Coenzyme Q10, also known as CoQ10 or ubiquinone, is a natural antioxidant in the body whose purpose is to combat damage from free radicals that contribute to aging. Ironically, as we age, the levels of Coenzyme Q10 start to drop in the body, leading to a decrease in the ability of cells to withstand stress and regenerate, although it's not yet known why this occurs. There haven't been many studies conducted on the long-term effects of topical coenzyme Q10 on the skin, but it does hold promise as another weapon in the war on fighting wrinkles and sun damage.
Skin Appearance
A report in the March 2006 issue of the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology showed that CoQ10 may reduce the appearance of wrinkles, and an earlier study in Germany in 1999 found that long-term use of CoQ10 reduced the wrinkles around the eyes known as crow's feet. Many cosmetics companies who include this ingredient in their products promise that it will improve the tone, texture and firmness of your skin, although the amount and quality of the CoQ10, as well as other ingredients that may help or hinder its effectiveness, vary widely from one product to another.
UVA Damage
The effects of the damaging rays of UVA and UVA radiation from the sun upon skin are well known, leading to wrinkles, brown spots and even cancer. Studies such as one reported in a 2005 issue of the Journal of Investigative Dermatology have shown that the sun depletes CoQ10 levels in the skin, whereas others, such as a 2006 report in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, indicate a topical application of CoQ10 can help replenish levels and guard against the ravages of this type of skin damage.
Anti-Inflammatory
There are indications that the combination of carotenoids, found in plants such as beta carotene, plus CoQ10, results in suppressing inflammation, as reported in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology. An even more recent study in the Archives of Pharmacal Research found that CoQ10 has both an anti-inflammatory and a wound-healing effect.
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