SNAP-8 

SNAP-8 is a synthetic peptide with the same sequence as the N-terminal end of the protein SNAP-25, a protein found in neuronal synapses that is involved in neuroexocytosis, neurotransmitter release, and neuroplasticity. Its mechanism of action shares some similarity with Botox, and it has become popular as a non-invasive, topically applied cosmetic ingredient for reducing the appearance of wrinkles.
Mechanism of Action
SNAP-8 works by:

Inhibiting neurotransmitter release: It interferes with the formation of SNARE, a protein complex required to drive Ca²⁺-dependent exocytosis (the transport of molecules out of the cell) [1]. This interference stops neuromuscular signalling, preventing muscles from contracting fully.
Stimulating fibroblast activity: This increase in fibroblast activity may stimulate collagen production [2]. 

Therapeutic Potential
Because of its ability to inhibit neurotransmitter release and increase collagen production, SNAP-8 has potential as a component in cosmetic formulations. Results reported so far include:

Scar improvement: SNAP-8 has been found to reduce the appearance of scars in several ways. It reduces sebum production, which may reduce the risk of developing infections. The elasticity of scar tissue is also improved, giving an overall smoother skin texture [3].
Wrinkle reduction: The depth of wrinkles is significantly reduced after treatment involving twice-daily application for 4 weeks. A decrease in wrinkle depth of up to 49% after 4 weeks of treatment has been reported [1,2]. Skin hydration is significantly improved [4]. In aged mice, beneficial changes in collagen production were seen [2,5]. 

SNAP-8 appears to exert several cosmetic benefits by improving the appearance of wrinkles, enhancing skin elasticity, and promoting type I collagen production. 
Safety
When applied topically, concentrations of up to 10% have not been associated with any adverse effects [6]. No irritation or systemic toxicity has been reported by clinical cosmetic studies, but in vitro studies suggest that very high doses could be cytotoxic [7].
Administration by subcutaneous injection carries a higher risk of infection, especially if the procedure is performed by untrained personnel [8]. 
How It Compares to Botox
SNAP-8 is commonly compared to botulinum toxin A (Botox). Here is how they compare:

SNAP-8Botox

MechanismInterferes with the SNARE complex, causing muscle relaxation.Inhibits the SNARE complex, causing muscle paralysis.

AdministrationTopical, twice daily.By injection, it takes effect within days to weeks and lasts for several months.

SafetyWhen administered topically, SNAP-8 has low toxicity and no associated adverse events.Although generally safe when administered professionally, there is a higher risk of infection or adverse events, such as headache, heavy eyelids, and injection site haematoma.

Anti-wrinkle activityFacial movement is relaxed, causing a reduction in wrinkles of up to 49% in some studies.Botox causes significant and noticeable muscle relaxation, reducing wrinkles by more than 80% in some cases [9].

Skin qualitySNAP-8 treatment can improve collagen production, increase skin hydration and elasticity, and reduce sebum production.Botox use is associated with an improvement in skin quality, reduction of sebum production, pore size, and an increase in collagen production [10,11].

Conclusion
SNAP-8 can be applied topically to produce noticeable improvements in skin quality. Clinical trials have not reported any significant adverse effects from the use of this product when used in concentrations of up to 10%. It offers a way to modestly improve the appearance and health of the skin without the use of needles.
References

Blanes-Mira C, Clemente J, Jodas G, et al. A synthetic hexapeptide (Argireline) with antiwrinkle activity. Int J Cosmet Sci. 2002;24(5):303-310. doi:10.1046/j.1467-2494.2002.00153.x
Wang Y, Wang M, Xiao XS, Pan P, Li P, Huo J. The anti wrinkle efficacy of synthetic hexapeptide (Argireline) in Chinese Subjects. J Cosmet Laser Ther Off Publ Eur Soc Laser Dermatol. Published online April 22, 2013. doi:10.3109/14764172.2012.759234
Palmieri B, Noviello A, Corazzari V. Skin scars and wrinkles temporary camouflage in dermatology and oncoesthetics: focus on acetyl hexapeptide-8. Clin Ter. 2020;(6):539-548. doi:10.7417/CT.2020.2270
Ruiz MA, Clares B, Morales ME, Gallardo V. Evaluación de la eficacia anti-arrugas de formulaciones cosméticas con un péptido anti-envejecimiento (Argirelina®). Ars Pharm Internet. 2009;50(4):168-176.
Wang Y, Wang M, Xiao XS, Huo J, Zhang WD. The anti-wrinkle efficacy of Argireline. J Cosmet Laser Ther Off Publ Eur Soc Laser Dermatol. 2013;15(4):237-241. doi:10.3109/14764172.2013.769273
Dana A, Rotsztejn H. The Peptide Argireline-The Importance of Local Application on the Skin, in the Light of Current Knowledge. Lett Drug Des Discov. 14(10):1215-1220. doi:10.2174/1570180814666170419121210
Grosicki M, Latacz G, Szopa A, Cukier A, Kieć-Kononowicz K. The study of cellular cytotoxicity of argireline – an anti-aging peptide. Acta Biochim Pol. 2014;61(1):29-32.
Henseler H. Investigating the effects of Argireline in a skin serum containing hyaluronic acids on skin surface wrinkles using the Visia® Complexion Analysis camera system for objective skin analysis. GMS Interdiscip Plast Reconstr Surg DGPW. 2023;12:Doc09. doi:10.3205/iprs000179
Branford OA, Dann SC, Grobbelaar AO. The quantitative assessment of wrinkle depth: turning the microscope on botulinum toxin type A. Ann Plast Surg. 2010;65(3):285-293. doi:10.1097/SAP.0b013e3181cbfee6
Humphrey S, Jacky B, Gallagher CJ. Preventive, Cumulative Effects of Botulinum Toxin Type A in Facial Aesthetics. Dermatol Surg Off Publ Am Soc Dermatol Surg Al. 2017;43 Suppl 3:S244-S251. doi:10.1097/DSS.0000000000001404
Fabi SG, Park JY, Goldie K, Wu W. Microtoxin for Improving Pore Size, Skin Laxity, Sebum Control, and Scars: A Roundtable on Integrating Intradermal Botulinum Toxin Type A Microdoses Into Clinical Practice. Aesthet Surg J. 2023;43(9):1015-1024. doi:10.1093/asj/sjad044

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