Copper peptides have been a staple in skincare for years, but recently, more brands are incorporating this versatile ingredient into their products. Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Jessie Cheung from Chicago told HuffPost that while copper is not as mainstream as retinol or vitamin C, it is far from new. "Copper peptides have been used in wound healing and anti-aging for years, and now the beauty industry is finally catching up."
What Are Copper Peptides?
Dr. Harold Lancer, a celebrity dermatologist based in Los Angeles, explained that copper peptides are generally considered a specialized, targeted ingredient found in advanced formulations and high-performance products. "They are best known for their ability to stimulate collagen and elastin production, which supports firmer, more resilient skin. They also have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, making them valuable for reducing redness, accelerating wound healing, and improving overall skin tone and texture."
Benefits for All Skin Types
According to Cheung, copper peptides can help remodel the skin, making them beneficial for all skin types, especially those dealing with aging, laxity, fine lines, or acne scars. She added that individuals with sensitive and redness-prone skin may find that copper peptides help calm inflammation and strengthen the skin barrier.
Growing Popularity
Both experts agree that copper peptides will likely continue to gain popularity because they align with the current trend toward bioactive, science-backed ingredients that support skin longevity and repair. Lancer noted, "They're not a passing fad — they've been studied for decades, and we're only now seeing broader consumer awareness and more refined formulations."
How to Use Copper Peptides
Lancer recommends looking for serums or treatments that place copper peptides front and center, rather than just as a trace additive. Copper peptides work beautifully with other regenerative active ingredients like antioxidants, growth factors, and retinol, so they can be used in tandem with other products for glowing, healthy skin.
Top Copper Peptide Products
Below are expert-recommended products featuring copper peptides to consider for your daily routine.
1. Ulta: Lightweight Copper Peptide Serum Under $35
This popular serum utilizes a cornucopia of ingredients, including copper peptides, to support the skin. It targets signs of aging and stress, leaving skin healthy, strong, and glowing. It is a great option for those trying peptides for the first time without spending much. Available at Sephora, Target, and Ulta for $32.
2. Amazon: Skin-Firming Mist
Dr. Cheung recommended iS Clinical Copper Firming Mist, stating it "packs multiple potent antioxidants with copper and copper PCA to protect from environmental pollution while firming, soothing, and moisturizing." She uses it often to soothe irritated skin and add moisture. Available at Amazon and Dermstore for $45.
3. Sephora: Ultra Nourishing Serum
Biossance offers a hydrating serum that helps plump the skin, boost collagen, and support overall skin health with copper peptides, hyaluronic acid, polyglutamic acid, squalane, and paracress extract. Available at Sephora and Amazon for $69.
4. Quicksilver Scientific: Powerful Serum
Cheung loves the Quicksilver Scientific Copper GHK Facial Serum, which combines copper GHK with bakuchiol to boost collagen, plus vitamin C and cycloastragenol to defend against free radicals. Available at Quicksilver Scientific for $60.
5. Medik8: Ultra-Hydrating Peptide Serum
This peptide-rich serum from Medik8 targets signs of aging while replenishing the skin's moisture barrier. It uses a blend of peptides, including copper peptides, to heal, restore, and renew skin. Available at Amazon and Dermstore for $67.
6. Dermstore: Splurge Serum from Isdin
Cheung recommends Isdin's Melatonik Serum, which includes melatonin, vitamin C, and bakuchiol alongside copper peptides for nighttime repair. Available at Amazon and Dermstore for $175.
7. Amazon: Luxurious Skin-Firming Facial Serum
Cheung recommends Omni Bioceutical Innovations Skin Firming Facial Serum, which delivers peptides deep into the skin for firming and toning. It addresses fine lines, wrinkles, uneven tone, sagging, redness, and breakouts. Available at Amazon for $69 and up.
This article originally appeared on HuffPost.
