Public Interest in Acetyl Hexapeptide-8: Longitudinal Analysis

Abstract

Background Acetyl hexapeptide-8, also known as Argireline, is a topical, short-acting, synthetic peptide that has recently gained popularity for its antiwrinkle effects. This agent has emerged as a more accessible alternative to botulinum neurotoxin. Objective This study evaluates the public interest in acetyl hexapeptide-8 in the United States from 2013 to 2023, as described by search volume on Google, the most-used search engine. Methods We analyzed the longitudinal relative monthly search volume from January 1, 2013, to January 1, 2023, for acetyl hexapeptide–related terms. We compared the internet search trends for “Botox” during this period to “Argireline.” Results The terms “Argireline” and “Botox in a Bottle” both had substantial increases in search volume in 2022. Although its search volume is drastically increasing, “Argireline” was less searched than “Botox,” which had a stable, up-trending search volume over the past decade. Conclusions The increasing interest in acetyl hexapeptide-8 may be due to its cost-effectiveness and use as a botulinum neurotoxin alternative. Affordability, over-the-counter availability, and ease of self-application of the agent suggest its potential to enhance accessibility to cosmetic dermatologic care.