Why Your Skin is Running Out of CoQ10?

As we age, our skin’s natural defence system weakens and its energy production slows. One molecule at the centre of this process is Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), a fat‑soluble antioxidant found in every cell. It plays two crucial roles: neutralising free radicals generated by UV exposure, pollution and everyday metabolism, and supporting ATP production, the energy your cells need to repair and regenerate.

Research shows that CoQ10 levels decline progressively with age, particularly in the skin. Mitochondrial activity in the epidermis drops by around ten per cent per decade, reducing the skin’s capacity for repair. When CoQ10 is depleted, oxidative stress rises, collagen and elastin production falls, and inflammatory markers increase. The visible results are fine lines, loss of firmness, dullness and a weakened barrier.

What does CoQ10 do for your skin?

CoQ10 helps protect the lipids in the skin barrier from oxidative damage and inhibits enzymes that break down collagen. Clinical studies have demonstrated that topical CoQ10 can reduce wrinkle depth and improve smoothness. By supporting the barrier, it helps the skin retain moisture, resist irritants and maintain resilience against environmental stressors.

Where can you get CoQ10 from?

Your body produces CoQ10 naturally, but this declines with age. Dietary sources include oily fish, organ meats, nuts and seeds, yet the average intake provides only a small fraction of what is needed. Supplementation has been shown to improve elasticity and reduce wrinkles, with daily doses from 50 mg producing measurable benefits. Because CoQ10 is fat‑soluble, it is best absorbed when taken with food containing fat.

Why inside and out matters?

Topical application replenishes CoQ10 at the skin surface and supports mitochondrial function, but penetration into deeper dermal layers is limited. Oral supplementation complements this by delivering CoQ10 systemically, reaching areas that topicals alone cannot. That is why our Protect system combines both approaches: a serum containing ubiquinone to defend the skin surface, and a capsule providing 50 mg of CoQ10 daily to support cells from within. This dual‑delivery method ensures that CoQ10 is restored both inside and out, helping to maintain healthier, firmer and more resilient skin as the years go by.

Food supplements should not be used as a substitute for a varied and balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle.

Sonal Chavda‑Sitaram, PhD, MRPharmS
Founder, Complete by Dr SCS