# The Ordinary Multi-Peptide + Copper Peptides 1% Serum for skin with dark spots

**Lovi Fit: Average fit for skin with dark spots.**
Normal Skin Fit: High · Effectiveness: Average · Safety: High.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/the-ordinary/multi-peptide-copper-peptides-1-serum/for/dark-spots

The Lovi Fit is the same in every country; only the stores and prices differ, and the ones here are for Germany.

Brand: [The Ordinary](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/brands/the-ordinary)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/best/serums)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with dark spots: hyperpigmentation, sun spots, and uneven skin tone. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

Works for skin with dark spots; other serums fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers excellent skin treatment for normal skin due to the presence of multiple peptides like Copper Tripeptide-1 and Acetyl Hexapeptide-8, which stimulate collagen and boost ECM synthesis for plumping and minimizing fine lines.
- While Glycerin and Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer provide hydration and skin barrier support, these benefits are mostly supportive and do not directly address your main goal of pigmentation.
- The product is safe for your normal skin with no risks of irritation due to the absence of prohibited or harsh ingredients.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/the-ordinary/multi-peptide-copper-peptides-1-serum/for/oily-skin): Average
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/the-ordinary/multi-peptide-copper-peptides-1-serum/for/dry-skin): High
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/the-ordinary/multi-peptide-copper-peptides-1-serum/for/combination-skin): High
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/the-ordinary/multi-peptide-copper-peptides-1-serum/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/the-ordinary/multi-peptide-copper-peptides-1-serum/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/the-ordinary/multi-peptide-copper-peptides-1-serum/for/dark-spots): Average (this page)
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/the-ordinary/multi-peptide-copper-peptides-1-serum/for/mature-skin): High
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/the-ordinary/multi-peptide-copper-peptides-1-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin): High
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/the-ordinary/multi-peptide-copper-peptides-1-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average

## Key ingredients

Copper Tripeptide-1, Acetyl Hexapeptide-8, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Sodium Hyaluronate, Lactococcus Lysate Ferment

## What the research says

- Argireline treatment twice daily for 4 weeks produced a significant anti-wrinkle effect with 48.9% total efficacy and decreased skin roughness in Chinese subjects compared with 0% efficacy and no decrease in roughness in the placebo group. ([American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2013](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23417317/))
- Acetyl hexapeptide-3 and tripeptide-10 citrulline demonstrated antiwrinkle efficacy and decreased transepidermal water loss in twenty-four healthy volunteers compared to control groups, though synergistic effects between the two peptides remained unclear. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28150423/))
- Argireline applied twice daily for 4 weeks achieved a total anti-wrinkle efficiency of 48.9% and notably reduced wrinkle depth compared to placebo in Chinese subjects. ([Journal of Cosmetic and Laser Therapy, 2013](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23607739/))
- A single application of a moisturizing fluid containing hyaluronic acid 1%, glycerin 5%, and Centella asiatica stem cells extract significantly increased skin hydration by 29% and reduced transepidermal water loss at 24 hours compared to baseline and an untreated control site in twenty healthy women. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/))
- Topical copper tripeptide complex on CO2 laser-resurfaced skin caused no significant reduction in erythema or objective improvement in wrinkles compared to controls, but significantly increased patient satisfaction regarding overall skin quality. ([Archives of Facial Plastic Surgery, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16847171/))
- A novel regimen combining a hydroxy acid-based scrub and copper tripeptide serum significantly reduced adherent scalp flaking by 61.24%, increased hair density by 12.48%, increased hair thickness by 25.36%, and improved scalp skin hydration by 76.24% in adults with mild to moderate dandruff over 15 days. ([Cureus, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39449909/))
- The combination of Thermus thermophilus and Bacillus subtilis mixed-culture ferment extract and copper tripeptide-1 GHK-Cu reduced inflammatory cytokines, protected skin explants from UV-induced damage, and improved wrinkles and skin barrier conditions compared to individual components or controls. ([Skin Research and Technology, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42573538/))
- Treatment with cross-linked hyaluronic acid-based microneedle patches combined with acetyl hexapeptide-8 or epidermal growth factor significantly improved wrinkles and skin hydration compared to the patch alone in Korean females over 29 days. ([Annals of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33911590/))
- Daily topical acetyl hexapeptide-8 showed a trend toward a longer time until return to baseline Jankovic Blepharospasm Rating Scale scores compared to placebo (3.7 months vs. 3.0 months) in 24 patients with blepharospasm receiving botulinum toxin therapy. ([European Journal of Neurology, 2013](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23146065/))
- Dissolving microneedles loaded with 3-O-ethyl ascorbic acid and acetyl hexapeptide-8 achieved higher cumulative transdermal delivery than aqueous solutions and significantly reduced photoaging signs while restoring oxidative balance in a UV/D-galactose-induced mouse model. ([International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41628877/))
- A multi-modal methodology combining MALDI-MSI, in vivo RCM, echography, and histology revealed age-related decreases in extracellular matrix and epidermal-dermal junction proteins and undulation depth, while a blend of palmitoyl oligopeptide and palmitoyl tetrapeptide-7 improved subepidermal low-echogenic band thickness, density, and extracellular matrix structure compared to placebo. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25817264/))
- Chronomodulated daytime application of baicalin and nighttime application of palmitoyl tripeptide-1 synergistically improved skin luminance by 16.29%, nasolabial fold depth by -36.35%, and firmness by 24.35% in 30 female participants. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41527525/))
- Palmitoyl tetrapeptide-7, acetyl hexapeptide-8, palmitoyl tripeptide-1, and palmitoyl tetrapeptide-10 significantly increased type III collagen levels in human dermal fibroblasts following UV exposure, with their combination demonstrating a greater effect in vitro and enhancing type I, III, and IV collagen levels in ex vivo skin tissues compared to individual components. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42683869/))
- Topical application of 0.1% hyaluronic acid formulations of different molecular weights led to significant improvements in skin hydration and elasticity, with low-molecular-weight formulations also significantly reducing wrinkle depth in seventy-six female subjects compared to a vehicle control. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2011](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22052267/))
- Topical application of hyaluronic acid in conjunction with free gingival graft significantly reduced donor site postoperative pain until day 7 compared to normal saline, with no significant differences in graft dimensions or patient satisfaction. ([Clinical Oral Investigations, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34623507/))
- Treatment with a hyaluronic acid-containing mouth rinse or topical gel led to significant lesion reduction, pain relief, and normalization of lesion color in adult patients with minor recurrent aphthous stomatitis, with the gel formulation showing an earlier healing onset at 3 days. ([BMC Oral Health, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31311529/))

