The skincare industry can often be a labyrinth of confusion for consumers. With a plethora of products on the market, each boasting a myriad of health claims, it can be challenging to discern fact from fiction. Manufacturers often make grandiose claims about their skincare products, promising to deliver miraculous results. However, these claims can sometimes be greatly exaggerated, leaving consumers out-of-pocket and underwhelmed.

It is therefore crucial to exercise due diligence when shopping for skincare products. Taking claims about products at face value may not always yield the desired results. It is essential to delve deeper into the ingredients used within the products and understand their efficacy in delivering the promised results.

In this article, we will be critically analyzing the Multi-Peptide + Copper Peptides 1% Serum by The Ordinary. This anti-aging serum has made several claims about its effectiveness, and we will be examining these claims in light of the ingredients used within the product. This truth assessment aims to establish whether or not the product really will live up to its claims.

Let’s look at the main claims being made about this product and break them down:

Claim #1: The Product Targets Multiple Signs of Aging

The Ordinary’s Website States: “Multi-Peptide + Copper Peptides 1% is a universal formula which utilizes multiple skin support technologies that target multiple signs of aging at once.”

Truth Assessment: True

Explanation: The product contains several peptides such as Copper Tripeptide-1, Acetyl Hexapeptide-8, and Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, among others. Peptides are known for their anti-aging properties as they stimulate collagen production, which can reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Additionally, the product contains Sodium Hyaluronate, a form of hyaluronic acid, which is known for its ability to retain moisture, plump the skin, and reduce the appearance of wrinkles.

Claim #2: The Product Improves the Appearance of Fine and Dynamic Lines

The Ordinary’s Website States: “Multi-Peptide + Copper Peptides 1% helps to improve the appearance of fine and dynamic lines.”

Truth Assessment: True

Explanation: The peptides in the product, particularly Acetyl Hexapeptide-8 (also known as Argireline), are known to reduce the appearance of dynamic facial lines. Argireline works by limiting the neurotransmitter release in your muscles, reducing the repetitive facial movements that can lead to wrinkles and fine lines. Additionally, Sodium Hyaluronate helps to hydrate and plump the skin, which can also reduce the appearance of fine lines.

Claim #3: The Product Supports Skin’s Overall Elasticity, Smoothness, and Firmness

The Ordinary’s Website States: “Multi-Peptide + Copper Peptides 1% supports your skin’s overall elasticity, smoothness and firmness.”

Truth Assessment: True

Explanation: The product contains Copper Tripeptide-1, which is known to promote the production of collagen and elastin, proteins that contribute to skin’s elasticity and firmness. Additionally, the product contains several amino acids like Glycine, Alanine, and Serine, which are building blocks for proteins like collagen and elastin, further supporting skin elasticity and firmness. The presence of Sodium Hyaluronate, which hydrates and plumps the skin, can also contribute to the skin’s overall smoothness.

Claim #4: The Product Targets Signs of Aging Associated with Oxidative Stress

The Ordinary’s Website States: “And because this advanced serum contains direct copper peptides, it also targets signs of aging that are typically associated with oxidative stress.”

Truth Assessment: True

Explanation: Copper peptides, such as Copper Tripeptide-1 included in this product, are known for their antioxidant properties. Antioxidants help to neutralize harmful free radicals that can cause oxidative stress and lead to premature aging of the skin. Therefore, the claim that this product targets signs of aging associated with oxidative stress is true.

Assessment Verdict:

Truth Rating: 9/10

Overall likelihood for product to make good on its claims: Highly Likely

The Ordinary’s Multi-Peptide + Copper Peptides 1% appears to be a highly effective product based on its ingredient list. The presence of multiple peptides, including Copper Tripeptide-1 and Acetyl Hexapeptide-8, along with Sodium Hyaluronate, supports the claims made by the brand. These ingredients are known for their anti-aging properties, ability to improve the appearance of fine lines, and support skin elasticity and firmness.

However, it’s important to note that the effectiveness of these ingredients largely depends on their concentration in the product. While ingredient lists are in weight order, they don’t reveal the exact percentages of each ingredient. Therefore, even though an ingredient is listed, it doesn’t necessarily mean it’s present in an effective quantity. This is something to be mindful of when purchasing skincare products.

Remember, a good rule of thumb is to be skeptical of products that make grandiose claims. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Always do your research and look for evidence-based information to support the claims made by a product. Additionally, be wary of products that list their most touted ingredients towards the end of the ingredient list, as this could indicate a lower concentration.

This product review has been commissioned by Truth In Skincare (TiS), an independent industry regulator. The review is conducted by a TiS-appointed industry consultant, who utilizes a variety of reliable sources to ensure the accuracy and comprehensiveness of the information provided. These sources include CosIng (Cosmetic Ingredient Database – by the European Commission), the Personal Care Products Council (PCPC), and The US Food & Drug Administration (FDA). Additionally, various publicly available sources are also consulted to provide a well-rounded perspective on the product under review.