Co-enzyme Q 10, also known as Ubiquinone or Ubiquinol is an endogenously synthesized lipid-soluble anti-oxidant. Co-enzyme Q 10 is essential for cellular energy production. Further, its decrease in this coenzyme can lead to various health problems such as Primary coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) deficiency, heart and liver problems, etc. Quinone levels found in human bodies reduce with age, however, this deficiency is manageable in earlier stages and can be cured through minor medical treatments. The deficiency of CoQ10 can be prevented by consuming recommended dosage of Co-Q10 supplements (90-600g, varies from individual to individual).
CO-ENZYME Q 10 AND SKIN
SKIN CONCERNS DUE TO LOSS OF CO-ENZYME Q10:
The human body produces Co-Q 10 at the cellular level and with increasing age or other external/internal factors. The decline of the endogenous Co Q10 leads to a decrease in energy production as well as mitochondrial activity. As a consequence, cell and tissue functions are impaired and visible structural alternations occur. These result in well-known signs of aging, for example, the appearance of wrinkles and lines as well as loss of elasticity [1]
However, in the skin, Q10 is not only found in living cells but also in the skin surface lipids (SSL), which are part of the stratum corneum, forming the outermost barrier of the skin. SSL is composed of a mixture of sebum secreted from sebaceous glands and lipids originating mainly from corneocytes. Due to their location on the skin surface SSL are constantly exposed to UV irradiation, air pollution, chemical oxidants, and microorganisms. SSL Q10 levels have been shown to decline with age and also decrease after UV exposure. [1]
BENEFITS OF TOPICAL CO Q10 TREATMENT FOR SKIN.
Topical Q10 treatment is beneficial with regard to effective Q10 replenishment, augmentation of cellular energy metabolism, and antioxidant effects, that is:
1.ENERGISES THE SKIN
The application of Q10‐containing formulas significantly improves the skin’s complexion. The topical application significantly increases the level of this co-enzyme in the first two layers of skin. This elevation of ubiquinol levels results in increased energy metabolism, which gives your skin a healthy and long-lasting glow.
2.INCREASES THE KERATIN CONCENTRATION
Q10 significantly stimulates the energy metabolism of human keratinocytes.
Keratinocytes are keratin-producing cells, which protect our skin against microbial infections (cystic acne, irritation, etc), water loss, and UV radiation.
3.IMPROVES ANTI-OXIDANT PROPERTIES OF STRESSED SKIN
Skin is constantly exposed to environmental stressors which are detrimental to our tissues. One of the effects caused by these environmental stressors is free radical damage. The ‘Free Radical Theory of Aging, postulates that aging is the result of cellular damage inflicted over time by free radicals. Co-enzyme Q 10, prevents this by energizing the cells and decreasing their chances of determination. With topical treatment, one can counter short-term environmental stress-induced as well as age-related Q10 deficits. Using Q10 containing formulas on a regular basis protects the outer layer of skin is favorable for all ages.
REFERENCES
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Knott, Anja et al. “Topical treatment with coenzyme Q10-containing formulas improves skin's Q10 level and provides antioxidative effects.” BioFactors (Oxford, England) vol. 41,6 (2015): 383-90. doi:10.1002/biof.1239
