ABSTRACT
Copper (Cu) is an essential trace mineral/element that plays an important role in critical physiological and cellular processes in the human body. When used in treatments for wounds and burns, it may accelerate healing and prevent infection by anti-microbial properties and regulate mediators of wound healing such as angiogenesis and extracellular matrix remodeling. It exerts many anti-aging properties and when used topically may improve the appearance of wrinkles by reducing the depth of facial wrinkles, improve skin sagging, and enhance skin elasticity. It may possess anti-inflammatory effects in inflammatory skin conditions by exerting regulatory T-cell effects. Therapies targeting elevated copper levels may be used to treat specific cancers, including BRAFV600-mutated melanoma and squamous cell carcinoma. Copper-based therapies hold great promise in treating myriad skin diseases and accelerating wound repair/healing.