## Why other serums fit skin with dark spots better

- Niacinamide significantly decreased hyperpigmentation and increased skin lightness compared with vehicle alone after 4 weeks of use in women by inhibiting melanosome transfer. ([The British Journal of Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12100180/))
- Treatment with 14% ferulic acid and 12% l-ascorbic acid significantly reduced pigmentation and erythema while improving hydration and elasticity in 20 women with photoaged skin, with neither acid proving definitively more effective overall though ascorbic acid showed slightly greater skin lightening. ([Dermatologic Therapy, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34877760/))

## What reviewers say

A notable number of reviews mention a metallic scent and some users report experiencing irritation or stickiness, particularly those with sensitive skin.

- Liked: Improves firmness (often mentioned)
- Liked: Lightweight absorption (often mentioned)
- Liked: Smooths texture (often mentioned)
- Disliked: Unpleasant scent (often mentioned)
- Liked: Accelerates healing (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Value for money (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Initial stickiness (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Product conflicts (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Pricey for brand (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Skin irritation (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Apply this serum as part of your PM routine starting 3x/week and build up to daily use if your skin likes it.
- Place the serum after cleansing and toning, but before your moisturizer.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the serum into your skin and wait a minute for it to absorb.
- Apply the serum on dry skin to help fade pigmentation effectively.
- Avoid the eye area and always use SPF 30+ during the day.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c879dda8655a61c19d3d8c9ebad6b06d.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does The Ordinary Multi-Peptide + Copper Peptides 1% Serum work for skin with dark spots?

This serum works for skin with dark spots, though other products fit your skin better. While it offers great hydration and plumping benefits, it lacks direct ingredients for pigmentation, and this skin needs a product with effective antioxidants and soothing ingredients that target dark spots without irritation.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### Which ingredients make this serum a good fit for skin with dark spots?

This serum is an average fit for skin with dark spots because its peptides mainly help plump and smooth skin rather than target pigmentation directly. To better fit this skin, a product of this type needs effective antioxidants and soothing ingredients that fade dark spots without causing irritation.

### What does Copper Tripeptide-1 do for skin with dark spots?

Copper Tripeptide-1 helps calm irritation and protects skin from UV-related damage that can lead to dark spots. When paired with specific ferment extracts, it helps improve overall tone and strengthens the skin barrier.
Sources: [Skin Research and Technology, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42573538/)

### What does Argireline do for skin with dark spots?

Argireline is not known to do anything for dark spots on the skin. It is used to help smooth lines and reduce skin roughness by targeting facial wrinkles.

### Where does this serum go in a skincare routine for skin with dark spots?

This treatment serum goes in the evening routine after cleansing and before moisturizing, following a safe profile for your skin. While it provides good hydration and peptides, dark spots need a product with targeted brightening ingredients like vitamin C or niacinamide.

### Can I use this serum with retinol, and in what order?

You can use this serum with retinol by applying the serum first and following it with your retinol. Because this product is gentle and lacks harsh ingredients, it is unlikely to irritate your skin when paired this way.

### How often should I use this serum?

This serum works well in the evening routine. Skin with dark spots needs dedicated ingredients like brightening agents or targeted tyrosinase inhibitors.

