The Science

The science of azure blue

Everything in the Azure Clinical routine is built around one ingredient: Copper Tripeptide-1, better known as GHK-Cu. Here is what it is, why it is blue, and how to get the best from it.

What is GHK-Cu?

GHK is a tripeptide: a short chain of three amino acids (glycine, histidine and lysine). It has a strong affinity for copper, and when the two bind together they form GHK-Cu, listed on ingredient labels as Copper Tripeptide-1.

In skincare, Copper Tripeptide-1 is used as a skin-conditioning ingredient. With consistent use it helps skin look smoother and firmer, helps reduce the appearance of fine lines, and supports a healthy-looking skin barrier.

How much is in our formulas?

  • Copper Peptide Multi-Active Serum: 3.0% Copper Tripeptide-1 complex, with 1.0% Niacinamide and five supporting peptides.
  • Squalane + Copper Barrier Recovery Cream: 1.5% Copper Tripeptide-1 with 10% Squalane.

We publish these percentages because we think you should know what you are paying for.

Why is it blue?

Copper complexes absorb light in the red-orange part of the spectrum, so what reaches your eye is blue. The colour of our serum comes from the copper peptide itself. We add no dye.

A few things to know:

  • The shade can vary slightly from batch to batch. This is normal.
  • The serum absorbs clear on skin. Any faint tint disappears as it sinks in.
  • Blue liquid can mark light fabrics if spilled, so let it absorb before putting on a white pillowcase or shirt.

The supporting cast

  • Niacinamide (vitamin B3): helps skin look more even and supports the barrier.
  • Peptide micro-complex: Tetrapeptide-4, Hexapeptide-9, Acetyl Tetrapeptide-9, Acetyl Hexapeptide-8 and Tripeptide-2, chosen to complement GHK-Cu on the look of smoothness and firmness.
  • Squalane: a lightweight emollient similar to lipids found naturally in skin. Softens and helps reduce moisture loss.
  • Centella Asiatica and Oat Peptide: soothing botanicals that help skin feel calm.
  • Hyaluronate and Panthenol: humectants that attract and hold moisture.

How to layer

Evening (the Azure Ritual)

  1. Cleanse and pat dry.
  2. Serum: 3–4 drops, pressed into face and neck.
  3. Cream: one pump, massaged in as your final step.

Morning

  1. Cleanse and pat dry.
  2. Serum: 3–4 drops.
  3. Moisturiser (or a thin layer of the cream if your skin is dry).
  4. Sunscreen, SPF 30 or higher. Every day.

Apply thinnest to thickest, and give the serum around a minute to absorb before the next step.

What not to mix (in the same step)

Copper peptides are happiest at a skin-friendly pH. Some ingredients can make the routine less effective or less comfortable if applied at the same time. We suggest:

  • L-ascorbic acid (vitamin C): use it in the morning and copper peptides at night, or alternate days.
  • Strong exfoliating acids (AHAs such as glycolic and lactic acid, BHAs such as salicylic acid): use on different evenings from your copper peptides.
  • Retinoids (retinol, retinal): many people use both successfully. If you are new to either, alternate nights to begin with, then combine once your skin is comfortable.
  • Benzoyl peroxide: keep it to a different time of day.

Niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, ceramides, squalane and most peptides pair well with copper peptides.

What to expect

Skincare works with consistency. Most people notice skin feels softer and more hydrated within the first couple of weeks. Changes in the look of fine lines and texture take longer: give the routine at least 8 weeks of twice-daily use before you judge it. Individual results vary.

A note on claims

Azure Clinical products are cosmetics. They are designed to improve the appearance and feel of your skin. They are not medicines and are not intended to diagnose, treat or prevent any disease or skin condition. If you have a skin condition, please speak with your doctor or dermatologist.