Pentapeptide-18 (Leuphasyl) mimics enkephalin activity at presynaptic membranes, reducing neurotransmitter release at the neuromuscular junction for a mild botox-like effect on expression lines. Often combined with Argireline for synergistic effects.
Category: Cosmetic. Evidence rating: D (animal/preclinical only).
Clinical status: Cosmetic ingredient
Activates enkephalin receptors on presynaptic membranes, reducing acetylcholine release at the neuromuscular junction. This dampens muscle contraction frequency and reduces expression line depth.
Safety considerations: Well-tolerated topically.
Reviewed by the PeptideAtlas Editorial Team.
| Production method | synthetic |
|---|---|
| Anti-doping status | not-listed |
Related peptides: Decapeptide-12, Melanostatin-DM (Nonapeptide-2), Nonapeptide-1.
No. Its effect is much milder than botulinum toxin injection. It may help reduce fine expression lines with regular topical use but cannot replicate the muscle paralysis effect of Botox.
Pentapeptide-18 (Leuphasyl) is a cosmetic peptide with neurotransmitter-inhibiting properties that reduces muscle contraction-related wrinkles, often combined with Argireline for enhanced effects.
PENTAPEPTIDE-18 has been studied for: Expression wrinkle reduction, Muscle relaxation, Synergistic with Argireline, Anti-aging effects. Cosmetic peptide; also known as Leuphasyl. Works synergistically with SNAP-8 and Argireline.
Mimics enkephalin to bind opioid receptors on pre-synaptic neurons, reducing calcium influx and catecholamine release, resulting in decreased muscle contraction and expression line formation.