Peptide Comparison
LeuphasylvsSnap-8
Enkephalin-mimetic cosmetic peptide that reduces expression wrinkles by modulating acetylcholine release at the neuromuscular junction, offering a Botox-like topical alternative.
An advanced 8-amino-acid peptide that relaxes facial muscles from the outside in—think of it as 'Botox in a bottle' that you apply to your skin to smooth expression lines without needles or injections.
At a Glance
Quick
comparison
Dose Range
Leuphasyl
As prescribed–As prescribed mg
Snap-8
3–10 %
Frequency
Leuphasyl
Once daily
Snap-8
Once daily
Administration
Leuphasyl
Topical application (serums, creams, ampoules)
Snap-8
Topical application
Cycle Length
Leuphasyl
Ongoing/indefinite
Snap-8
Ongoing/indefinite
Onset Speed
Leuphasyl
Slow (5+ weeks)
Snap-8
Moderate (1-2 weeks)
Evidence Level
Leuphasyl
Moderate human trials (Phase 1-2)
Snap-8
Moderate human trials (Phase 1-2)
Efficacy
Benefit
ratings
Wrinkle Reduction
Skin Smoothing
Anti-Aging Prevention
Muscle Relaxation
Technical Data
Compound
specifications
Leuphasyl
Molecular Formula
C29H39N5O7
Molecular Weight
569.65 g/mol
Half-Life
Topical application (local activity, systemic half-life not applicable)
Bioavailability
Limited (topical peptide; skin penetration challenged by hydrophilic nature and molecular size)
CAS Number
64963-01-5
Snap-8
Molecular Formula
C41H70N16O16S
Molecular Weight
1075.16 g/mol
Half-Life
Topical activity persists 12-24 hours on skin
Bioavailability
Penetrates stratum corneum; reaches viable epidermis with appropriate formulation
CAS Number
868844-74-0
Protocols
Dosing
tiers
Leuphasyl
Snap-8
Applications
Best
suited for
Leuphasyl
Expression line reduction
Leuphasyl is particularly well-suited for individuals focused on expression line reduction. Research and clinical experience suggest meaningful benefits in this area when used as part of a comprehensive treatment approach.
Fine line prevention
Leuphasyl is particularly well-suited for individuals focused on fine line prevention. Research and clinical experience suggest meaningful benefits in this area when used as part of a comprehensive treatment approach.
Age management
Leuphasyl is particularly well-suited for individuals focused on age management. Research and clinical experience suggest meaningful benefits in this area when used as part of a comprehensive treatment approach.
Non-invasive wrinkle reduction
Leuphasyl is particularly well-suited for individuals focused on non-invasive wrinkle reduction. Research and clinical experience suggest meaningful benefits in this area when used as part of a comprehensive treatment approach.
Snap-8
Expression Line Fighters
If you've noticed those lines that form when you smile, frown, or squint are starting to stick around even when your face is relaxed, Snap-8 is designed exactly for this. It works on the muscle-skin connection that creates these dynamic wrinkles.
Botox-Curious but Needle-Shy
Love the idea of smoother skin but not ready for injections? Snap-8 offers a topical alternative that works through a similar mechanism as Botox—just gentler and without the commitment. Perfect for testing the waters of muscle-relaxing anti-aging.
Prevention-Focused Millennials
Starting in your late 20s or early 30s with preventive skincare? Snap-8 can help keep expression lines from becoming permanent fixtures by calming the repetitive muscle movements that eventually etch wrinkles into your skin.
Sensitive Skin Types
Unlike some anti-aging actives that can be harsh, Snap-8 is remarkably well-tolerated. If retinoids make your skin angry or acids cause irritation, peptides like Snap-8 offer effective anti-aging without the drama.
Safety Profile
Side
effects
Leuphasyl
Common
- Mild discomfort at treatment site
- Mild skin tingling
- Mild redness at application site
Uncommon
- Temporary skin dryness
Serious
- Severe allergic reaction
Snap-8
Common
- Mild tingling sensation
- Temporary redness
- Skin dryness
Uncommon
- Contact irritation
- Skin tightness
Serious
- Allergic reaction
Research Status
Safety
& evidence
Leuphasyl
Evidence Level
Moderate human trials (Phase 1-2)
FDA Status
Research compound
Safety Overview
Leuphasyl (Pentapeptide-18) has been studied in cosmetic research for over 15 years. This topical enkephalin-mimetic peptide demonstrates an excellent safety profile in cosmetic formulations, with no reported serious adverse effects in clinical applications. As a topical cosmetic ingredient, it avoids systemic absorption concerns associated with injectable treatments. The peptide is well-tolerated across all skin types including sensitive skin. Individual responses can vary with formulation and concentration, but most effects are manageable with standard cosmetic application protocols.
Contraindications
- xKnown hypersensitivity to peptides
- xOpen wounds or broken skin at application site
- xActive dermatological infections at application site
Snap-8
Evidence Level
Moderate human trials (Phase 1-2)
FDA Status
Not FDA approved
Safety Overview
Snap-8 has an excellent safety profile backed by extensive cosmetic industry testing. As a topical peptide, it works locally on the skin without systemic absorption, making it much safer than injectable alternatives. Clinical studies show it's well-tolerated even with long-term daily use, with adverse events limited to occasional mild skin irritation in sensitive individuals. It's considered safe for most skin types and has been used in cosmetic formulations worldwide since the mid-2000s.
Contraindications
- xKnown allergy to peptide ingredients
- xActive skin infections at application site
- xOpen wounds or severe skin irritation
- xPregnancy (as a precaution due to limited data)
Decision Guide
Which is
right for you?
Choose Leuphasyl if...
- Expression line reduction
- Fine line prevention
- Age management
- Non-invasive wrinkle reduction
Choose Snap-8 if...
- Wrinkle reduction
- Expression line smoothing
- Preventive anti-aging
- Non-invasive cosmetic enhancement