Pentapeptide-3: A Bioactive Peptide for Wrinkle Reduction and Skin Relaxation

Technical Introduction

Pentapeptide-3 (sometimes marketed as Dipeptide Diaminobutyroyl Benzylamide Diacetate or variants under trade names like Syn®-Ake) is a synthetic bioactive pentapeptide consisting of five amino acids designed to mimic the effect of Waglerin-1, a peptide found in snake venom.

Its primary mechanism is to modulate neuromuscular communication at the skin level, acting as a non-invasive alternative to Botox-like effects. By interfering with acetylcholine receptor activity, it helps relax facial tension, which in turn reduces the appearance of expression lines and dynamic wrinkles.

• INCI Name: Pentapeptide-3 (may also appear as Dipeptide Diaminobutyroyl Benzylamide Diacetate in cosmetic labeling)

• Chemical Class: Synthetic oligopeptide

• Molecular Weight: ~700–1,000 Da (depending on derivative)

• Appearance: White to off-white powder

• Solubility: Water and polar solvents

• Stability: Stable at pH 4–7; sensitive to high heat and oxidation

Applications

1. Cosmetics & Skincare

• Anti-wrinkle creams & serums → Especially for forehead, crow’s feet, and frown lines.

• Eye area formulations → Reduces fine expression lines around delicate skin.

• Anti-aging masks & gels → Provides smoothing effect for quick results.

• Luxury skincare products → Marketed as a high-tech, biomimetic ingredient.

2. Aesthetic Dermatology Support

• Non-invasive option for those avoiding injectables like Botox.

• Can complement post-procedure care by supporting smoother skin.

✅ Advantages

• Botox-like effect without injection → Relaxes facial tension.

• Visible wrinkle reduction → Especially effective on dynamic wrinkles.

• Fast-acting results → Some effects visible in weeks.

• Safe topical use → No systemic muscle effects at cosmetic doses.

• Synergistic → Works well with peptides like Argireline (Acetyl Hexapeptide-8) and Palmitoyl peptides for complete anti-aging formulations.

⚙️ Technical Specifications (Cosmetic Grade)

⚠️ Safety & Regulatory Notes

• Topical use only: No injectable application.

• Skin tolerance: Very good; patch tests show low irritation potential.

• Global use: Approved for cosmetic use in EU, USA, and Asia-Pacific.

• Formulation note: Incorporate during cool-down (<40 °C) stage to preserve peptide stability.

❓ FAQ

Q1: How does Pentapeptide-3 compare to Botox?
It mimics the muscle-relaxing action but in a much milder, topical way, without injections or systemic effects.

Q2: When will users see results?
Noticeable wrinkle reduction is usually visible in 2–4 weeks, with continued improvement over 6–8 weeks.

Q3: Can it be used with retinol or vitamin C?
Yes, it works synergistically, and also reduces irritation when combined with strong actives.

Q4: Is it safe for eye creams?
Yes, it is well tolerated and frequently formulated in eye serums and gels.

Q5: What types of wrinkles does it target best?
Expression wrinkles such as crow’s feet, forehead lines, and frown lines respond most effectively.