What is Coenzyme Q10?
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10 for short) is an enzyme that occurs naturally in all of our body cells. Also known as ubiquinone, it is essential for producing energy and is responsible for the basic functions of the skin – such as the growth, repair, and regeneration processes that keep our complexions radiant and glowing.
How does Coenzyme Q10 work?
Our skin is constantly exposed to various external factors, including oxidative stress caused by UV rays from the sun and environmental toxins. Internal processes can also cause the release of ‘free radicals’ which can cause further damage to our cells and accelerate the signs of ageing.
CoQ10 is a natural skincare superhero! Its powerful antioxidant action works to defend against the damaging effects of free radicals inside and outside our cells, as well as providing vital energy and protection to support healthy cellular function.
Skin benefits of Coenzyme Q10
1. Assists cellular repair & regeneration
Providing skin cells with the critical energy needed allows them to repair and regenerate, and carry out their basic functions. This fast rate of repair and regeneration allows skin to stay looking youthful and healthy.
More energised skin equals a more radiant complexion.
As skin ages, its natural CoQ10 levels begin to diminish, slowing down the rate of repair and regeneration. Skin can begin to look dull and tired. By adding CoQ10 products to your skincare routine you can help your skin to maintain a radiant complexion.
2. Supports the production of collagen
When collagen levels are high, the skin is soft, smooth, and firm. Collagen helps the skin cells renew and repair themselves. Both the levels and quality of collagen affect the skin. As a person ages, their body produces less collagen which can lead to:
- a loss of elasticity in the skin and other connective tissues
- lines, wrinkles, and reduced firmness of the skin
- joint stiffness
Collagen makes up almost 80% of our skin and almost a third of all proteins in our body. Coenzyme Q10 helps to support the production of collagen, which helps to increase cellular regeneration, strengthen bones, tendons and joints, protect delicate organs, and maintain skin elasticity.
3. Helps reduce the effects of sun damage
CoQ10’s powerful antioxidant action protects the skin at a molecular level against the damaging effects of free radicals due to UV exposure. In one study, human fibroblast cell samples were exposed to radiation in a laboratory setting. The results showed that when the cells were treated with CoQ10 they showed faster regeneration and better preservation of the mitochondrial membrane. Reducing sun damage helps to prevent sun-induced signs of ageing.
4. Helps reduce the appearance of fine lines & wrinkles.
CoQ10 supports the body’s ability to produce collagen and elastin – the proteins that maintain skin elasticity allowing the ‘bounce back’ after stretching or contracting. These proteins help to improve the skin’s structure and tone. With CoQ10 helping to support the production of collagen, it is a very effective and popular ingredient in anti-ageing skincare products, due to its ability to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
5. Helps prevent hyper-pigmentation
CoQ10 can help to prevent and fade hyperpigmentation and dark spots caused by excess melanin production. CoQ10 does this by helping to stop the production of tyrosinase – an enzyme needed to create the pigment.
6. Helps improve hydration
CoQ10 is fat-soluble, working best when combined in an oil-based formulation. This allows for more efficient absorption and improved skin hydration.
We chose to include CoQ10 as a key ingredient in our Super Boost Bakuchiol Serum because of its increased effectiveness when combined with natural oils. Our serum also contains the potent antioxidant Bakuchiol, a non-irritating, natural plant-based alternative to retinol (Vitamin A), proven to stimulate collagen production. Blended with some of the most nutrient-rich plant oils available, including oils of argan, squalane, hemp seed, kiwifruit, cacay seed, jojoba, and NZ Kānuka oil, our Super Boost Bakuchiol Serum will help to restore optimal skin health, hydration, resilience, and a youthful, radiant glow.
The Effects of Ageing on Coenzyme Q10
Unlike most vitamins, our body is able to naturally produce CoQ10 itself. When we are young our skin has a sufficient supply of CoQ10 and we are also able to absorb it through food such as nuts, meat, green vegetables, and cold-pressed vegetable oils. As we age, the natural level of CoQ10 in our skin decreases making our skin more prone to increased stress and damage and more susceptible to fine lines and wrinkles. Incorporating CoQ10-containing products into your skincare routine helps to replenish cells with the energy they need to maintain healthy function and keep our skin looking healthy and youthful.
Tips for using CoQ10 in your daily skincare care routine:
- Ensure your skin is clean and dry before applying using Scenturie’s Natural Creamy Cleanser and Replenishing Natural Toner.
- Apply 2-3 drops of CoQ10-enriched Super Boost Bakuchiol Serum to your face, neck, and décolletage. Always apply your serum before your moisturiser to ensure its formula can penetrate deeply and deliver maximum performance.
- Gently work the serum into your skin using the tips of your fingers to massage it all over your face.
- Follow with Scenturie’s award-winning Nourishing Natural Day Cream or Ultra-Rich Natural Night Cream, and an SPF for daytime use.
- Repeat morning and night to enjoy a healthy, hydrated, radiant complexion.
All Scenturie natural skincare products are made in New Zealand with premium, plant-based ingredients that are nutrient-rich, ethically sourced, and backed by science. We avoid synthetic chemicals, known irritants, and synthetic fragrances, inviting you to enjoy the subtle fragrance of unrefined plant oils and essential oils, the way nature intended them to smell. All our products are 100% vegan and cruelty-free.
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