Alternatives to SYN-AKE for Anti-Wrinkle Effects

Asked by: kanokkorn.thia On: May 28, 2016 Product Type: Cosmetics

Question

What are alternative ingredients similar to SYN-AKE that help reduce wrinkles, and how do they compare in terms of mechanism and effectiveness, especially considering ingredients like DMAE which might cause irritation?

Answer

Alternatives and Similar Ingredients to SYN-AKE

SYN-AKE (Dipeptide Diaminobutyroyl Benzylamide Diacetate) is a synthetic peptide designed to mimic the effect of snake venom by temporarily reducing muscle contractions, which helps to quickly reduce the appearance of wrinkles caused by facial movements. Its effect is generally instantaneous but short-acting, lasting around 6-12 hours.

Here are some ingredients that offer similar or complementary anti-wrinkle effects:

  • DMAE (Dimethylaminoethanol): As suggested, DMAE works differently than SYN-AKE. It is known for its skin tightening and antioxidant properties, helping to improve skin firmness and reduce the appearance of wrinkles over time (results typically visible after about 10 days). However, as noted, DMAE can cause skin irritation, especially on sensitive skin or at higher concentrations (above 5%). It is recommended to start at a lower concentration (e.g., 3%) and consider adding irritation-reducing ingredients to the formula.

  • Peptides targeting muscle contraction:

    • Acetyl Hexapeptide-8 (commonly known as Argireline): This peptide works similarly to SYN-AKE by targeting the mechanism of muscle contraction, helping to relax facial muscles and reduce expression lines, particularly around the forehead and eyes. It is considered gentle and safe.
    • Acetyl Octapeptide-3 (commonly known as SNAP-8): Developed from Argireline, SNAP-8 has a similar mechanism of action but is considered more effective at reducing muscle contraction to minimize wrinkles.
  • Peptides stimulating collagen and skin structure:

    • Palmitoyl Tripeptide-38 (Pep®-Synthe6): This peptide focuses on stimulating the synthesis of key components of the skin matrix, such as collagen and hyaluronic acid, to fill wrinkles from within and improve skin structure over the long term.
    • Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4 (Pep®-PP4): Also known as Matrixyl, this peptide signals the skin to produce more collagen and other extracellular matrix proteins, leading to a reduction in wrinkle depth and improved skin elasticity and texture over several weeks of use.

Choosing the best ingredient depends on the desired outcome. For immediate, temporary reduction of expression lines, SYN-AKE or peptides like Argireline and SNAP-8 are suitable. For longer-term improvement in skin firmness, elasticity, and overall wrinkle reduction by building skin structure, DMAE or peptides like Palmitoyl Tripeptide-38 and Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4 are effective. Combining ingredients with different mechanisms can also provide comprehensive anti-aging benefits.