While it’s hard to pronounce, those who have their heads in the skincare game may have heard CoQ10 being tied up to skin care. That’s because it can enhance one’s beauty routine.
Read on to learn more about CoQ10- how it enhances one’s beauty routine, what benefits it offers, how it’s used, and answers to commonly asked questions.
Overview
CoQ10, short for Coenzyme Q10, is a compound that the body produces naturally. It aids in generating energy in the cells and provides heart benefits; that’s why a deficiency of this compound can have unpleasant effects. The body’s production of this compound doesn’t get better with age, but certain foods and supplements may help boost the body.
This little powerhouse is not only a naturally-occurring compound in humans, but it can also be found in animals, fruits, vegetables, legumes and some oils. It’s responsible for an array of essential jobs, but it’s mainly responsible for giving the body an energy boost and protecting cells from damage. The protection extends to the skin, which is prone to damage from harmful UV rays, pollution, etc.
CoQ10 is extracted from horses’ tissues, but nowadays, scientists mostly derive it from fermented natural yeast. This is a much more suitable option, especially for animal lovers out there. The compound is then isolated before being added to supplements, vitamins, and beauty products.
Like the well-loved vitamin C that promotes collagen production, CoQ10 helps fend off the signs of ageing so that you can maintain firm, youthful skin.
Benefits of CoQ10
Although you’re probably getting more of this compound in your fruits and vegetables, there’s no guarantee that it’s going straight to your skin. The most direct way to get the benefits is to use serums, moisturizers, and toners.
Here are reasons why you should add CoQ10 to your skincare routine:
Gives the skin ample protection from environmental aggressors.
Dirt, makeup, and outdoor elements can be harmful to your skin’s health. It can be hard to avoid these things, especially makeup because it helps build up the self-esteem and confidence in most people. However, to avoid hurting your skin, it’s crucial to use products containing CoQ10. This nifty little compound has antioxidant properties, giving maximum protection, refining the pores, and plumping the skin.
Promotes even skin tone.
Are you tired of the patches or blotches of hyperpigmentation in your skin, let alone red streaks across your forehead? If so, you need that one ingredient in your skincare products that’s best for uneven skin tone- CoQ10. It helps brighten your skin and provides a more even complexion by getting in the way of some of the processes that cause uneven skin tone.
Minimizes the appearance of under-eye circles.
CoQ10 does an excellent job at plumping and providing hydration to your under-eye area. As a result, fine lines are smoothed out while overall redness is reduced. It also works effectively in alleviating discolouration associated with under-eye circles.
Reduces the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.
The body’s production of collagen depletes over time, resulting in wrinkles and fine lines. What’s more, the skin’s exposure to damaging agents only contributes to ageing. Applying CoQ10 directly to the skin boosts collagen production and decreases the depth of wrinkles.
Aids in moisture retention.
By helping the skin get rid of impurities and debris, CoQ10 helps your skin retain moisture and absorb lotions better.
Prevents future damage.
Because the compound firms up fine lines, your skin gets healthier and resistant to environmental aggressors.
Suits daily application.
There’s no reason why you can’t apply CoQ10 to your skin every day. Most users incorporate it into their morning and nighttime skincare routines.
Works for all ages.
CoQ10 is great for users of all ages. It provides excellent antioxidant protection to areas of the skin that need the most protection. Also, it counteracts age-related damage, so it’s suitable for both old and young users.
Suits all skin types.
Most people can use CoQ10 on their skin for an extended period without experiencing ill effects. It is rare for those with very sensitive skin to experience adverse reactions after applying CoQ10 to their skin. This may be because CoQ10 naturally occurs in the body, so it doesn’t shock the skin.
CoQ10 is safe for dry skin types because of its gentle effect. It helps the skin develop resilience and retain moisture, allowing it to stay soft.
If you have oily skin, fret not because CoQ10 revitalizes even the most prone to clogs and eliminates the icky stuff.
Plays nicely with other ingredients.
It is safe to mix CoQ10 with ingredients like glycolic acid, hyaluronic acid, retinol, and vitamin C. This is thanks to the compound’s fat-soluble nature.
How to Use CoQ10
CoQ10 is best used in cleansers, toners, serums, moisturizers, lotions, sunscreens, and other products. To reap its skincare benefits, it is best to follow the tried-and-true process for applying it:
Always start things off with a thorough cleansing. Cleanse your face and neck well using a natural cleanser.
Apply toner on your face and give it a few minutes to dry.
Put a few drops of your serum of choice and wait for it to absorb. While waiting, apply lotion to the rest of your body.
Massage some moisturizer to your face and neck. Allow it to absorb.
Slather on that sunscreen so that your skin is safe from the harmful UV rays.
CoQ10 and Skin Care: Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any negative reactions?
What’s great about CoQ10 is that it’s meant to suit any skin type, whether it be sensitive, dry, or oily/combination skin. This means that it offers maximum safety for its users. But to be sure, you should do a patch test beforehand to ensure that you’re not allergic to it.
Is CoQ10 vegan?
It is commonly derived from fermented yeast, but it can also come from various sources. So when you purchase products containing CoQ10, read the label to confirm whether or not all ingredients are vegan-friendly.
What is CoQ10 best for?
CoQ10, as an ingredient in cleansers, toners, serums, moisturizers, lotions, and sunscreens, is best used on the face, neck, and body to fight signs of ageing and provide youthful, flawless skin.
Can I take CoQ10 supplements and apply products containing CoQ10 to my skin at the same time?
As with anything, moderation is key. As long as you’re not going overboard, you should be fine.
Can I use CoQ10 during my pregnancy?
CoQ10 supplements are considered safe for pregnant women. But to be on the safe side, discuss things first with your OBGYN and check ingredients labels meticulously.
Is CoQ10 better than Vitamin C?
Both are best used together, like bacon and eggs. While each provides favourable benefits when used alone, pairing them can make each even more useful.
Who can’t use CoQ10?
While CoQ10 is meant to suit sensitive skin types, those with certain conditions should consult with their dermatologist. Even when the risk is low, it’s always better to be safe than sorry.