How does Pentapeptide-18 differ from Argireline?

Both aim to relax expression-line muscles, but Leuphasyl works through enkephalin receptor signaling while Argireline targets the SNARE complex; they are frequently combined.

Is Pentapeptide-18 injected?

No. It is a topical cosmetic peptide intended for leave-on skincare formulations, not injection.

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Collagen & Skin

Research Chemical

Pentapeptide-18 (Leuphasyl)

Also known as: Pentapeptide-18, Leuphasyl

Pentapeptide-18 (Leuphasyl) is a cosmetic peptide used in topical anti-wrinkle formulations to reduce the appearance of expression lines. It mimics enkephalin signaling to dampen excess muscle contraction at the skin surface.

Mechanism of Action

Pentapeptide-18 is an enkephalin-derived pentapeptide that acts on enkephalin (delta-opioid-like) receptors on the presynaptic membrane of the neuromuscular junction. By modulating these receptors it reduces calcium influx and acetylcholine release, lowering the intensity of muscle contractions that drive dynamic wrinkles. This complements the SNAP-25-targeting mechanism of acetyl hexapeptides, and the two are often combined for additive line-smoothing in cosmetic systems. Its action is local to the topically treated skin.

Half-life: Not systemically relevant; used topically with local action
Administration Routes: topical
Research Status: Research Chemical