### Can this serum clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for skin with dark spots?

This serum is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts on skin with dark spots because it is free of harsh ingredients that usually trigger irritation. However, since it focuses mainly on firming rather than dark spots, skin with dark spots needs a treatment containing brightening ingredients like vitamin C, niacinamide, or alpha arbutin.

### Is this serum fragrance-free and alcohol-free?

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for skin with dark spots

- [Paula's Choice RESIST Super Antioxidant Concentrate Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/paula-s-choice/resist-super-antioxidant-concentrate-serum/for/dark-spots) — Superior fit — €57.00 at Amazon
- [Beauty of Joseon Propolis + Niacinamide Glow Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/beauty-of-joseon/propolis-niacinamide-glow-serum/for/dark-spots) — High fit — €9.99 at Amazon
- [Guerlain Abeille Royale Double R Renew & Repair Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/guerlain/abeille-royale-double-r-renew-and-repair-advanced-serum/for/dark-spots) — High fit — €122.90 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/dark-spots) — Superior fit — €11.75 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Pyunkang Yul Calming Deep Moisture Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/pyunkang-yul/calming-deep-moisture-toner/for/dark-spots) — Superior fit — €11.30 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [Isntree Green Tea Fresh Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/isntree/green-tea-fresh-serum/for/dark-spots) — Superior fit — €12.56 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.de: €27.95 (https://www.amazon.de/dp/B0C9DXGXZ3?tag=lovi-care-web-product05-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- Notino: €33.50 (https://www.notino.de/the-ordinary/multi-peptide-copper-peptides-1-aufhellendes-anti-falten-serum/p-16193594/)
Prices checked 15 Oct – 6 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Glycerin, Lactococcus Lysate Ferment, Copper Tripeptide-1, Acetyl Hexapeptide-8, Pentapeptide-18, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-38, Dipeptide Diaminobutyroyl Benzylamide Diacetate, Acetylarginyltryptophyl Diphenylglycine, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Sodium Hyaluronate, Allantoin, Glycine, Alanine, Serine, Valine, Isoleucine, Proline, Threonine, Histidine, Phenylalanine, Arginine, Aspartic Acid, Trehalose, Fructose, Glucose, Maltose, Urea, Sodium Pca, Pca, Sodium Lactate, Citric Acid, Hydroxypropyl Cyclodextrin, Sodium Chloride, Sodium Hydroxide, Butylene Glycol, Pentylene Glycol, Acacia Senegal Gum, Xanthan Gum, Carbomer, Polysorbate 20, Dimethyl Isosorbide, Sodium Benzoate, Caprylyl Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Phenoxyethanol, Chlorphenesin
## About the Lovi Fit

Lovi: Unbiased, science-based skincare AI trained on real user outcomes.

Lovi calculates every fit score from the full ingredient list with brand-independent rules its dermatologists and cosmetic chemists build and review, and personalizes every pick with AI trained on the real results of millions of users. Lovi trains its fit score models on a proprietary dataset built from more than 10,000 expert-labeled products and more than 100,000 simulated examples, following an internally consistent methodology presented at Cosmoprof, AMWC, and Skin of Color Update. Levels from best to worst: Superior, High, Average, Low, Caution, Warning.

Behind this fit score: Nadia Kapleva, MS (Co-founder, Medical Director); Alexey Shagraev, PhD (Co-founder, CEO and CTO); Dr. Sofía Perea Pérez, MD, MSc (Medical Board); Aishani Shah, MD (Medical Board); Asya Zubkova, MS (Medical Board); Hanna Kurets, MD (Medical Board, Medical Advisor); Elina Nazarenko, MD (Medical Board); Victoria Derkova, MS (Medical Board).

Page built Nov 8, 2026.

More from Lovi: https://lovi.care/skincare/llms.txt

## This page in other countries

- United States: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/the-ordinary/multi-peptide-copper-peptides-1-serum/for/dark-spots
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/the-ordinary/multi-peptide-copper-peptides-1-serum/for/dark-spots
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/the-ordinary/multi-peptide-copper-peptides-1-serum/for/dark-spots
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/the-ordinary/multi-peptide-copper-peptides-1-serum/for/dark-spots (this page)
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/the-ordinary/multi-peptide-copper-peptides-1-serum/for/dark-spots
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/the-ordinary/multi-peptide-copper-peptides-1-serum/for/dark-spots
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/the-ordinary/multi-peptide-copper-peptides-1-serum/for/dark-spots
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/the-ordinary/multi-peptide-copper-peptides-1-serum/for/dark-spots
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/the-ordinary/multi-peptide-copper-peptides-1-serum/for/dark-spots
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/the-ordinary/multi-peptide-copper-peptides-1-serum/for/dark-spots
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/the-ordinary/multi-peptide-copper-peptides-1-serum/for/dark-spots
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/the-ordinary/multi-peptide-copper-peptides-1-serum/for/dark-spots
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/the-ordinary/multi-peptide-copper-peptides-1-serum/for/dark-spots