The argireline is a biomimetic peptide composed of six amino acids capable of interacting with the neuromuscular mechanisms involved in the formation of expression lines. Classified among peptides neurotransmitters, this molecule acts by modulating the release of acetylcholine, the neurotransmitter responsible for muscle contraction. By partially disrupting the assembly of the SNARE complex, which is essential for nerve signal transmission, argireline helps reduce the intensity of repetitive muscle contractions in the forehead or around the eyes, which helps smooth the skin.
Often compared to botulinum toxin due to this shared biological mechanism, it is nonetheless clearly distinct: the argireline is not injected, does not paralyze the muscle, and has an excellent tolerability profile when used topically. It works in a gentler, more gradual manner and is especially valued for formulating treatments targeting expression lines. Depending on the formulation, its concentration generally ranges from 5% to 20%.
If argireline integrates different types of products, they are all intended for the skin, not for hair or the scalp.
The serums containing argireline.
The serums are the cosmetic products that harness argireline most effectively, as their fluid texture allows targeted application to areas where micro-contractions are most pronounced, notably the forehead and crow’s feet. Argireline is incorporated at often high concentrations to maximize its biomimetic action on the SNARE complex, responsible for the release of acetylcholine. The lightweight texture of serums containing argireline enables rapid absorption. They are typically applied morning and evening to clean skin, just before moisturizer, with emphasis on expression-prone areas.
The creams containing argireline.
In a cream, argireline benefits from a richer, slightly occlusive base. This type of formulation enables the peptide to be incorporated directly into a daily regimen targeting expression lines while ensuring a constant supply of lipids and moisturizing agents. Since a hydrating cream is a skincare essential, those formulated with argireline are particularly suited to individuals seeking a minimalist routine without a serum step. They are used twice daily: in the morning before sunscreen, and in the evening as the final step of the routine.
The eye contour is one of the areas where argireline is most relevant, as repeated movements (blinking, smiling...) quickly leave their mark on very delicate skin. Argireline helps reduce the depth of crow's feet wrinkles and prevents repeated muscle contractions. The eye contour treatments are applied in small amounts, about the size of a grain of rice, morning and evening, gently tapping from the inner corner toward the temple.