Dipeptide Diaminobutyroyl Benzylamide Diacetate is a high-performance synthetic tripeptide designed to diminish expression lines by mimicking a protein found in Temple Viper venom. It functions as a topical neuromodulator, temporarily relaxing facial muscles to smooth the appearance of deep-set wrinkles.
- INCI Name:
- Dipeptide Diaminobutyroyl Benzylamide Diacetate
- Chemical/Scientific Name:
- beta-alanyl-prolyl-2,4-diaminobutyric acid benzylamide diacetate
- Common Aliases:
- Syn-Ake, Tripeptide-3
| Category: | Active Substances |
| Source Origin: | Synthetic |
| Comedogenic Rating: | 0 |
| Primary Industries: | Cosmetics, Dermatology |
| Solubility: | Water-soluble |
At a Glance: Properties & Effects
| Anti-Aging/Renewal | |
| Soothing/Calming | |
| Formula Stability | |
| Irritation Risk |
Primary Benefits:
- Visibly reduces the depth of dynamic wrinkles, particularly forehead lines and crow’s feet.
- Provides a rapid smoothing effect on the skin’s surface within several weeks of consistent use.
- Offers a non-invasive, topical alternative to injectable neuromodulators.
Potential Risks:
- Minimal risk of localized irritation or allergic reaction in highly sensitive individuals.
- Effects are transient and require ongoing application to maintain results.
Biological Action & Cosmetic Profile
The primary mechanism of this tripeptide involves the competitive antagonism of muscular nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (mnAChR) at the neuromuscular junction. By mimicking the active subunit of Waglerin-1, a polypeptide found in the venom of the Temple Viper (Tropidolaemus wagleri), the molecule prevents acetylcholine from binding to its receptor on muscle cells. This action keeps the sodium ion channels closed, effectively inhibiting the depolarization required for muscle contraction. Because facial muscles remain in a relaxed state, the repetitive mechanical stress that creates expression lines is significantly mitigated.Chemically, the molecule is a small tripeptide with a molecular weight under 500 Daltons. This low molecular mass facilitates efficient penetration into the upper layers of the epidermis, where it can reach the sites of neurological signaling. Unlike botulinum toxin, which requires injection to reach the deeper muscular layers, this synthetic analogue is optimized for topical delivery in aqueous serums or emulsions. The “Botox-like” effect is reversible, meaning the ingredient does not permanently alter nerve or muscle function but provides a temporary smoothing of the skin’s topography.Topical application is most effective against “dynamic” wrinkles—those caused by repeated facial expressions like frowning or smiling. Clinical assessments have demonstrated that the most significant improvements occur in the glabella (frown lines) and the periorbital area. While it does not stimulate collagen production as directly as copper peptides or retinoids, its ability to reduce mechanical strain allows the skin’s natural repair mechanisms to function more effectively on static wrinkles over time.
Routine Integration
Synergies:
- Acetyl Hexapeptide 8: Enhances the “muscle-relaxing” effect through a complementary pathway (SNARE complex inhibition).
- Sodium Hyaluronate: Provides immediate hydration and plumping to complement the peptide’s smoothing action.
- Glycerin: Acts as a humectant to maintain a moist environment for optimal peptide penetration.
- Gluconolactone: Offers gentle exfoliation to ensure the peptide can penetrate through the stratum corneum more effectively.
Conflicts:
- Strong acids (low pH): High concentrations of Glycolic Acid or Ascorbic Acid may potentially hydrolyze the peptide bonds if the formula is not properly buffered.
Clinical Consensus & Safety
Dermatological evaluations and manufacturer-led in vivo studies confirm that Dipeptide Diaminobutyroyl Benzylamide Diacetate is a safe, non-toxic cosmetic ingredient. Research published in the International Journal of Peptide Research and Therapeutics indicates a significant decrease in wrinkle area and depth when used at concentrations between 1% and 4% over a 28-day period. Because it is a synthetic biomimetic peptide, it lacks the allergenic impurities often found in natural extracts. The Personal Care Products Council and major regulatory bodies in the EU (CosIng) recognize it as a skin-conditioning agent with no known systemic toxicity or cumulative irritation potential.
Is this ingredient actually snake venom?
No. It is a completely synthetic tripeptide created in a laboratory. While its chemical structure is modeled after a specific protein found in viper venom to achieve its muscle-relaxing properties, it contains no actual animal-derived venom and is entirely safe for topical use.
How long does it take to see results?
Short-term smoothing can often be observed within a few hours of application as the peptide begins to interact with surface receptors. However, cumulative clinical results, such as a measurable reduction in deep forehead wrinkles, typically require twice-daily application for a minimum of 28 days.
Can it be used alongside Retinol?
Yes. This peptide is highly compatible with Retinol. While the peptide addresses the mechanical cause of wrinkles (muscle contraction), retinol addresses the structural cause (collagen loss), making them a powerful combination for comprehensive anti-aging.