Copper peptide has been shown in a number of medical studies to promote healing of the skin. A few studies have also suggested that it can improve collagen in the dermis. (See the Web address below for references.)

It may have some value as an antiaging skin treatment. There are some positive Net reviews of copper peptide, with some people reporting smoother skin texture or improvement in some types of scars. However, others report only a slight effect. Currently, the positive medical evidence for copper peptide as a treatment for photoaging is not nearly as extensive as for tretinoin.

Products With Copper Peptide

Copper peptide products are available without a prescription. Some copper peptide products are sold at high-end department stores, but usually they are very expensive. Neutrogena makes a low-concentration copper peptide product called Visibly Firm Night Cream that costs about $17 for 50 grams. It is available at many drug stores and grocery stores. You can check www.neutrogena.com for more information on this product. (Note that some Neutrogena boxes have a stamped expiration date that indicates a shelf life of about three years, but other boxes have no date.)

The scientist who originally developed copper peptide skin treatments has medical studies and extensive product information at www.skinbiology.com and www.skinbio.com. You can order his products online or by mail, and the prices are reasonable. His products are generally a better value than the Neutrogena product or those at department stores because they have a higher concentration of copper peptide.

Image by Audrey, Creative Commons License