Coenzyme Q10 is a fat-soluble vitamin that also works as a coenzyme in your cells' production of energy. Although much of the vitamin is made naturally in the body, it can also be found in many foods, such as spinach, salmon and soybeans. As you grow older, the levels of coenzyme Q10 naturally begin to diminish from your skin cells. To combat this loss, the vitamin is commonly extracted from natural sources and used in anti-aging skin care products.
Free Radicals
According to the American Cancer Society, the antioxidants in coenzyme Q10 have the ability to block free radicals. Free radicals are molecules of oxygen that have only an unpaired electron, making them unstable. When activated, these molecules can cause skin damage, which results in skin aging. By introducing coenzyme Q10 to the skin through a topical product, the damage of these free radicals may be limited.
Collagen
One part of the skin that free radicals may affect is collagen. Collagen is a protein fiber that makes up much of the connective tissues in your body, including your bones and skin. As free radicals look for another electron to become balanced again, they may steal one from collagen. This causes a break in the structure of the collagen strand. Over time, this can result in the wearing down of collagen, resulting in droopy skin, fine lines and wrinkles.
Elastin
A free radical's search for an electron pair may also disturb the elastin in your skin. Elastin is a protein similar to collagen and gives your skin its ability to stretch and return back to its normal shape and tightness. When a free radical steals one of elastin's electrons, its structure is changed, causing it to break down. The loss of this elastin can contribute to loose skin and wrinkle formation.
Moisture
By preventing free radical damage, coenzyme Q10 can also help keep the skin moist. As free radicals break down the elastin and collagen in the skin, the skin layers become thinner. This allows more moisture to escape the skin. By preventing this breakdown, the skin layers stay thick, keeping the skin cells moist and healthy.
Member Comments