5 best copper peptide products for your skin

When searching the ingredients list of any given skin care product, by now you're probably used to seeing peptides in the mix. Featured in everything from moisturizers to cleansers, experts say that the ingredient provides hydration and can even help repair your skin barrier.

But you're likely not as familiar with one specific kind, copper peptides, which have buzzed about on social media and have been popping up in an increasing number of products.

In case you're wondering what exactly the ingredient is and how it can benefit your skin, we talked to two dermatologists to get their insights.

Our top picks

Best overall

Multi-Peptide + Copper Peptides 1% Serum

$32.00

Amazon

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Expert favorite

Squalane + Copper Peptide Rapid Plumping Serum

$68.00

Amazon

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Best budget pick

Super Peptide Serum

$12.00

Amazon

Learn more

What are copper peptides? | What do copper peptides do for the skin? | Best skin care products with copper peptides, according to experts | Best copper peptide products, according to shoppers | How we chose | Meet our experts

According to Dr. Brendan Camp, a double board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology, copper peptides are tripeptides — groups of three amino acids — that are bound with copper.

They "form complexes in the body that play important roles in collagen production and tissue repair," shares Dr. Blair Murphy-Rose, a cosmetic and medical dermatologist in New York City.

There's a good reason why there's been some buzz around the ingredient recently. According to both experts, products featuring copper peptides have a number of benefits for the skin.

"Copper peptides can support collagen and elastin production," explains Murphy-Rose. This is especially helpful for aging skin, since they naturally decrease as we get older. She adds that the ingredient can also help calm skin and promote healing.

"Copper peptides are thought to possess antioxidant properties that protect skin cells from free oxygen radicals," Camp says. He adds that they've gained attention for their potential benefits for treating discoloration caused by sun damage and hyperpigmentation.

While there's limited research on copper peptides, Murphy-Rose says that it seems to suggest that the ingredient has great benefits for the skin, with little risk of irritation or other adverse effects. "I have recommended copper peptides to patients, especially those looking for non-retinoid products for improving skin elasticity, texture and signs of aging."

Since the ingredient can be used to both treat and prevent signs of aging, she says that it's beneficial for a range of people, "from early adulthood to those with mature skin."

Most commonly, you'll find the ingredient included in serums, as they can improve the delivery and penetration, Camp shares.

Keep reading to shop some of the top products that the dermatologists recommend — plus, we found some more shopper favorites for you to try.

Size: 1 oz. | Key ingredients: Copper peptides, Matrixyl 3000, Argirelox peptide, hyaluronic acid

According to Murphy-Rose, this unique blue-colored serum helps target signs of aging "by promoting collagen production, improving skin elasticity and reducing fine lines." She adds, "It is an excellent option for those looking for a more affordable way to incorporate copper peptides into their routine."

Along with the peptides, it also features multiple hyaluronic acids, Camp shares.

Size: 1 oz. | Key ingredients: Copper peptides, wild yam extract, vegan collagen amino acids

Murphy-Rose says that this "science-backed formula" features collagen-boosting properties "to help firm skin, reduce fine lines and improve overall texture." It's gentle, so she adds that it's suitable for most skin types.

Size: 1.69 oz. | Key ingredients: Biossance Rapid Plumping Complex

This serum, which was recommended by both experts, "combines the collagen supporting benefits of copper peptides with the moisturizing power of squalane for visibly plumper, smoother skin," Murphy-Rose shares.

Size: 1 oz. | Key ingredients: Copper peptides, Acetyl hexapeptide-8, acetyl octapeptide-3

This affordable formula features multiple kinds of peptides, including copper peptides, to help target fine lines, wrinkles and dullness, the brand says.

It's designed to be used both morning and night and should be applied before any oils or creams.

Size: 1 oz. | Key ingredients: Copper peptides, peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalane

Say hello to firmer, bouncier skin! This serum promises to deliver just that, thanks to ingredients like copper peptides, squalane and hyaluronic acid.

"As someone who has tried so much skincare, I could open my own shop, this product is phenomenal," one shopper wrote. "My skin just drinks it up and looks more glowy, hydrated, plump and refined. It is soothing like a tall glass of water for my dehydrated skin."

Using retinol at the same time as copper peptides may reduce the product's efficacy, Camp says. The same is true for vitamin C and AHAs.

If you're using a topical retinoid or retinol product it may be best to alternate days, so you're not using both at the same time, Murphy-Rose says.

"Copper peptides can be used in the morning or evening," says Murphy-Rose. "It can be optimal to use copper peptides as part of your nighttime skincare routine when the skin undergoes repair and renewal overnight."

To help you discover the best copper peptide products, we asked the two dermatologists to share their top recommendations. We also sorted through additional products featuring the ingredient to find shopper-loved options that have a greater than 4.5-star rating from hundreds of reviews.

Emma Stessman is a writer for Shop TODAY.