Copper peptides, signal peptides and trends in skin research.
- Signal peptides in skin care
- How they are combined with classic active ingredients
Signal peptides in skin care
Peptides in skincare are often divided into signal peptides (Matrixyl), carrier peptides (GHK-Cu) and neurotransmitter peptides. They are studied for collagen, elasticity and skin barrier.
How they are combined with classic active ingredients
Peptides are often used in conjunction with niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and sunscreen. They are not a replacement for retinoids, but they offer a gentler avenue of research.
The list
The list is editorial and is based on how often the substances appear in research – not on proven efficacy or safety in humans.
The difference between potential and evidence
Always review safety, study size, control groups, and whether the results have been replicated. Be especially wary of claims that promise quick or guaranteed effects.
Sources and further reading
We refer to published research and authorities. Research results do not mean that a substance is safe or approved for humans.
- 01
Regenerative and Protective Actions of the GHK-Cu PeptideInternational Journal of Molecular Sciences, 2018Review article on the research on the copper peptide GHK-Cu.
- 02
CosIng – database of cosmetic ingredientsEuropean CommissionEU register of ingredients in cosmetics, e.g. copper peptides.
- 03
Current research on MatrixylPubMed (NIH)Search in the scientific database PubMed – compiles published studies.
- 04
Current research on MatrixylPubMed (NIH)Search in the scientific database PubMed – compiles published studies.
- 05
Current research on AHK-CuPubMed (NIH)Search in the scientific database PubMed – compiles published studies.
- 06
Current research on PAL-GHKPubMed (NIH)Search in the scientific database PubMed – compiles published studies.