Copper Peptides
Carrier peptides, chiefly GHK-Cu, that deliver copper to the skin and help it look firmer and smoother.
copper peptides, copper peptide, copper tripeptide-1, GHK-Cu, copper, copper gluconate, copper PCA, copper lysinate/prolinate
Ageing skin
What it does
Copper peptides pair the trace mineral copper with a small peptide, most often copper tripeptide-1, also known as GHK-Cu, which occurs naturally in the body. In skincare they can help with the look of skin elasticity and firmness, which in turn can help soften the look of fine lines. They belong to the carrier peptide family, and often sit alongside signal peptides in serums, creams and eye care.
How it works
Copper is essential to lysyl oxidase, the enzyme that links collagen and elastin fibres together so skin stays firm and springy. Carrier peptides such as GHK-Cu deliver copper to the skin, and laboratory work and small studies suggest GHK-Cu may support the skin’s own collagen, which keeps skin smooth and firm. On labels you will also see copper salts and complexes, such as copper gluconate, copper PCA and copper lysinate/prolinate, which supply copper without a peptide carrier.
MG says
Like other peptides, copper peptides can be used morning and evening, but apply them at a different time from AHAs, which can reduce their efficacy, and pair them instead with antioxidants, ceramides and hyaluronic acid. Eighth Day The Intensive Moisturiser, which pairs copper with peptides and ceramides, is one I often use as a final step in the treatment room to lock in actives and prevent water loss.
Cautions
Copper peptides are generally well tolerated and suit most skin types. Apply them at a different time from AHAs, which can reduce the efficacy of peptides, and patch test first if your skin is reactive.
