Coenzyme Q10, CoQ10 for short, is an anti-aging ingredient that burst on to the beauty scene a few years ago. Recently it’s been overshadowed by fellow antioxidant mega star, Vitamin C. That’s not to say it’s been supplanted, CoQ10 is an excellent protector of the skin, and the unsung hero when it comes to layering with other skincare products. With so many beauty benefits for all skin types and ages, it’s no wonder Coenzyme Q10 is the favorite serum of Timeless CEO and founder, Veronica Pedersen!
What is Coenzyme Q10?
Also known as Ubiquinone, CoQ10 is a naturally occurring antioxidant found within all cells in the body. It is vital in the maintenance and energy production of cells. As we age, we produce fewer antioxidants, including CoQ10. As these levels diminish, free radicals cause more cellular damage, affecting collagen and elastin in the skin. The good news is that using ubiquinone topically can penetrate deeply into the skin, replenishing our natural levels. Applying CoQ10 has been shown to metabolically transform the skin with its antioxidant effects and support of cell energy levels.
Benefits of Coenzyme Q10
- Fights and Protects against Sun Damage: neutralizes free radicals generated by sun exposure and pollution, helping to protect the skin from the breakdown of collagen.
- Keeps Skin Healthy: provides energy to repair damage to cells and help rid them of toxins.
- Smooths and Lifts Skin: helps the body produce more collagen and elastin, helping to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
- Evens Skin Tone: has been shown to block an enzyme called tyrosinase which is necessary for creating pigment, helping to fade and prevent dark spots.
Be careful if you have vitiligo – a condition caused by the lack of pigment aka melanin in the skin that results in white patches on your skin or hair. Applying CoQ10 topically could increase depigmentation for those suffering from vitiligo.
How to use Coenzyme Q10
Aging and stress slow down the production of CoQ10 in our bodies, so any age and skin type can benefit from using CoQ10.
Coenzyme Q10 ingredient is naturally a yellow color and very stable, unlike L-Ascorbic Acid, which turns from clear to yellow when it starts to oxidize. CoQ10 layers effortlessly with other key skincare ingredients, such as Hyaluronic Acid, Vitamin C and Peptides, such as Matrixyl 3000™ and Matrixyl Synthe 6®.
There are no known ingredients to avoid with CoQ10 and it is found in many eye creams, toners, moisturizers and serums.
CoQ10 can be used morning and night, as well as before and after sun exposure.
Timeless Esthetician and Product Knowledge Specialist, Shelly Leggins recommends the following tips for using Timeless’ Coenzyme Q10 serum.“As a heavier weight consistency serum, apply the Coenzyme Q10 Serum, AFTER lighter weight serum(s) but BEFORE your finishing products ie; moisturizer with SPF.”
DISCLAIMER: The information on our blogs has been compiled from published sources and the experience of the Timeless Skin Care team. The blogs are not intended to diagnose or treat a medical condition or to address every skin type or condition. While reasonable effort is made to publish reliable and up to date information, Timeless Skin Care cannot predict how a skin care regimen will affect every individual user. Timeless does not guarantee any specific outcomes or the accuracy of all information presented and accepts no liability in respect of any omission or error. If you are uncertain about possible sensitivity when using Timeless Skin Care products, please do a patch test before use. If you have any skin concerns, please talk to your physician or consult a dermatologist.