Stability and Shelf Life of SNAP-8 in Finished Formulations

Regarding your question about Acetyl Octapeptide-3 (eq. SNAP-8), here are the details regarding its stability and storage:

1. Raw Material vs. Finished Product Storage

The recommendation to store the raw peptide at 10°C (or in a refrigerator) is intended to maximize the shelf life of the concentrated ingredient before it is used in a formulation. This ensures the peptide remains at peak potency for as long as possible while sitting on the shelf as a raw material.

2. Stability at Room Temperature

Once SNAP-8 is formulated into a serum or cream, it is stable at room temperature. Commercial products containing this peptide do not require refrigeration because:

• Formulation Stability: When diluted into a finished product (at the recommended 3-10% usage rate), the peptide is stable within a standard cosmetic base.
• Preservation: A properly preserved formula prevents microbial growth that could otherwise degrade the ingredients.
• Packaging: Your use of a dark dropper bottle is excellent, as it protects the peptide from UV light, which can cause degradation over time.

3. Shelf Life

A well-formulated serum containing SNAP-8 typically has a shelf life of 1 to 2 years at room temperature, provided that:

• The product is kept away from direct sunlight and extreme heat.
• The pH of the formulation is generally kept in the neutral to slightly acidic range (typically pH 5.0–7.0) for optimal peptide stability.
• The mixing temperature during production was kept below 40°C, as high heat can damage the peptide structure.

In summary, you do not need to refrigerate your finished serum. Storing it in a cool, dark place at room temperature is perfectly sufficient for maintaining its efficacy throughout its normal shelf life.