| Mode of Action | Signal Skin to Repair Collagan |
| Use Primarily For | Skin Elasticity and Firmness |
| Wound Healing Effects | Rank : 5 |
| Anti-inflammatory Actions | Rank : 5 |
| Antioxidant Effects | Rank : 5 |
| For Skin Barrier | Rank : 5 |
| Side Effects | Rare; Irritation, Overuse Effects, Allergy |
| Synergy | With other antioxidants (Vitamin C, E), Hyaluronic Acid, Retinoids, Peptides. |
| Optimal pH | Slightly acidic to neutral pH environment : 5.0 to 7.0 |
| Counteract | High concentrations of Vitamin C, AHAs/BHAs, Strong Retinoids |
| Alternatives | Other Peptides, Retinoids, Vitaminc C, Niamcinamide |
| Vegan Status | Vegan |
| Cruelty-Free Status | Depends on Product |
| Normal Skin | Skin elasticity and firmness |
| Oily Skin | Regulates sebum production |
| Dry Skin | Supports skin barrier repair, increases hydration |
| Combination Skin | Supports skin barrier repair, increases hydration |
| Sensitive Skin | Anti-inflammation, reudces irritation and redness |
| Acne-Prone Skin | Reduces acne breakouts and heal scars. |
| Mature Skin | Collagen production, reducing wrinkles |
Copper Peptides
Copper peptides are recognized for their multifunctional properties, including supporting the skin's repair processes and improving the appearance of aging skin. Their ability to signal the skin to replace damaged collagen and elastin with new components has made them a key ingredient.
History
The discovery of copper peptides dates back to the early 1970s when Dr. Loren Pickart identified a naturally occurring complex in human plasma, saliva, and urine. This complex was found to possess significant wound healing properties, laying the groundwork for its skin rejuvenation capabilities.
Collagen Stimulation
Subsequent studies in the late 20th century highlighted the potential of copper peptides to stimulate the production of collagen and elastin. These components are crucial for maintaining skin elasticity and firmness, positioning copper peptides as a promising ingredient in anti-aging skincare.
Antioxidative Properties
Further research throughout the 1980s and 1990s expanded the understanding of copper peptides, showcasing their antioxidative properties and their role in promoting skin health by enhancing the skin's antioxidant defense system and supporting angiogenesis.
Contemporary Use
Today, copper peptides are recognized for their multifunctional properties. Their ability to signal the skin to replace damaged collagen and elastin with new components has made them a key ingredient in advanced skincare formulations aimed at promoting healthy, youthful skin.
Molecular Elements
Basic Composition
The most common and well-studied copper peptide in skincare is GHK-Cu (glycyl-l-histidyl-l-lysine copper complex). This molecule is naturally occurring in the human body and plays a pivotal role in the skin's healing and regeneration processes.
Mode of Action
The copper ion in copper peptides is crucial for their biological activity. It serves as a cofactor for various enzymatic processes in the skin, including the synthesis and stabilization of collagen and elastin. These are the structural proteins necessary for maintaining skin elasticity and firmness.
Signal Peptides
Copper peptides also function as signal peptides, meaning they can help signal the skin to produce more collagen, elastin, and glycosaminoglycans, components essential for maintaining the skin's structural integrity and hydration.
Tissue Remodeling
One of the unique aspects of copper peptides is their ability to promote the removal of damaged collagen and elastin from the skin. This process, known as tissue remodeling, is essential for the skin's repair mechanisms, allowing for the replacement of old, damaged tissues with new, healthy ones.
Effects
Stimulates Collagen Production
Copper peptides are renowned for their ability to enhance the skin's collagen production. Collagen is a crucial protein for maintaining the skin's firmness and elasticity, and its increased production can lead to reduced appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, contributing to a more youthful complexion.
Enhances Skin Elasticity and Firmness
By promoting the synthesis of elastin and collagen, copper peptides help improve the skin's overall elasticity and firmness. This results in a more supple and resilient skin texture, making it less prone to sagging and wrinkles.
Accelerates Wound Healing
Copper peptides possess strong wound healing properties. They support the skin's natural healing processes, aiding in the faster recovery of cuts, abrasions, and other minor skin injuries.
Anti-inflammatory Actions
These peptides exhibit anti-inflammatory properties, making them beneficial in reducing redness and irritation associated with various skin conditions, including acne and sensitive skin types.
Antioxidant Effects
Copper peptides also act as antioxidants, fighting against free radical damage that can lead to premature aging. They protect the skin from environmental stressors such as pollution and UV radiation, contributing to healthier, more resilient skin.
Improves Skin Barrier Function
They can enhance the skin's barrier function, increasing its ability to retain moisture and protect against external irritants. This results in improved hydration levels and a reduction in transepidermal water loss, leading to a more hydrated and healthy-looking skin.
