Copper

May 14, 2026 Ellie Morley

Ingredient Spotlight: Copper (as Copper Bisglycinate)

in Hair Strength & Structure Support

Hair strength, colour and structural integrity all rely on minerals that support the proteins and pigments within each strand - and copper is one of the most important. As a trace mineral involved in pigmentation, collagen cross‑linking and antioxidant defence, copper helps maintain the internal processes that contribute to strong, vibrant‑looking hair. In this spotlight, we explore what copper is, how it supports hair wellness, and the science behind its importance.

What Is Copper Bisglycinate?

Copper is an essential trace mineral required for melanin production, collagen formation, and antioxidant enzyme activity. Our formula uses copper bisglycinate, a chelated form where copper is bound to two glycine molecules. This form is known for being:

gentle on the stomach
highly bioavailable
well‑tolerated compared to inorganic forms

Because hair relies on both structural proteins and pigmentation pathways, copper plays a meaningful role in supporting the appearance and resilience of each strand.

How Copper Supports Hair Health

Copper contributes to hair wellness through several interconnected pathways:

Pigmentation support - copper is required for the enzyme tyrosinase, which helps produce melanin, the pigment that gives hair its natural colour.
Collagen cross‑linking - copper‑dependent enzymes help stabilise collagen and elastin, supporting the tissues around the follicle.
Antioxidant defence - copper is part of superoxide dismutase (SOD), a key antioxidant enzyme that protects cells from oxidative stress.
Structural integrity - by supporting connective tissues and keratin‑related pathways, copper contributes to strong, resilient hair.

Together, these functions help maintain the internal conditions needed for healthy‑looking, vibrant hair.

The Science in Simple Terms

Research into copper and hair health consistently highlights three themes:

1.) Copper & Hair Pigmentation

Copper is essential for tyrosinase, the enzyme that drives melanin production. Studies show that copper deficiency can lead to changes in pigmentation in both hair and skin. This is one of the clearest nutrient‑pigment relationships in hair biology.

2.) Antioxidant Enzymes (SOD)

Copper is a key component of superoxide dismutase (SOD), one of the body’s primary antioxidant enzymes. Because oxidative stress can influence follicle behaviour and scalp comfort, this pathway is an important area of study.

3.) Collagen and Connective Tissue Support

Copper‑dependent enzymes help cross‑link collagen and elastin. These proteins support the follicle’s structural environment, contributing to hair strength and resilience.

These scientific themes help explain why copper is frequently included in modern hair‑support formulas.

How Copper Complements This Category

Within the Hair Strength & Structure Support category, Copper works alongside:

Zinc - supports protein synthesis and keratin structure
Vitamin C - contributes to collagen formation and antioxidant protection
L‑Lysine HCl - supports collagen cross‑linking and keratin structure
Biotin - supports keratin production and metabolic activity
MSM - provides sulphur for strong keratin bonds

Copper brings pigmentation support, collagen stability, and antioxidant strength, rounding out the category’s focus on building strong, resilient, healthy‑looking hair.

Key Takeaways

Copper is essential for melanin production, collagen cross‑linking and antioxidant defence.
Copper deficiency is associated with pigmentation changes in hair and skin.
Copper bisglycinate is a gentle, bioavailable form ideal for supplementation.
Copper works synergistically with Zinc, Vitamin C, L‑Lysine, Biotin and MSM.