19-05-2025
Copper Peptides: This Anti-Aging Active Ingredient Increases Skin Collagen by 70%
Skincare aficionados are always on the lookout for the next best anti-aging beauty innovation to upgrade their routine and counteract the effects of time. From collagen and vitamin C serums, to bakuchiol and retinol; the cosmetic industry is multiplying its variations to treat the first signs of aging and satisfy skincare aficionados. One of the latest? Copper peptides, the leading anti-aging active ingredient. Here's everything you need to know about its origin, use and benefits, before adding it to your routine.
What are copper peptides?
Naturally produced in our bodies, peptides are molecules made up of amino acids (the building blocks of protein). Their mission? Like little bricks, these molecules help build proteins such as collagen and elastin, which are fundamental to the skin's balance, influencing its texture, thickness and elasticity. Among the 16 billion (or so) peptides in existence, one in particular has caught the attention of cosmetic experts: the copper peptide GHK-Cu.
Discovered in 1973 by Dr Loren Pickart, this peptide has a very special feature: its extraordinary anti-aging power. In fact, copper peptides are known to stimulate collagen production, which helps preserve skin elasticity, and ultimately slows down the effects of time. According to a study carried out by the Reims Faculty of Medicine in 1998, collagen production increased by 70% after just one month's application of this famous molecule, compared with 40% for tretinoin, for example.
Promising multi-action power
Naturally present in the body, copper peptides offer our skin multiple benefits: healing action, a boost of elasticity, radiance and firmness, reduced wrinkles and fine lines, reduction of UV damage, smoother skin texture and more. In short, copper peptides combine promising anti-aging virtues, becoming a fantastic active ingredient for the skin. To incorporate it into your beauty routine, nothing could be simpler: start by using it every other day, while your skin gets used to it, then adapt the application according to your results.
Our favorite copper peptide products: The Ordinary Copper Peptides Serum, AED150
Photo: Revolution Skincare Revolution Skincare Copper Peptide Serum, AED128
Article originally published on Vogue France