Side Effects
Skin Sensitivity and Irritation
Some individuals may experience skin sensitivity or irritation when using copper peptides, especially those with sensitive skin types. Symptoms can include redness, itching, or a burning sensation upon application.
Overuse Effects
Excessive use of copper peptides can lead to less desirable effects, such as skin slackness or the degradation of collagen. It's important to follow recommended usage guidelines to avoid these potential side effects.
Allergic Reactions
Although rare, allergic reactions to copper peptides can occur. This might manifest as intense itching, redness, swelling, or the development of a rash. Discontinuation of the product and consultation with a dermatologist is advised if an allergic reaction is suspected.
Interaction with Other Skincare Ingredients
Copper peptides may interact with certain other skincare ingredients, such as vitamin C (ascorbic acid), leading to a decrease in their effectiveness or stability. It's recommended to space out the application of copper peptides and conflicting ingredients.
Synergy
Antioxidants
Combining copper peptides with antioxidants such as vitamin E and ferulic acid can provide a protective shield against environmental damage while enhancing the skin's natural repair processes.
Hyaluronic Acid
Using copper peptides with hyaluronic acid can boost skin hydration, leading to enhanced skin texture and elasticity. Hyaluronic acid provides the moisture that copper peptides need to facilitate the skin's healing and rejuvenation process.
Retinoids
Pairing copper peptides with retinoids (vitamin A derivatives) can accelerate cell turnover and boost collagen production, leading to improved skin texture, reduced wrinkles, and decreased pigmentation. However, it's essential to use them at different times of the day (e.g., copper peptides in the morning and retinoids at night) to prevent potential irritation.
Peptides
Combining copper peptides with other peptide formulations can enhance skin firmness, elasticity, and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Peptides work synergistically to signal the skin to produce more collagen, and copper acts as a catalyst in these processes.
Optimal pH Levels
Copper peptides are most effective in a slightly acidic to neutral pH environment, typically ranging from 5.0 to 7.0. This pH range ensures the stability of the copper peptides and allows them to be absorbed effectively by the skin.
pH Stability
Copper peptides are stable in a specific pH range, which is crucial for maintaining their structure and function. A pH environment that is too acidic or too alkaline can denature the peptides, rendering them less effective or inactive.
Skin Compatibility
The skin's natural pH ranges from slightly acidic to neutral. Using copper peptides within this pH range ensures compatibility with the skin's acid mantle, minimizing potential irritation and promoting better absorption.
Maximizing Efficacy
Operating within the optimal pH range allows copper peptides to effectively promote collagen and elastin production, enhance tissue repair, and exert their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, leading to improved skin health and appearance.
Counteract
| Ingredient to Avoid | Reason to Avoid |
| Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid) | High concentrations of Vitamin C can interact negatively with copper peptides, potentially leading to the degradation of both compounds and reducing their effectiveness. |
| AHAs/BHAs (e.g., Glycolic Acid, Salicylic Acid) | The acidic nature of AHAs and BHAs can destabilize copper peptides and lead to increased skin sensitivity or irritation when used simultaneously. |
| Strong Retinoids | Using strong retinoids in conjunction with copper peptides may increase the risk of skin irritation, redness, and peeling, especially for sensitive skin types. |
| Direct Acids | Similar to AHAs and BHAs, other direct acids can alter the pH environment of the skin, making it less conducive for copper peptides to work effectively and potentially leading to irritation. |
Comparison with Retinol
Retinol works by promoting rapid cell turnover and collagen production. Copper peptides, on the other hand, promote the production of collagen and elastin and also enhance the function of antioxidants. They have a more direct role in skin healing and inflammation reduction.
Comparison with Tranexamic Acid
Tranexamic acid targets hyperpigmentation primarily by inhibiting the interaction between melanocytes and keratinocytes and reducing melanin synthesis. Copper peptides do not directly target melanin production but can improve overall skin health, which may indirectly benefit skin tone and texture.
Copper Peptides for For Each type
Copper peptides are versatile and can benefit various skin types due to their healing, anti-inflammatory, and anti-aging properties.
Normal Skin
- Benefit: Enhances skin elasticity and firmness, reduces fine lines.
- Usage: Can be used in serums or creams as part of both morning and evening routines.
Oily Skin
- Benefit: Regulates sebum production and minimizes the appearance of pores.
- Usage: Look for lightweight, non-comedogenic formulations to avoid clogging pores.
Dry Skin
- Benefit: Supports skin barrier repair and increases hydration.
- Usage: Best used in combination with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid in richer creams or serums.
Combination Skin
- Benefit: Supports skin barrier repair and increases hydration.
- Usage: Best used in combination with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid in richer creams or serums.
Sensitive Skin
- Benefit: Reduces inflammation and aids in the healing of irritation and redness.
