TAmong the skincare trends comes the copper peptide serumone of the most discussed ingredients of the moment. This is confirmed by the data analyzed by Fresha, dove searches for “copper peptide serum” they have increased by 313% in the last year, reaching 246,000 monthly searches. An interest that speaks well of the new direction of contemporary skincare: less aggressive, more oriented towards repair.
Copper peptide serum: the benefits for the skin
THE copper peptides they are molecules composed of short chains of amino acids which, in the cosmetic world, are used in serums and treatments intended to improve the general appearance of the skin, supporting its firmness, elasticity and uniformity. In practice, they are generally considered “repairing” and “pro-age” ingredients, not exfoliating.
Their role is more subtle and progressive: they accompany the skin in maintaining a healthier and more resistant appearancewithout causing that effect of “reset” typical of acids and peeling.
As Danielle Louise, beauty expert at Fresha, explains: «Think of the copper peptide serum as a support product, not as an aggressive exfoliating or regenerating product. It does not serve to “peel” the skin or give that immediate sensation of smooth skin that can be achieved with an acid. Rather, it’s about helping the skin appear healthier, smoother and more resilient over time.”
Who are they recommended for?
Copper peptide serums are particularly appreciated by those who want to improve the overall quality of the skin without resorting to overly aggressive active ingredients. They are often included in routines dedicated to fine lines, loss of firmness and uneven texturehelping to make the complexion more uniform, toned and luminous over time.
They are also widely used during periods in which the skin appears stressed or sensitized after the intensive use of ingredients such as exfoliating acids, retinoids or vitamin C in high concentrations. Precisely because of their delicate nature, they also find space in skincare aimed at supporting the skin barrier and maintaining the skin’s balance.
«We’ve gone through years where people layered acids, retinoids, vitamin C, exfoliating toners and intense masks. Now many consumers are wondering how to support their skin, instead of continually pushing it to its limits. Copper peptides fit into this change because they appeal to those who want well-groomed-looking skinhealthy and quality, not tense, shiny or over-treated” explains Danielle Louise.
How to include them in your skincare routine
Like most Exfoliating ingredients should be introduced gradually within the beauty routine, leaving your skin time to get used to it.
«It is better to start slowly, applying the serum two or three times a week, depending on your skin type, after cleansing and then complete the routine with a simple moisturizing cream. The key is to keep the rest of the routine calm. Be careful not to combine copper peptides with other strong exfoliating acids such as retinol in high concentrations or an illuminating treatment» continues Danielle Louise.
In practice, a balanced evening routine can be limited to three simple steps: a gentle cleanser, copper peptide serum and a nourishing and repairing moisturizer. In the morning, however, it remains essential to apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen, an essential step in any skincare routine.
When it is better to avoid
Yet despite its popularity there are some precautions to take into consideration, especially when the skin is irritated.
«If the skin burns, flakes, is inflamed, damaged, reactive or very sensitive, it is not the time to add another active ingredient. Let the skin recover first” explains Danielle Louise.
«I would also avoid directly layering the copper peptide serum with strong exfoliating acids, high concentration retinoids, or pure vitamin C in the same routine. This doesn’t mean you can never use these ingredients, but you may need to use them at different times of the day or on alternate evenings.
Finally, if someone is using prescription skincare or has a particular skin condition, they should speak to a qualified professional before adding new assets” concludes the expert.