CoQ10
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is a powerful antioxidant naturally found in the body, playing a crucial role in cellular energy production and skin protection. Also known as ubiquinone, CoQ10 helps generate energy in the mitochondria of skin cells, supporting repair, regeneration, and overall skin vitality. As we age, natural levels of CoQ10 decline, leading to decreased collagen and elastin production, which contributes to fine lines, wrinkles, and loss of firmness.
One of CoQ10’s primary benefits is its ability to neutralize free radicals, shielding the skin from oxidative stress caused by UV exposure, pollution, and environmental aggressors. This antioxidant defense helps prevent premature aging, reduce dullness, and maintain a youthful complexion. Additionally, CoQ10 supports collagen and elastin synthesis, improving skin elasticity and reducing the appearance of fine lines over time.
Beyond its anti-aging effects, CoQ10 also helps even out skin tone and fade hyperpigmentation by inhibiting tyrosinase, an enzyme involved in melanin production. This makes it particularly beneficial for those dealing with dark spots, sun damage, and uneven skin texture. Its ability to energize skin cells also enhances overall skin function, leading to a brighter, firmer, and more resilient appearance.
CoQ10 is commonly found in serums, moisturizers, and eye creams, where it is often paired with other antioxidants such as vitamin C, vitamin E, and niacinamide to enhance its protective and rejuvenating effects. Since it is fat-soluble, CoQ10 is best absorbed in oil-based formulations, ensuring deeper penetration into the skin.
Regular use of CoQ10 in skincare can help boost skin repair, improve hydration, and combat visible signs of aging, making it a highly effective ingredient for maintaining youthful, healthy-looking skin.
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10 /ˌkoʊkjuːˈtɛn/), also known as ubiquinone, is a naturally occurring biochemical cofactor (coenzyme) and an antioxidant produced by the human body. It can also be obtained from dietary sources, such as meat, fish, seed oils, vegetables, and dietary supplements. CoQ10 is found in many organisms, including animals and bacteria.
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| Preferred IUPAC name
2-[(2E,6E,10E,14E,18E,22E,26E,30E,34E)-3,7,11,15,19,23,27,31,35,39-Decamethyltetraconta-2,6,10,14,18,22,26,30,34,38-decaen-1-yl]-5,6-dimethoxy-3-methylcyclohexa-2,5-diene-1,4-dione | |
Other names
Q10, CoQ10 /ˌkoʊˌkjuːˈtɛn/ | |
| Identifiers | |
3D model (JSmol)
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| ChEBI | |
| ChEMBL | |
| ChemSpider | |
| ECHA InfoCard | 100.005.590 |
| KEGG | |
PubChem CID
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| UNII | |
CompTox Dashboard (EPA)
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| Properties | |
| C59H90O4 | |
| Molar mass | 863.365 g·mol−1 |
| Appearance | yellow or orange solid |
| Melting point | 48–52 °C (118–126 °F; 321–325 K) |
| insoluble | |
| Pharmacology | |
| C01EB09 (WHO) | |
| Related compounds | |
Related quinones
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1,4-Benzoquinone Plastoquinone Ubiquinol |
Except where otherwise noted, data are given for materials in their standard state (at 25 °C [77 °F], 100 kPa).
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CoQ10 plays a role in mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation, aiding in the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which is involved in energy transfer within cells. The structure of CoQ10 consists of a benzoquinone moiety and an isoprenoid side chain, with the "10" referring to the number of isoprenyl chemical subunits in its tail.
Although a ubiquitous molecule in human tissues, CoQ10 is not a dietary nutrient and does not have a recommended intake level, and its use as a supplement is not approved in the United States for any health or anti-disease effect.