Over the past few years, the beauty and skincare industry has introduced several trends for skincare enthusiasts.

From masks and diamond dust powders, to 24 carrot gold-infused oils and more recently, the copper peptide serum, metallics are taking over the industry.

If you are looking for a new thing to add to your skincare regimen, here is what you need to know about copper minerals/peptides and if they are the right choice for you...

What are Copper Peptides?

Peptides are chains of amino acids (building blocks of proteins) that naturally exist in the body but decrease as we age. When it comes to skincare, peptides are often applied topically through creams, serums, and moisturisers.

Different types of peptides perform different activities within skin. Coppers are carrier peptides that increase the uptake of copper by cells when paired with a tripeptide (glycyl-I-histidyl-l-lysine). Copper is a favourite due to its involvement in collagen deposition through the activation of lysyl oxidase. Research suggests that copper  increases collagen, glycosaminoglycan and adhesive protein production (Lupo and Cole, 2007), creating a firmer skin structure. Copper is also known for its anti-inflammatory support, regulating the skin's immune response when exposed to external aggressors. 

Copper minerals & peptides in skincare products can be made synthetically, or be derived from plant and animal sources. 

To know if a product contains copper peptides, look for words like, Copper PCA, GHK-Cu or copper tripeptide-1 on the product's  ingredient list of the box or back of product bottle that you are buying (but be sure to read the label carefully, because this ingredient is usually not at the top of the list).

Benefits of Copper Peptides and Minerals in Skincare

Copper peptides have several advantages in skincare. If you are in a cold or dry climate or coming in to Winter, you are likely to benefit more from copper peptides. Here are several reasons why you should use copper in your skin regime...

1. Makes the Skin Firmer

Copper peptides work like antioxidants. They work against toxic substances that can increase the appearance of sagginess or damage to the skin.

The peptides and minerals help the skin produce more elastin and collagen and can make the skin appear more youthful, firm, and vibrant. Our Copper Infuse Firming Gel is light and refreshing, and will tighten and strengthen the skin (especially post-procedure).

2. Reduces the Appearance of Wrinkles

Since copper peptides cause firmer skin, they can help reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. This is mainly because the peptides increase collagen proteins, which plumps up the skin in time.

As you continue to use a copper peptide serum or cream, you will also have reduced age spots and smaller pores.

3. Promotes Even Skin Tone

Copper ion peptides are better than any other type of peptide because they can even out the skin tone and repair it. They are also believed to remove damaged connective tissues from the skin and add new ones at the same time.

This reduces the appearance of acne scars, sunspots, stretch marks and any other damage to the skin. The peptides can work below the epidermis and produce impeccable results.

Some peptides are also antimicrobial, meaning that they can kill the bacteria that causes acne and help you have smoother skin.

4. Antioxidant Effects

A copper peptide serum also has antioxidant effects on the skin. This helps to prevent any further damage to the skin and also reduces inflammation. It can also reduce your chances of developing a skin infection.

5. Improved Skin Barrier and reduced Inflammation

Copper's make your skin’s barrier stronger, as well as reduce inflammation and inflammatory signals within skin. This reduces the risk of skin degeneration from prolonged periods of inflamed and irritated skin.

Your skin’s barrier is your body’s line of defence against pollution, ultraviolet rays, bacteria, and more. The skin barrier can be at risk of damage due to poor sleep, poor diet, stress, pollution, exposure to smoke, and over-exfoliation.

Our Liquid Lift Mist is oil free and will provide your skin with an invisible environmental shield against urban toxins and backlit devices. 

How to Use Copper Peptide on the Skin

There are two main ways of using copper peptides for skincare. The peptides are available in facial moisturisers and serums.

Note - it is not advisable that you use peptide-containing cleansers. This is because the effects of the peptides/minerals will wash away when used as a cleanser and are best to be used as a leave on product. Some of the ways of using peptides are the following:

Facial Moisturisers

Some facial moisturisers contain copper peptides. To ensure you get the best product, choose a moisturiser that matches your skin concerns and condition/health. Also, follow the instructions on how to use the product to achieve the desired effects. It is recommended that when incorporating a new product, use it consistently for at least 3 months. 

Copper Peptide Serums

Peptides can be used on the hair or skin. To get the right skincare results, use the serum after cleansing and exfoliating. Properly prepared skin avoids penetrative obstacles, congesting debris for the more efficacious dermal action.

Cons of Copper Peptides

Though copper peptides do not pose any major risks, there is always a small chance that you will experience an irritation. As a general rule of thumb (and especially if you have sensitive skin), perform a patch test first. 

If you experience any side effects, do not use the serum or moisturiser on your skin. Though unlikely, you may also experience copper toxicity. To avoid this, only buy copper mineral/peptide products from reputable sources like us here at LaGaia UNEDITED.

References
(Lupo M.P, Cole A.L. (2007) Cosmeceutical peptides. Dermatol Ther; 20(5): 343–9)