Common Name(s): Pentapeptide-18,leuphasyl variant

CAS Number: N/a

DESCRIPTION

What It Does: Inhibits neurotransmitter release via opioid receptor-mediated pathway, reducing expression wrinkle formation.

Why It's Used: Used as an opioid receptor-mediated expression line reducer, particularly effective in combination with snap-25 inhibitors for complementary synergistic effect.

How It Works: Enkephalin sequence analog binds mu/delta opioid receptors on motor neurons, activating gi-protein signaling that reduces camp and calcium channel opening, thereby decreasing acetylcholine vesicle release.

Typically Found In: Expression line treatments,anti-wrinkle serums

TECHNICAL DETAILS

Primary Category: Active ingredient – leuphasyl companion peptide

Secondary Functions: Opioid receptor neuromodulation,expression line reduction

Application Areas:

Typical Concentration Range: 100–500 ppm

SOURCING & ETHICS

Vegan Status: Yes – synthetically produced

Halal Status: Yes

Source Notes: Synthetically produced. encapsulation may improve delivery to neuromuscular junction.

SKIN COMPATIBILITY

Irritancy Rating: 1/5 – very low

Comedogenicity Rating: 0/5 – non-comedogenic

Sensitivity Concerns: Non-irritating.

Safe for Sensitive Skin: Yes

SAFETY & COMPATIBILITY

Safety Profile: Exceptional safety profile. ewg score: 1.

Works Well With: Hyaluronic acid,ceramides,retinol,moisturizers

Avoid Combining With: No significant incompatibilities

SCIENTIFIC NOTE

Pentapeptide-18's opioid receptor mechanism represents the same pathway as leuphasyl (enkephalin receptor inhibition), providing the same complementarity with snap-25 inhibitors like argireline for synergistic expression line reduction.

Last Verified: 2026-03-12

Primary Sources: Cosing database,gorouhi & maibach peptide review