Many people encounter acetyl hexapeptide-8 on a cosmetic label and wonder what it actually does to the skin. This peptide has a specific labeled cosmetic use, and it has also been studied in a small number of clinical trials for other applications.
Key takeaways
- Acetyl hexapeptide-8 is labeled as an ingredient in a stretch marks cream, not a prescription drug.
- Its labeled pharm class is listed as a non-standardized food allergenic extract.
- Six clinical trials have been registered involving this compound.
- Trials have explored its use for blepharospasm and for periorbital (under-eye) skin appearance.
- No FDA boxed warning is associated with this product's label.
What Acetyl Hexapeptide-8 Is
Acetyl hexapeptide-8 is a synthetic peptide compound identified by PubChem CID 71587772. It is formulated into a topical cream product marketed as "Stretch Marks cream." The label does not describe a specific mechanism of action for how the peptide affects skin tissue.
What Acetyl Hexapeptide-8 Is Approved For
The labeled indication is for a stretch marks cream intended to help remove scars, support skin repair, and enhance skin elasticity. Directions call for application over the body, with particular focus on the abdomen, applied each morning and evening. No boxed warning appears on this product's label.
What the Evidence Shows
Six clinical trials have been registered that involve acetyl hexapeptide-8. One completed phase 1/phase 2 study examined the compound for blepharospasm, while a related phase 2 trial on the same condition was terminated. A separate completed trial evaluated an eye serum, without a specified phase, for improving the appearance of the periorbital area.
Reported Side Effects
No FAERS adverse event reports were available for this compound in the data reviewed.