The Ordinary’s Copper Peptide Serum ‘Has Honestly Transformed My Skin’ — And Derms Explain Why

Though not necessarily "better" than other topically applied peptides out there, board-certified dermatologist at MONA Dermatology in Ohio, Dr. Alexandra Bowles, said that copper peptides perform differently on the skin.

"I usually explain the difference as a messenger versus a message," she said. "Most peptides in OTC skincare are signal peptides, so they're telling your skin cells to do something. Copper peptides are actually delivering copper, which the skin needs for a lot of its normal repair processes."

Bowles describes copper peptides as small amino acids our bodies make naturally, and that bind to copper. As she already mentioned, copper is beneficial for skin repair, but also for "remodeling," including collagen production.

Bowles said she appreciates that The Ordinary's $32 serum doesn't rely on the 1% copper peptides alone.

"It also has several other peptides in it, plus hyaluronic acid for hydration," she said. "Some act as messengers that signal collagen and elastin production, which naturally slows down as we get older, so over time they can help with firmness, texture, and fine lines."

According to Bowles, it's best to use this serum at night, separate from vitamin C or exfoliating acids, since those can interfere with the copper. Also a friendly reminder from Bowles: "Peptides work gradually, so don't expect a dramatic change in a few weeks."

The Ordinary copper peptide serum supports the skin's natural collagen. Amazon

When it comes to public opinion of The Ordinary's indigo-hued formula, many users are finding great luck, including those with mature skin.

"I've noticed a huge difference in my skin since adding this serum to my routine. My skin looks smoother, healthier, and more refreshed, and it has that beautiful, youthful-looking glow that I'm always trying to achieve," one 62-year-old Amazon customer claimed in a review.

Others acknowledge that though other copper peptide serums are out there, these formulas are typically more expensive and don't seem to perform as well as The Ordinary's no-fuss version.

"I've tried the fancy copper peptides and didn't see the results this stuff has given me. On my third bottle- it lasts about two months if using twice a day. I've seen more progress with fine line reduction and smoothness than anything else out there," one reviewer wrote.

Bowles said that, as the case with any over-the-counter product to manage, there's a limit to how well it can perform and, peptide serums such as these should only play a part in the larger skin care picture.

"The science on copper peptides is exciting, but we're still learning how well different formulas actually get them into the skin and what that means for real results. Daily sunscreen, a good moisturizer, and a retinoid when it's appropriate are still going to do the most for your skin," she said.

Keep reading to see more undeniably convincing endorsements for The Ordinary serum or grab a bottle for yourself.

"Results beyond my expectations and perfect price point!! This multi-peptide copper serum has honestly transformed my skin. When I was younger, I spent way too much time tanning, and now I'm dealing with the consequences — sun spots, uneven tone, and more noticeable wrinkles. After consistently using this product, I've seen a real improvement in the appearance of my age spots, and my skin looks smoother, healthier, and more refreshed overall. The added hyaluronic acid gives my skin such a hydrated, plump look that my fine lines and wrinkles are far less noticeable. My face just looks brighter and more youthful. And the best part? The price. This is incredibly affordable compared to expensive treatments or injections, yet the results have genuinely impressed me. Definitely staying in my skincare routine! There is a slight weird smell but that goes away almost instantly and honestly with the results I've seen, I don't even care." — C. Black

"I've tried quite a few copper peptide serums over the years, and this is still one of my top picks. In fact, it was one of the very first copper peptide products that introduced me to this ingredient, and it made me a believer. I love that it's affordable, effective, and easy to fit into almost any skincare budget. It absorbs well, feels lightweight, and works beautifully with the rest of my routine. After consistent use, my skin looks smoother, feels healthier, and the appearance of my fine lines is softer. No skincare product can completely erase wrinkles, but copper peptides have become one of my favorite ingredients for supporting firmer, healthier-looking skin over time. If you're curious about adding copper peptides to your routine, I think this is an excellent place to start. I've repurchased it more than once, and it's a product I'll continue to recommend because it delivers great value for the price." — Warmth and Wellness Home

