Argireline is a wonderful, newer ingredient in skincare, ideal for maturing skin and diminishing the appearance of wrinkles. Argireline is the brand name of Acetyl Hexapeptide-8, a molecule formed principally of 6 amino acids (which in a row are called a peptide). It is synthetically produced in a lab, but there are no indications of any degree of toxicity and it is one of our favorite compounds for maturing skin.
How it Works
It’s taken the skincare market by storm, and for good reason. It is related to Botulinum Toxin, more commonly known as botox, and it acts in a similar but less dramatic fashion. It’s aiming for relaxation rather than paralysis. Daily use can reduce the appearance of wrinkles over the course of a month, so we are excited to use it.
How to Use Argireline
Argireline is a clear liquid that is water soluble and should be added as a final step in your cosmetic product. That means that for many products including it in the final water phase is suitable—for emulsions add it once the mix is complete.
It has a recommended concentration of 2-10%, and clearly makes a great addition to any age-focused skincare line. We prefer using it in concentrations of 5-10% for maximum benefit. It is specifically recommended for the first wrinkles that appear, so aiming your new product at female millennials facing their first wrinkles may be a smart move. Serums and face lotions are easy entrance points.
Argireline Retinol Eye Gel
The delicate skin around the eyes needs extra attention as we age to keep us looking our best. This eye gel harnesses the power of Argirlene Pepetides, Retinol (Vitamin A), and Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) to keep the eye area looking youthful and smooth!
Equipment You’ll Need:
Scale or measuring cups and spoons
Stick Blender
Hot Plate or Stove top
Difficulty Level: Easy
Approximate yield: 1 Pound (16 0z)
Approximate cost per pound: $150.75 If using cucumber, $47.00 if use Deionized water)
Suggested Packaging: 1oz jar
Suggested retail price: $30 -$40
Ingredients:
1 ¾ Cup Cucumber Distillate or Deionized water
1 peppermint tea bag
3 Tbsp Argireline Peptide Solution NP
3/4 Tsp Retinol (Vitamin A Palmitate)
1/4 Tsp Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)
1/8 Tsp Potassium Sorbate Powder (Preservative)
1 1/2 Tbsp Hyaluronic Acid Powder (Humectant/ gelling agent)
1 3/4 Tsp Phenoxyethanol (Preservative)
1/2 Tsp Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate (Preservative)
Instructions:
- Pour cucumber distillate or Deionized water into stove top safe pot or beaker and add 1 peppermint tea bag. Other tea will work fine, however, be aware that the gel will be the same color as the tea you make. Heat to 150F and let steep for 10 minutes.
- Remove tea bag and add all remaining ingredients EXCEPT for the hyaluronic acid. Mix well.
- Take your stick blender and slowly sprinkle the hyaluronic acid into the cucumber water mixture. As you sprinkle, the gel will begin to form.
- Test the pH of your eye gel. It should be between 4.5 – 5.5. Please see our video on how to test pH if you need further instruction on how to measure and adjust pH. It is expected that this gel will have a higher pH so you can use citric acid to adjust the pH down to 4.5 -5.5.
Usage:
Apply gently around the eye area 1-2 times daily. Follow with oil or heavy moisturizer.
Please note that this formula has not been challenge tested for preservation efficacy. If you use this formula for market sales, it is up to you to ensure the safety of the product.
