When it comes to skincare, we’re always looking for the next big ingredient that is going to rejuvenate our skin and bring it back to life.
You’ve probably heard of antioxidants in skincare before, such as Vitamin C. Why they’re good for the skin is a bit of a lesson in chemistry.
Antioxidants are a type of compound that slows oxidation (a process that produces free radicals). Free radicals are unstable chemical compounds that need electrons to become stable. If they cannot steal an electron from another atom, they may start stealing them from our cells, which can cause damage to cell components, essentially leading to the appearance of ageing (wrinkles, sagging, age spots) and other skin concerns (dullness, dryness and more).
So, antioxidants are often found in skincare due to their use in slowing down this process over time.
There are a lot of types of antioxidants that can be used on the skin, one of which are copper peptides.
What Is Copper Peptide Serum?
Copper peptides work as both an antioxidant and a peptide (a chain of amino acids, which are the building blocks of protein).
The peptides work to replenish the amino acids in the skin, which are the building blocks of the main structural protein in skin, collagen.
A 2018 study published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences concluded, “GHK [human copper-binding peptide GHK-Cu] is a safe, inexpensive, extensively studied compound that has a wealth of positive and health-promoting effects in many tissues and systems.
“It has been widely used in anti-aging and cosmetic products in humans for decades without any adverse effects, and can be easily incorporated in creams, liposomes, dermal patches or delivered through microneedles.”
Of course, you need to make sure that the products you use have effective concentrations and formulations, but it is exciting new research into skincare that reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
What Are The Benefits Of Copper Peptide Serum?
Copper peptides are a powerful antioxidant. Antioxidants help to slow the effects of free radicals on the skin, aiming to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
In the same way, the peptide complex is designed to replenish the amino acids in the skin. Amino acids are the building blocks of collagen.
Some people prefer copper peptides as an alternative to vitamin C should their skin be sensitive to it.
What Should You Not Layer With Copper Peptides?
Try to avoid layering copper peptides with other forms of active skincare, such as Vitamin C, chemical exfoliants (AHAs, BHAs, PHAs) and retinols.
Can You Put Moisturiser Over Copper Peptides?
It should be fine to use a neutral moisturizer on top of your copper peptides.
The Best Copper Peptides To Shop In Australia
Multi-Peptide + Copper Peptides 1% Serum, $54.10, The Ordinary
This formula uses multiple technologies to target the signs of ageing. Using skin friendly amino acids, multiple hyaluronic acids and copper peptides, it’s designed to support skin elasticity, firmness and smoothness and target signs of ageing.
- This formula contains GHK-Cu (copper peptides)
- It also contains Matrixyl, Hyaluronic acid and amino acids
- Fine for use in the morning and night
Medik8 Copper PCA Peptides 30mL, $158, Adore Beauty
This copper peptide formula works to neutralize a broad spectrum of skin-damaging free radicals, leaving the complexion looking smooth and youthful.
- Powerful copper PCA peptides
- Supplemented by complementary antioxidants, extracts and hydrating ingredients
- Promotes plump, smooth skin
NIOD Copper Amino Isolate Serum 3 1:1 30mL, $143, Adore Beauty
This is NIOD’s third formulation of their award-winning Copper Amino Isolate Serum, designed to tackle the visible signs of ageing and also promote skin health.
- Restores a youthful radiance
- Fights the visible signs of aging
- Improves overall skin wellbeing
- Reduces the look of textural irregularities, including uneven skin tone, enlarged pores and dullness
Biossance Squalane + Copper Peptide Rapid Plumping Serum, $125, Sephora
Looking to plump your skin? This blend of three moisture-boosters: hyaluronic acid, polyglutamic acid and squalene also uses copper peptides to reduce the visible signs of ageing and offer a bouncier complexion.
- Massage onto a cleansed face and neck morning and night
- Contains squalane, hyaluronic acid and polyglutamic acid (PGA)
- Designed to support smoother, firmer skin
Plump It Up Peptide Serum, $21.95, Bondi Sands
Designed to plump and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, this formula is infused with matrixyl, collagen and copper peptide to target skin elasticity and assist with a more youthful complexion.
- Dermatologically tested
- Suitable for sensitive skin
- Utilises matrixyl, copper peptide and collagen
COSRX 6X Peptide Collagen Booster Toner Serum 150mL, $30, Amazon
This formula uses six different peptides all infused into the same bottle. This includes copper peptides, which are designed to smooth and resurface the skin for a healthier looking complexion.
- Designed to treat a multitude of concerns from blocked pores and excess sebum to the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
- Lightweight and non-sticky
- Softens and smooths the skin
Looking to save money on copper peptides? Check out our coupon codes for Sephora, Adore Beauty and more.
Related stories
Native ad body.
Native ad body.
Native ad body.