- Usage: Opt for products specifically formulated for sensitive skin, starting with a low concentration.
Acne-Prone Skin
- Benefit: Antimicrobial properties help reduce acne breakouts and heal scars.
- Usage: Seek non-comedogenic serums or spot treatments to apply directly to affected areas.
Mature Skin
- Benefit: Stimulates collagen production, reducing wrinkles and improving skin texture.
- Usage: Effective in serums, creams, and masks formulated for aging skin, used in both AM and PM routines.
Alternatives
- Peptides (Non-Copper Variants): Other peptides, such as Matrixyl (palmitoyl pentapeptide) and Argireline (acetyl hexapeptide), can stimulate collagen production and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, much like copper peptides.
- Retinoids: Retinol and its derivatives are well-known for their potent anti-aging effects, including stimulating collagen production, speeding up cell turnover, and improving skin texture.
- Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid): An antioxidant that can brighten the skin, boost collagen production, and reduce signs of aging. It's effective in repairing and preventing photo damage and evening out skin tone.
- Niacinamide (Vitamin B3): This vitamin works to improve the skin's barrier function, reduce redness and blotchiness, and increase elasticity. It's also effective in reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
- Hyaluronic Acid: Known for its incredible ability to retain moisture, hyaluronic acid can plump the skin, reducing the appearance of lines and making the skin look more youthful.
- EGF (Epidermal Growth Factor): EGF promotes cell renewal and wound repair, making it a powerful ingredient for improving the appearance of scars, fine lines, and wrinkles.
- AHAs/BHAs: Alpha hydroxy acids (like glycolic acid) and beta hydroxy acids (like salicylic acid) exfoliate the skin, improving texture, unclogging pores, and promoting cell regeneration.
Misconceptions
Copper Peptides Are Only for Anti-Aging
While copper peptides are renowned for their anti-aging properties, including reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, they also promote wound healing, improve skin elasticity, and have anti-inflammatory effects. They are beneficial for a variety of skin concerns beyond just aging.
Copper Peptides Can Replace All Other Skincare Ingredients
Though copper peptides have multiple skin benefits, they work best in conjunction with other skincare ingredients. For example, combining copper peptides with antioxidants like vitamin C or E can enhance skin protection and repair.
The More Copper Peptides, the Better
Like with any active ingredient, there's an optimal concentration for copper peptides. Using them in excess can lead to skin irritation or diminish their effectiveness. It's important to use products formulated with appropriate concentrations.
Copper Peptides Are Instantly Effective
The benefits of copper peptides, such as improved skin texture and reduced signs of aging, develop over time. Consistent use is necessary to see results, and improvements may be gradual rather than immediate.
Copper Peptides Are Suitable for Everyone
Although copper peptides are generally well-tolerated, individual skin types and conditions may react differently. People with sensitive skin or specific allergies should patch test any new product and consult with a dermatologist if unsure.
Copper Peptides Cause Skin Discoloration
There's a misconception that copper peptides can discolor the skin due to the copper component. However, when formulated correctly, copper peptides do not cause skin discoloration. Any change in skin color would likely be due to other factors or ingredients in a product.
What It Does in Each Form of the Product
Serums
- Action: Serums with copper peptides are highly concentrated formulations designed to penetrate deeply into the skin. They effectively stimulate collagen production, enhance skin elasticity, and support the skin's natural healing processes.
- Best For: Targeting specific concerns like fine lines, wrinkles, and loss of firmness. Ideal for applying directly to clean skin to maximize absorption and benefits.
Creams & Moisturizer
- Action: In creams and moisturizers, copper peptides work by reinforcing the skin's barrier, increasing hydration, and reducing the appearance of aging signs. These formulations often combine copper peptides with hydrating ingredients to lock in moisture.
- Best For: Providing all-over hydration and anti-aging benefits. Suitable for daily use, especially for dry or mature skin types that require extra moisture and barrier support.
Eyes Creams
- Action: Copper peptides in eye creams help to firm and tighten the delicate skin around the eyes, reducing the appearance of fine lines, crow's feet, and under-eye sagging. They can also diminish dark circles by improving skin health and circulation.
- Best For: Addressing aging signs specifically around the eyes. The gentle formulations are designed for the sensitive eye area.
Toners
- Action: While less common, toners containing copper peptides can help to balance the skin after cleansing, preparing it for subsequent products. They provide the skin with a light layer of copper peptides to improve skin texture and firmness.
- Best For: Prepping the skin for serums or moisturizers, adding an additional layer of copper peptides without heaviness.
Cleansers
- Action: Cleansers with copper peptides are designed to gently remove impurities while depositing a layer of copper peptides on the skin to start the healing and rejuvenating process from the first step of your skincare routine.
- Best For: Those looking to incorporate copper peptides into every step of their routine, especially beneficial for skin that is prone to damage or in need of repair.
