I'm Utilizing Copper Peptides to Boost the Effects of My Botox—Here’s the Reason.

      (Image credit: @kaitlyn_mclintock)At 29, I underwent my first Botox treatment, documenting the whole experience for you, dear reader. To be precise, it was Dysport. (Botox, Dysport, Xeomin, Jeuveau, Daxxify, and Letybo are all different branded neurotoxins. They relax muscles and diminish wrinkles but vary in application speed, dispersion, and typical use cases.) The journey began when I became increasingly aware of a pronounced line developing between my brows. I attribute this to my unintentional resting face and poor eyesight, which often lead me to squint or furrow my brow. Nevertheless, I took the plunge, was thrilled with the results, and never regretted it. Since then, I've committed to a schedule of injections twice a year. Fortunately, the effects last about six months for me, surpassing the average of three to four months. Nonetheless, neurotoxins like Botox and Dysport can be costly. If there's a way to enhance, maintain, or prolong their effects, I’m all in.

      Enter copper peptides. I had seen a lot of buzz about them online—specifically regarding their status as the ideal skincare component for those who receive neurotoxin treatments. I was eager to find out if that was indeed the case. I also wondered how they compared to other peptides. So, as any good beauty editor would do, I consulted with the experts. Read on to discover everything you need to know about copper peptides.

      This image outlines the specific points where the dermatologist injected Dysport into my forehead. I received a total of 54 units to diminish my glabella line (the wrinkle between my brows) and achieve a subtle brow lift. (Image credit: @kaitlyn_mclintock)

      What Are Copper Peptides?

      Brendan Camp, MD, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology, explains that copper peptides are tripeptides (composed of three amino acids that serve as effective cell messengers) bonded with copper (the same element found in pennies). Natia Rufolo, FNP, NP-C, founder of Injx by Nat Aesthetics and a certified aesthetic injector and PDO thread specialist, states that the copper binding is crucial to their effectiveness. "The copper component provides additional regenerative and antioxidant benefits, making them particularly useful for healing and enhancing skin firmness," she mentions. "Copper peptides aid in collagen and elastin production, promote skin repair, and bolster overall skin strength and elasticity." In simpler terms, they help maintain skin that appears plump, smooth, and youthful.

      Which Skin Types Should Use or Avoid Copper Peptides?

      Experts agree that most skin types generally tolerate copper peptides well. "They work effectively for many skin types but are especially advantageous for aging, damaged, or compromised skin, and for those aiming to improve firmness and texture without causing irritation," notes Rufolo. However, both Camp and Rufolo advise caution for those with extremely sensitive or reactive skin. (Camp suggests conducting a patch test, irrespective of skin type.) "Copper peptides are typically well tolerated, but I recommend caution for very sensitive or reactive skin, particularly if there’s a compromised barrier or ongoing inflammation," Rufolo explains. "In such instances, it's preferable to introduce them gradually or avoid them entirely until the skin stabilizes, as they can sometimes trigger irritation when overused or combined with potent actives."

      Can Copper Peptides Actually Extend the Results of Botox?

      Now for the pressing question that’s been on my mind for a while: Can copper peptides truly enhance, maintain, or prolong the effects of neurotoxins like Botox and Dysport? The experts say yes, and also no. Here’s their insight. "I wouldn’t claim that copper peptides genuinely extend the duration of a neurotoxin, since there’s no substantial clinical evidence to support it," Rufolo acknowledges. "What they can achieve is improving overall skin quality—like texture, firmness, and healing—which can enhance the results of the toxins, making the skin appear smoother and healthier while the neurotoxin is effective." Camp elaborates, "Copper peptides are unlikely to boost the effects of neurotoxin injections, but they may complement the results of in-office cosmetic treatments as they can help address age-related changes, such as fine lines, wrinkles, and dark spots."

      In essence, they can enhance and even help sustain the effects of neurotoxins, but won’t necessarily extend or amplify them. For me, that provides ample reason to incorporate them into my skincare routine. Up next, discover the best copper peptide-enriched skincare products to try.

      For reference, here is how my forehead appears after the Dysport has taken effect. As you can see, I can’t furrow my brows as I used to, they are subtly elevated, and my skin is smooth. Success! Now I’ll be using copper peptides to enhance these results. (Image credit