Copper Peptides

Key points

• Copper peptides are peptides that carry copper, added to creams and serums.
• They are marketed to support collagen, firmness and the skin's repair processes.
• On the skin, with no medicinal claims, they are regulated as cosmetic ingredients in the UK.
• The evidence is modest, and cosmetic benefits are best kept in proportion.

Quick facts

What it is

Cosmetic skincare peptide (copper)

Marketed for

Firmness, collagen and repair

UK status

Legal as a cosmetic ingredient (no medicinal claims)

Evidence

Modest

How it works

Copper has a role in the skin's natural repair and collagen processes, and binding it to a small peptide helps carry it into the skin. Most of the supporting evidence is from laboratory and manufacturer studies rather than large independent trials.

What the evidence shows

There are studies, often from manufacturers, suggesting modest improvements in the look and feel of skin. Independent, high quality trials are limited, so claims should be kept modest.

What it does not settle

• Independent high quality evidence is limited.
• Effects are usually modest and build slowly.
• Results depend on the product and how it is used.

Side effects

Common

• Topical peptides are usually well tolerated, though some people get mild irritation or redness. A patch test is sensible.

Report any suspected side effect through the MHRA Yellow Card scheme.

UK legal status and access

As topical cosmetic ingredients with no medicinal claims, copper peptides are legal and widely sold in skincare. Any version sold with medicinal claims, or for injection, would fall under medicines rules.

Common questions