What is the recommended dosage for Copper?

General: 900 mcg/day (RDA); Skin Health: 900 mcg-2 mg/day

What are the side effects of Copper?

Potential side effects include: Nausea and vomiting (at high doses), Liver toxicity (chronic excess), Zinc depletion with long-term high-dose use.

What is copper and how may it relate to skin health?

Copper is a trace mineral essential for lysyl oxidase, the enzyme that cross-links collagen and elastin fibers. It is also required for melanin production via tyrosinase. Copper peptides are well-established in topical skincare for wound healing and anti-aging. Oral copper supplementation is typically addressed through diet or multivitamins.

What is the recommended intake of copper for skin health?

The RDA for copper is 900 mcg for adults. Copper deficiency is uncommon in developed countries but can occur with high zinc supplementation (which inhibits copper absorption). Copper-rich foods include liver, shellfish, nuts, and dark chocolate. Supplemental copper is rarely needed unless zinc supplementation creates a deficiency.

What are the potential side effects of copper supplements?

Excessive copper intake causes nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and at high doses, liver damage. The tolerable upper intake level is 10,000 mcg (10 mg) daily. Wilson disease patients must avoid copper supplements. Copper supplements should generally only be taken if zinc supplementation has created a documented copper deficiency.

Copper

mineral

Also known as: Copper Bisglycinate, Copper Gluconate, Copper Peptides (topical), Cu

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About

Copper is an essential cofactor for lysyl oxidase (collagen/elastin cross-linking), tyrosinase (melanin synthesis), and superoxide dismutase (antioxidant defense). The copper-zinc balance is critical — supplementing one without the other can cause depletion. Topical copper peptides (GHK-Cu) have stronger evidence than oral copper.

How It Works

Essential cofactor for lysyl oxidase (collagen/elastin cross-linking), tyrosinase (melanin synthesis), superoxide dismutase (antioxidant defense), and cytochrome c oxidase (mitochondrial energy); supports dermal connective tissue integrity and wound healing.

Evidence For Conditions

Condition	Grade	Studies	Participants
Wound Healing	D	3	150	View →
Collagen Loss	D	2	100	View →

Side Effects

Nausea and vomiting (at high doses)
Liver toxicity (chronic excess)
Zinc depletion with long-term high-dose use

Drug & Supplement Interactions

Zinc supplements (mutual absorption competition — separate by 2+ hours)
Penicillamine (chelates copper — separate by 2+ hours)
Antacids (may reduce copper absorption)

Always inform your healthcare provider about all supplements you take.

Related Ingredients

Selenium Silicon (Silica) Zinc

Quick Facts

Dosage: General: 900 mcg/day (RDA); Skin_Health: 900 mcg-2 mg/day
Forms: capsule tablet liquid topical (copper peptides)
Natural Sources: Liver, Shellfish (oysters), Dark chocolate, Cashews, Sunflower seeds, Lentils
Upper Limit: 10 mg/day (excess competes with zinc absorption)
Best Time: With meals; avoid taking with zinc — separate by 2+ hours

Evidence Summary

Wound Healing D

Collagen Loss D

FDA Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The products and information on this website are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The evidence grades presented are based on our analysis of published peer-reviewed research and do not constitute medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen.