Yet, many people are unaware of how this nutrient exactly works, and why it’s so important. Here’s our deep dive into the powerful properties of coenzyme Q10. Your cells need CoQ10 to produce energy1. Specifically, it’s used in the mitochondria, or the “powerhouse” of the cell. Here, electrons move along chemical pathways to make energy. CoQ10 transports electrons in these pathways, making it an essential player in the game. The energy produced by these pathways is then used for normal cellular functions, including those involved in skin health. CoQ10 is also a potent antioxidant. Furthermore, it’s the only fat-soluble antioxidant2 naturally made by the human body. But your levels drop as you get older. And while it’s found in some foods—like fish, peanuts, and broccoli—it’s difficult to get enough through the diet. Only about 25% of your CoQ10 levels3 come from food intake. Fortunately, taking CoQ10 supplements can help support your natural levels. This is especially important if you’re looking to fine-tune your beauty routine and improve your skin from the inside out. Besides, there’s a reason this superstar ingredient has become increasingly popular in the wellness world. With growing awareness of internal skin health, more and more people are paying attention to the impact of cellular beauty. Enter the almighty CoQ10. Like other antioxidants, it neutralizes free radicals by generously donating an electron. It also protects against lipid peroxidation5, a process by which free radicals damage cell membranes. To top it off, CoQ10 protects the membranes of mitochondria and regenerates other antioxidants, like vitamins C and E—both of which are just as important for healthy skin. Normally, your skin uses antioxidants—like CoQ10—to defend itself from UV radiation. But as your levels decrease over time, replenishing them is key. Research6 has found that topical CoQ10 can significantly decrease facial wrinkles. Similarly, another study7 found that CoQ10 supplements reduce wrinkles and lines while enhancing skin smoothness. To support your skin cells’ energy needs, fuel up on CoQ10. For starters, this gives mitochondria the tools they need to energize cells and repair damage due to stress, notes Mark. Secondly, as an antioxidant, it safeguards energy pathways by combating free radicals. How’s that for double duty? On the flip side, “[Reducing] oxidative stress can accelerate wound healing,” notes King—and there’s some evidence that CoQ10 can do just that. In an animal study8, topical CoQ10 facilitated collagen formation and reduced inflammation during healing. “It does this by inhibiting enzymes that damage collagen via oxidative stress, [which] tilts the soft tissue in favor of collagen formation,” says Mark. Another animal study9 found similar results, observing a link between faster wound healing and CoQ10 application. And though more human studies are necessary, CoQ10 is anecdotally reported to be a stellar treatment for wound management. If you’re interested in taking CoQ10 supplements, look for a product that has been tested for purity and composition. This is usually indicated by a seal of approval on the packaging. You can also ask your primary care physician or dermatologist for a personal recommendation.
