cosmetics regulation, not by medicines law. Not on the WADA Prohibited List.
Important notice
This site is intended solely for factual, scientifically oriented information about peptides. It does not constitute medical advice, does not replace a consultation with a doctor and contains no recommendations for use in humans.
This site does not sell any substances and names no sources for unapproved substances. For medical questions, please consult qualified medical professionals.
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