Acetyl Octapeptide 3 (AO3)

A synthetic peptide that is based around octapeptide-3, a peptide complex composed of the amino acids aspartic acid, glutamic acid, glutamine, and methionine. Also known as SNAP-8, this peptide is said to reduce wrinkles formed from repetitive facial expressions, though there's no independent research supporting this claim. Even if there was independent research, the usage levels used in company-sponsored testing to support the improvement of deep wrinklles and expression lines was 3-10%, which is far greater than what's typically used in skin care.

Although this won't replace what Botox or dermal fillers can do for etched wrinkles, like all peptides it has water-binding properties and theoretical cell-communicating ability. It may play a role in helping skin look and act younger, and can help hydrate and smooth skin.