"This is worth its weight in gold – buy it! I've tried the fancy copper peptides and didnt see the results this stuff has given me. on my 3rd bottle- it lasts about 2 months if using twice a day. My skin hates all retinol products so this has become my alternative. I feel like it gives similar results and doesnt break me out. Since i dont use C serums or retinal and only a multi acid mask, i was able to add this to my routine without issues. Make sure to use only when not using those other products. Ive seen more progress with fine line reduction and smoothness than anything else out there. I use after hylauronic acid and before moisturizer." — nicoleh

"I'm 62 years old and very budget-conscious when it comes to skincare, so I'm always looking for products that actually deliver without costing a fortune. ***** Ordinary Multi-Peptide + Copper Peptides 1% ******* has been such a pleasant surprise!

I've noticed a ****** difference in my ****** since adding this serum to my routine. My skin looks smoother, healthier, and more refreshed, and it has that beautiful, youthful-looking glow that I'm always trying to achieve.

What I love most is that I'm getting an ********** anti-aging serum at a price I can actually ********. You don't have to spend hundreds of dollars on skincare to find something that works!

At 62, I'm thrilled with how my skin looks and feels. ****** is definitely one of my favorite skincare finds, and I'll be repurchasing it!*" — Lady T

The experts consulted for this story do not endorse the products ahead unless otherwise noted.

Last year, The Ordinary's 10% argireline solution came across my TikTok feed with reviewers claiming that it's "Botox in a bottle." After speaking with a board-certified dermatologist, I learned that this lightweight and water-based solution features a 10% concentration of Argireline, otherwise known as acetyl hexapeptide-8. It's a fancy name for a skincare ingredient that may reduce the appearance of expression lines by working as a neurotransmitter-inhibiting peptide similar to how the neurotoxins in Botox work. This could help soften dynamic expression lines and deep-set wrinkles and prevent new ones from forming.

Promising Sephora review: "MIRACLE product is not an understatement! I cannot believe EVERYONE is not raving about this product. I've been on a (seemingly futile) journey trying every serum under the sun in a desperate attempt to delay Botox. After just two weeks of usage, my forehead lines have faded SIGNIFICANTLY. An effective topical product for people with overactive forehead muscles? At this price point?? Life-changing." — Noctiflorous

When used properly, this potent exfoliation treatment is kind of like an at-home chemical peel that uses a blend of glycolic, lactic and salicylic acids to clear pores and remove the outer layer of skin in just 10 minutes. The result is a smoother and more radiant complexion with less visible acne scars and blemishes. Never use more than twice a week and apply only to clean, dry skin.

Promising Amazon review: "I have been using this product for 5 years now and it has been a game changer when I use it consistently. I get very OCD about how my skin feels and sleeping in makeup or sweating a lot makes me want to scrub my face until it's raw. I've found that washing my face and using this has helped my skin recover from issues like this and has dramatically improved my dullness. I use it about once a week, sometimes twice, and leave it on for about 10 minutes. You can notice the difference immediately. Throw away your scrub face washes and opt for this." — Ciara

We previously learned from dermatologists that topically applied caffeine is potent in antioxidants and can reduce puffiness and boost microcirculation by restricting blood vessels. This targeted solution for the undereyes contains a 5% concentration of caffeine and EGCG, which stands for epigallocatechin gallate, a polyphenol found in green tea that may help reduce the appearance of dark circles.

Promising Amazon review: "I'm really blown away with the results. I have dark purple under eye circles, and this made a noticeable improvement upon first use. I feel like I'm noticing greater improvement with each application, as well. I've tried countless expensive products, and I will continue to use others that target signs of aging, but for dark circles, this is the best I've found. Can't beat the price, either!" — B. Grover

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