SNAP-8 (Acetyl Octapeptide-3)
What it is
SNAP-8 (Acetyl Octapeptide-3, CAS 868844-74-0) is a synthetic peptide built from eight amino acids and carrying an acetyl group at its N-terminus. It is an elongated analog of Acetyl Hexapeptide-3 (Argireline), extended by two additional residues, and it belongs to the class of neuromuscular-modulating cosmetic peptides.
Research context and categorization
SNAP-8 is grouped under the skin and cosmetic category, more specifically the family of topical "expression line" peptides.
In neutral research-framed terms, it is commonly discussed in relation to the SNARE protein complex that helps mediate the release of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. The peptide sequence mimics a segment of the SNAP-25 protein, and it is investigated for how it may compete for a position within the SNARE assembly. That mechanism is discussed as a route that could reduce the muscle contractions associated with dynamic expression wrinkles. On this basis it is studied in the context of the appearance of fine lines such as forehead lines, crow's feet, and glabellar (between-brow) lines in topical formulation research.
These uses are investigational and are described in the setting of laboratory and cosmetic-formulation study. They are not confirmed clinical outcomes, and SNAP-8 has not been approved by the FDA for any therapeutic indication. Marketing claims of specific percentage reductions in wrinkle depth originate largely from supplier and manufacturer materials rather than from independent regulatory review, so they should be read as manufacturer claims rather than established fact.
Status
- Regulatory status: Research-only in this context. Acetyl Octapeptide-3 is not an FDA-approved drug. It is handled as a cosmetic ingredient rather than a medicine, meaning it has no drug approval and no established therapeutic indication.
- Sport status: Not specifically listed on the WADA Prohibited List. SNAP-8 is a topical cosmetic peptide with no recognized systemic or performance-enhancing action, and it does not appear as a named substance under the WADA classes. Because WADA also applies broad catch-all language and revises the list each year, anyone competing under anti-doping rules should verify current status through an official resource such as Global DRO rather than rely on this note.
Reconstitution notes (general)
For lyophilized research powders, concentration is calculated as the milligrams of peptide in the vial divided by the millilitres of liquid added. For example, 10 mg of powder placed in 2 mL of bacteriostatic water yields a concentration of 5 mg per mL. To work out a target volume for any vial size and desired concentration, use the calculator at /pages/tools.
Dilution and handling notes (compound-specific)
SNAP-8 is highly water-soluble, which sets it apart from many other research peptides. When supplied as a lyophilized powder it typically dissolves readily and cleanly in water or bacteriostatic water, without the gelling, clouding, or precipitation that can trouble more hydrophobic peptides, so no aggressive swirling or warming is usually needed. Gentle addition of the liquid down the vial wall, followed by slow inversion until fully dissolved, is generally sufficient. Because the peptide is somewhat surface-active, running water straight onto the powder or shaking hard can whip up a persistent foam that traps material, which is another reason to add the liquid slowly and swirl rather than shake.
Note that SNAP-8 is fundamentally a topical cosmetic peptide, not a compound formulated for injection. In cosmetic practice it is frequently sold already dissolved as a 2 percent or 5 percent aqueous solution, sometimes in a water and glycerin blend, rather than as a dry powder, because the goal is incorporation into the water phase of a serum, gel, or emulsion. Formulation references cite an optimal pH window of roughly 5.0 to 7.0 for stability and skin compatibility. If you are working with a ready-made solution rather than a powder, there is nothing to reconstitute: it can be diluted directly into an aqueous base, and the reconstitution math above does not apply.
Handling and storage
Store reconstituted or ready-made solution refrigerated at 2 to 8 C and out of direct light. Wipe the vial stopper with an alcohol swab before drawing from it, and label the vial with the mix date. A refrigerated working window of roughly four weeks is a common reference point for peptide solutions. Discard any solution that becomes cloudy or discolored or that develops visible floaters.
Related reading
Tools and supplies
- Reconstitution & blend calculators
- Bacteriostatic Water 30 ml
- Gansulin Metal Reusable Pen
- 3 ml Glass Cartridges (10-pack)
- Complete Starter Kit
For laboratory and research reference only. Educational content, not medical, dosing, injection, or therapeutic guidance, and not intended for human or animal use. Any research uses described are investigational and not confirmed or approved benefits. Confirm anything involving health with a licensed professional. References linked above.