Vegan/Cruelty-Free Status
Vegan Status
Copper peptides themselves can be made without using animal products, making them potentially vegan-friendly. However, it's essential to check the entire ingredient list of a product for other non-vegan components.
Animal Testing
Whether a product is cruelty-free (not tested on animals) depends on the brand's testing practices and whether they sell in countries that require animal testing for skincare products, such as in certain regulatory environments.
Incorporating to Your Routine
Morning Routine
- Cleanse: Start with a gentle cleanser to prepare your skin, removing any oils or products applied the night before.
- Tone: Apply a toner to help balance the skin's pH and remove any residual impurities.
- Copper Peptides: Apply a copper peptide serum or treatment. Morning is a good time for copper peptides as they can help protect the skin from environmental stressors throughout the day.
- Moisturize: Use a lightweight moisturizer to hydrate your skin and lock in the benefits of the copper peptides.
- Sunscreen: Finish with a broad-spectrum SPF of 30 or higher. Copper peptides can make your skin more sensitive to the sun, making sunscreen an essential step.
Night Routine
- Cleanse: Use a gentle cleanser to remove makeup, sunscreen, and the day's grime.
- Exfoliate (optional): A few nights a week, incorporate a gentle exfoliant to remove dead skin cells and enhance the absorption of skincare products.
- Copper Peptides: Nighttime is ideal for repair and rejuvenation, making it a perfect time to apply copper peptide serums or treatments. They work well overnight when the skin's natural repair processes are more active.
- Moisturize: Apply a richer moisturizer at night to deeply hydrate and support the skin's barrier while you sleep.
- Eye Cream (optional): If you use an eye cream, apply it last to target specific concerns like dark circles or puffiness.
Note About Copper Peptides
Copper peptides are generally safe for sensitive skin, but like any active ingredient, they can cause irritation in some individuals. It’s advisable to start with a low concentration and monitor your skin's response.
People Also Ask About Copper Peptides
A: Yes, copper peptides can be used with retinol. However, for best results and to minimize potential irritation, it is recommended to use copper peptides in the morning and retinol in your nighttime routine.
A: Copper peptides can help with acne scars by promoting collagen production and enhancing the skin's natural healing process. They may reduce the appearance of scars over time but should be part of a broader skincare approach for scar treatment.
A: No, copper peptides do not change the color of the skin. However, some users might experience a temporary blue tint on their skin if a high concentration of copper peptide serum is used. This tint is washable and not permanent.
A: Copper peptides are generally safe for sensitive skin, but like any active ingredient, they can cause irritation in some individuals. It’s advisable to start with a low concentration and monitor your skin's response.
A: Results from using copper peptides can vary depending on the individual's skin condition and concerns. Some users may notice improvements in skin texture and firmness within a few weeks, while significant changes, especially in terms of wrinkles and scars, may take several months of consistent use.
A: Copper peptides have been studied for their potential to stimulate hair growth by enhancing follicle size and stimulating blood flow to the scalp. They are found in some hair care products designed to treat hair thinning and loss.
A: While topical application of copper peptides is most effective for skin benefits, maintaining a diet rich in copper can support overall health, including skin health. Foods high in copper include nuts, seeds, and leafy greens.
A: Yes, copper peptides can be used around the eyes to improve skin firmness and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It's important to use products specifically formulated for the delicate eye area.
A: Like all skincare products, copper peptide formulations have an expiration date. Their efficacy can diminish over time, so it's best to use them within the period indicated on the packaging.
A: , copper peptides can be used on the body to improve skin texture, reduce the appearance of scars, and promote overall skin health. They are found in some body lotions and treatments.
Recommended Products
(!) We are not affiliated with the brand listed below. We measure carefully to find the best ones.
For Aging Skin
NIOD Copper Amino Isolate Serum 2:1 ($62)
This serum targets signs of aging, improving skin health and reducing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. Its high concentration of copper peptides stimulates collagen production, making it ideal for mature skin seeking rejuvenation.
For Damaged Skin
The Ordinary "Buffet" + Copper Peptides 1% ($32)
This multi-technology peptide serum includes a 1% concentration of copper peptides, complemented by a variety of other peptide complexes and amino acids to repair skin damage, boost elasticity, and enhance the skin's overall health.
For Scar Reduction and Healing
Mizon Peptide Ampoule Cream ($16.40)
This cream contains copper tripeptide-1 among its ingredients, focusing on improving skin elasticity, reducing wrinkles, and aiding in the skin's natural healing processes. It's particularly good for skin that has been damaged or is in need of repair.
For Dull and Dehydrated Skin
COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence ($96)
While not exclusively a copper peptide product, this essence contains a small amount of copper tripeptide-1 along with snail mucin to hydrate, repair, and brighten the skin, making it a great multi-tasker for dull and dehydrated skin types.<
