Research Summary
Ubiquinone (coenzyme Q10, Q10) is an endogenously synthesized lipid-soluble antioxidant that plays a crucial role in cellular energy production. However, its levels diminish with age and under the influence of external stress factors in human skin. This study demonstrates that topical Q10 treatment is beneficial for effective Q10 replenishment, augmentation of cellular energy metabolism, and antioxidant effects.
The application of Q10-containing formulas significantly increased the levels of this quinone on the skin surface. Notably, in the deeper layers of the epidermis, the ubiquinone level was significantly augmented, indicating effective supplementation. The concurrent elevation of ubiquinol levels suggested a metabolic transformation of ubiquinone, resulting from increased energy metabolism.
Additionally, incubation of cultured human keratinocytes with Q10 concentrations equivalent to those found in treated skin showed a significant augmentation of energy metabolism. The results further demonstrated that stressed skin benefits from topical Q10 treatment by reducing free radicals and increasing antioxidant capacity.
Keywords: coenzyme Q10, energy metabolism, mitochondrial activity, antioxidant, topical Q10 treatment, skin, skin aging
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