Copper Is The New It Ingredient In Skincare

Model image of copper skincare swatch on the skin

Copper is a do it all ingredient that you should consider adding to your skincare regime. Why? Copper peptides are naturally occurring in our bodies and act as an antioxidant; they’re responsible for everything from our skin’s firmness, plumpness, and smooth texture, to its elasticity, hydration, and the production of glycosaminoglycans (hyaluronic acid is an example of one) and collagen. But your body doesn’t create an endless supply of it. Production slows down after 20, then stops at 40; and, that’s where topical copper peptides and their youth-preserving benefits come in.

Even though the anti-ageing qualities are a big benefit; that’s not it. The hero ingredient is also anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory, with a whole host of healing properties that help to repair wounds and fight against breakouts and acne. Copper skincare is beneficial to every skin type and concern, which begs the question: why aren’t we all using it in our skincare regime?

If your only gripe is the price; I’m here to tell you that copper skincare is accessible to everyone. I’ve chosen three of the best formulas to fit every budget – take your pick of the line-up.

Best Copper Skincare Under £10

La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Baume B5 – Soothing Repairing Balm

Hand image of La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Baume B5 - Soothing Repairing Balm
Model image of La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Baume B5 - Soothing Repairing Balm swatch on the skin
First up is La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Baume B5, a multipurpose face and body repairing cream that harnesses the healing power of all-star ingredient copper, with the help of zinc and manganese peptides. The soothing cream is a skincare staple that the whole family can use. From babies to the elderly, you can use it for a whole host of skin irritations like eczema, dryness, acne, chapped lips, new tattoos, nappy rash, cuts and grazes. How do I use it? Firstly, as a spot treatment; copper’s anti-inflammatory properties instantly soothe unwelcome blemishes, and secondly as a nourishing balm for dry hands – it’s moisturising without feeling greasy! The thick formula feels comforting, working as a protective barrier from the outside world while my cuts heal. If you’ve been contemplating buying copper skincare, Cicaplast Baume B5 is the one to try.

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There’s also an SPF version that has a thinner texture! See Co-Editor Chelsey’s full review.

Best Copper Skincare Under £30

The Ordinary “Buffet” + Copper Peptides 1%

Hand image of The Ordinary "Buffet" + Copper Peptides 1%
Model image of The Ordinary "Buffet" + Copper Peptides 1% swatch on the skin

The Ordinary has turned its best-selling Buffet treatment electric blue with a shot of pure 1% copper peptides. The addition helps to improve skin structure by stimulating fibroblast production (fibroblasts are cells which create proteins like collagen that repair and heal) and collagen synthesis, resulting in improved skin elasticity, texture and firmness. And, as you know, copper has antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties, which make this serum great for anyone who struggles with skin irritation, sensitivity or acne.

Buffet’s original probiotic fueled formula is still at work, of course; balancing your skin’s flora (your skin’s ecosystem of good and bad bacteria) to combat signs of ageing, or skin concerns like sensitivity, dryness and breakouts. Multipurpose doesn’t cut it for this; the do it all serum is a great option for anyone who’s already tried copper products but wants to see the full effects of using it as part of consistent skincare routine.

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To learn more about this serum, and the mysterious world of your skin microbiome see Keavy’s edit here.

Best Copper Skincare Under £60

NIOD Copper Amino Isolate Serum 2:1

 Hand image of NIOD Copper Amino Isolate Serum 2:1
Model image of The Ordinary NIOD Copper Amino Isolate Serum 2:1 swatch on the skin
If you want to get serious about copper skincare settle in; Copper Amino Isolate 2:1 serum comes in a two-part system that requires you to activate the 100% pure copper peptides in a serum to ensure maximum potency when you use it. You might already be familiar with the first generation Copper Isolate formula. The 2:1 serum doubles the original 1% dose of copper peptides to 2% and the results? Used twice a day, the improved serum’s freshly activated copper peptides induce a state of skin repair by increasing fibroblast cell productivity, which then stimulates collagen production. In layman’s terms, it means that wrinkles, texture, pore size, and your skin’s overall health are improved – which is something I can get behind! Its anti-inflammatory properties are beneficial for everyone, especially acne-prone or irritable skin types.

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Discover Chelsey’s guide to how to use it, in a full NIOD review.

Discover More:

The Best Hyaluronic Acid Serums For Every Budget
Best Glow Foundations For Every Budget

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