Copper Peptides Causing Skin Problems? Here’s What’s Actually Happening | Derm Explains
Highlights (7)
This video explains that “copper uglies” is not a medical diagnosis and explores why skin may become red, flaky, irritated, or breakout-prone after using copper peptides. The possible causes include how copper peptides are layered with vitamin C, benzoyl peroxide, exfoliating acids, or retinoids, as well as the condition of the skin barrier and the other ingredients in the formula. Copper peptides may have interesting science behind them, but they are not magic, and irritation should prompt a review of the entire formula and routine.
- “Copper uglies” is an internet term, not a diagnosis
- Separate pure ascorbic acid and copper peptides by time of day
- Avoid adding new actives to an already irritated skin barrier
- Check the full ingredient list and copper peptide concentration
- Copper peptides are promising but not proven to be magical









