While copper peptides have been found in skin care items for quite some time, there seems to be an uptick in brands utilizing this versatile ingredient in their beauty products. Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Jessie Cheung in Chicago explained to HuffPost that while copper isn’t as mainstream as retinol or vitamin C, it’s definitely not new. “Copper peptides have been used in wound healing and anti-aging for years, and now the beauty industry is finally catching up.”
Dr. Harold Lancer, a celebrity dermatologist in Los Angeles, added that it is generally considered more of a specialized, targeted ingredient that is typically found in advanced formulations and high-performance products. Copper peptides “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.”
According to Cheung, because copper peptides can help remodel the skin, all skin types can benefit from it, especially those dealing with “aging, laxity, fine lines or even acne scars.” She added that those with sensitive and redness-prone skin might also find that it can help to calm inflammation and strengthen the skin barrier.
Both experts agree that copper peptides will likely continue to grow in popularity because they “fit the current trend toward bioactive, science-backed ingredients that support skin longevity and repair. 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,” said Lancer.
He recommends “looking for serums or treatments that place copper peptides front and center, rather than just as a trace additive.” It works beautifully with other regenerative active ingredients like antioxidants, growth factors and retinol, so you can use them in tandem with other products for glowing, healthy skin.
Below, we’ve rounded up a selection of products featuring copper peptides, per our experts’ recommendations. Take a look and snag one to add to your daily routine.
Ulta
A lightweight copper peptide serum under $35
This popular serum utilizes a cornucopia of ingredients (including copper peptides) to support the skin. It’s designed to target signs of aging, stress and leave skin looking and feeling healthy, strong and glowing. It’s a great option for someone who wants to try peptides out for the first time but doesn’t want to spend a lot of money.
Amazon
A skin-firming mist
Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Jessie Cheung recommended iS Clinical Copper firming mist, saying it “packs multiple potent antioxidants with copper and copper PCA to protect from environmental pollution while firming, soothing, and moisturizing. I happen to have this delightful mist and use it often. It soothes irritated skin, adds a hint of moisture and leaves my skin glowing and smooth. It also serves as the perfect base for my skin care and makeup, especially during the dry weather season.”
Sephora
An ultra nourishing serum
Biossance is a reliable brand for anyone looking to infuse their routine with effective ingredients without dropping hundreds on harsh products. This hydrating serum can help plump the skin, boost collagen and support overall skin health thanks to copper peptides, a blend of hyaluronic acid, polyglutamic acid and squalane along with paracress extract. It’s as nourishing as it is effective.
Quicksilver Scientific
A powerful serum
“I love the Quicksilver Scientific Copper GHK facial serum, a powerhouse formula with copper GHK and bakuchiol to boost collagen syngergistically, vitamin C and cycloastragenol to defend against free radical damage and support cellular resilience,” said Cheung. It’s designed to be used daily and target age-related skin concerns while also supporting a healthy and strong complexion.
Medik8
An ultra-hydrating peptide serum
Like most of Medik8’s cult-fave, effective products, this peptide-rich serum is designed to quickly target signs of aging while replenishing your skin’s moisture barrier and giving you a beautiful glow. It uses a blend of peptides, including copper peptides, and can help to heal, restore and renew skin, leaving it supple and firm. After years of using many of Medik8’s products, I am eager to add this one to my routine.
Dermstore
A splurge-y serum from a popular Spanish brand
“I often recommend Isdin’s Melatonik serum, which includes melatonin, vitamin C and bakuchiol alongside copper peptides for nighttime repair,” said Cheung. If Isdin’s editor-beloved SPF is any indicaiton, this multifunctional and powerful editor is likely worth every penny.
Amazon
A luxurious skin-firming facial serum
Cheung recommends the versatile Omni Bioceutical Innovations Skin Firming facial serum, saying it “delivers several peptides deep into the skin for firming and toning.” It’s definitely an investment, but one that could have you reaping those highly-coveted youthful skin rewards. it’s formulated to help with a wide range of isues, from signs of aging like fine lines, wrinkles, uneven tone and sagging skin along with redness, irritation, breakouts and more.
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