What is it?
Coenzyme Q10, also called CoQ10 or ubiquinone, is a natural compound found within every cell. Considered an antioxidant, CoQ10 serves multiple functions. It generates energy within a cell structure called the mitochondria, explains the University of Maryland Medical Center. CoQ10 helps produce adenosine triphosophate (ATP), which is needed to fuel cell processes.
It’s believed that CoQ10 is a potent free radical scavenger. As we age, our bodies produce less CoQ10, which may make our skin more susceptible to free radical damage. With lower levels of CoQ10, skin has a tougher time renewing itself. Applying topical products with CoQ10 may help rejuvenate the skin.
Currently, CoQ10 is also used in treating many health conditions, including: congestive heart failure, diabetes, gum disease, breast cancer, immune system deficiencies, schizophrenia and Alzheimer's disease.
Skin benefits
With continued use, CoQ10 can aid your complexion in various ways. It fights free radicals and improves the look of wrinkles. Be patient, though: You may need six weeks or more to see results, notes G Todorov, Ph.D., of Smart Skin Care. In particular, CoQ10 may:
- Defend against free radicals. These harmful molecules result from UV rays, smoke, pollution and other environmental sources. They cause signs of aging, and “alter cell membranes, tamper with DNA and even cause cell death,” according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Free radicals are also linked to cancer. Because CoQ10 penetrates the skin, it can provide free radical and UV protection, writes physician Judith Reichman, M.D., in Slow Your Clock Down: A Woman’s Complete Guide to a Younger, Healthier You.
- Reduce wrinkles. Researchers have determined that CoQ10 affects collagen and elastin, natural components that keep skin smooth and wrinkle-free. One German study “found that using a topical CoQ10 for 6 weeks daily reduced the wrinkle depth of crow’s feet by 27 percent, and after 10 weeks, by 43 percent,” write Deborah Mitchell and Roberta D. Sengelmann in The Botox Miracle.
You’ll find it in
CoQ10 is found in face and eye creams, anti-aging serums, lip treatments, night creams, as well as body products, like creams, scrubs and shower gels. However, there’s debate over whether CoQ10 concentrations in these products are high enough to be effective. Like other antioxidants, CoQ10 also breaks down and becomes ineffective when exposed to air or light.
Additionally, CoQ10 can be taken orally, and is often found in multi-vitamin, multi-mineral supplements. On Yahoo! Health, dermatologist Leslie Baumann, M.D., advises taking 100 to 200 milligrams in the morning, especially if you’re over age 50.
Product picks
You have many options for products with CoQ10.
Who should avoid it
Generally, CoQ10 is considered safe for all skin types. However, if you have a specific sensitivity to this ingredient, avoid products with ubiquinone or its synthetic cousin, idebenone.
Also, if you take certain medications, CoQ10 may not be safe for you. It could interact with chemotherapy treatment, blood pressure medications, cholesterol drugs or blood thinners. Check with your doctor before using any products or supplements with CoQ10.
Learn everything you need to know about anti-aging skincare in our Anti-Aging Handbook.