With the recent surge of skin care ingredients taking over our social feeds, it seems that our daily beauty routine has become a chemistry lesson of its own – and we’re here for it. From getting clued up on how ceramides protect your skin barrier to reciting the benefits of retinol (courtesy of the latest TikTok video), it can’t be denied there’s a lot of information to decode and absorb.
That’s where we come in. Here at Cult Beauty, we’ve done the homework for you, and discovered everything you need to know about the latest skin care components on everyone’s lips – copper peptides. So, without further ado, it’s time to uncover what copper peptides actually are, their benefits and so much more…
WHAT ARE COPPER PEPTIDES
Lab coats at they ready… Copper peptides are short chains of amino acids (aka protein building blocks) that carry copper ions – also known as Cu2+. Found naturally in the body, they’re classed as antioxidants that help rescue damaged skin by stimulating collagen production. What’s more, generally featuring in face serums, they also protect your barrier function while strengthening and firming your complexion.
WHY SHOULD WE USE COPPER PEPTIDES
As you age, the level of copper peptides in your body naturally decrease. Therefore, adding them into your daily beauty regime allows your complexion to maintain a constant state of repair. When applied topically, they work to promote collagen and elastin production while acting as an anti-inflammatory. The result? Softening the appearance of fine lines, pigmentation and uneven skin tones.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF COPPER PEPTIDES
Like any true multitasker, there are bountiful benefits that come with incorporating copper peptides into your skin care routine. Keep scrolling and you’ll see what we mean…
Reduce the appearance of fine lines: by increasing your collagen protein levels, copper peptides aid in the reduction of fine lines. Want to discover more about how the building block works? Take a look at our 101 Guide To Collagen to brush up on your knowledge.
Boost firmer looking skin: as well as collagen, these antioxidants also improve the production of elastin proteins. Responsible for the stretchiness and strength of your dermis, they create a firmer looking visage.
Even out skin tone: copper peptides have the ability to even out your skin tone. By working hard to remove damaged tissues from your skin while simultaneously replenishing them, they have the potential to reduce the look of sunspots, scarring and more.
Reduce redness: acting as an anti-inflammatory, copper peptides also help to speed up healing, making them ideal for treating redness caused by inflammation (rosacea we’re looking at you).
Banish breakouts: and if all the above wasn’t enough, copper peptides can also alleviate blemishes by normalising the bacterial concentration and resorting equilibrium back to your complexion – keeping dirt, debris and daily pollution at bay.
HOW TO USE COPPER PEPTIDES IN YOUR SKIN CARE ROUTINE
Now we’ve laid out what copper peptides actually are, it’s time to uncover how to put them to good use.
Before incorporating them into your routine, it’s important to note that copper peptides should only be used when concentrated in skin care… and for the most part that’ll be as a key ingredient within face serums.
Like all serums, its best to use your chosen solution twice day. This will ensure protection against external aggressors during the day, then help with your skin’s repairing process overnight. But, if you’re a fan of using using retinol, retinoids or vitamin C within your regime, we suggest skin cycling the use of copper peptides – for example one evening you can use your serum, and then the next your retinol… you get the gist.
Oh, as you may not get all the hydration your skin needs from Copper Peptides, we recommend using them alongside humectants like hyaluronic acid or glycerine acid, to lock in some much-appreciated moisture.