The effects of coenzyme q10 on skin are generally on the positive side, such as reducing the appearance of wrinkles and keeping the skin moist and younger-looking. It can also lighten dark or red spots caused by acne, overexposure to the sun, or aging. Many people also apply coenzyme q10 onto the skin to decrease and prevent cellulites.
Coenzyme q10, or ubiquinone is a chemical substance naturally produced by the cells, particularly in the mitochondria, which is the cell’s “powerhouse.” In this way, the substance hugely contributes to the production of energy for the entire body, especially in vital organs like the kidney and the heart. In fact, 95% of the energy the human body needs is supplied by coenzyme q10. Scientific analysis has also shown the substance acts like an antioxidant by preventing oxidative stress from damaging the cells. As the body ages, however, it gradually produces less ubiquinone and can be manifested on the skin through blemishes and imperfections.
Many people, especially women, have observed that their facial wrinkles and lines somehow diminished after applying coenzyme q10 on skin for a period of time. As a person gets older, cell regeneration slows down and skin cells are not replaced with new ones as often because the decreased production of ubiquinone results in a lack of energy. This can cause wrinkles and dull skin, but applying products that contain coenzyme q10 may help speed up the regeneration process and refresh the skin with new skin cells.
Another effect of coenzyme q10 on skin is increased suppleness and moisture. Older skin has less ability to retain moisture and keep hydrated, so the skin somehow becomes “deflated” and further enhances fine lines. Less production of ubiquinone is also related to less production of collagen and elastin, substances that makes skin soft and elastic. The supplementation of coenzyme q10 will encourage the skin to produce more collagen and elastin, thus moisturizing the skin and making it softer.
Age spot reduction is another effect of coenzyme q10 on skin, and is often experienced with the decrease of wrinkles, due to the faster cell regeneration. Ubiquinone also helps the body absorb vitamins C and E, both of which help with renewal of skin cells and lightening of dark spots. Coenzyme q10’s ability to supply energy helps quicken the body’s metabolism, so it is often included in anti-cellulite creams often applied on the legs and buttocks, areas that often contain the most fat in women. The substance’s ability to reduce skin inflammation may also contribute to its anti-cellulite effect.