Aged skin is strongly correlated with abnormal mitochondrial function, elevated oxidant levels, and a decline in CoQ10 levels. This decline is evident with aging, irrespective of UV radiation exposure, but is exacerbated by excessive UV radiation, leading to oxidative stress. This reduction in CoQ10 is also associated with diminished mitochondrial membrane potential and a shift from lipolysis to glycolysis for sustaining energy metabolism.[1] For these reasons, CoQ10 is believed to offer skin protection due to its role as a mitochondrial factor and antioxidant.[2]
In vitro studies have demonstrated that CoQ10 may improve skin elasticity by increasing elastin expression[3] and preserving collagen.[4] CoQ10 may also have anti-wrinkle effects by protecting against UV damage,[5] and depigmentation potential[3] with more pronounced effects in cells purposely depleted of CoQ10.[6]
Furthermore, the application of a cream containing 0.01% of CoQ10 twice daily for a week, both in older and younger individuals, increased and preserved mitochondrial membrane function, suggesting a potential benefit of using CoQ10 in anti-aging skin care products.[1]
Additionally, a few studies have used combination therapies, usually with vitamin E, retinyl palmitate (highly bioactive form of vitamin A), grape seed extract (as oil), and linseed oil, and found that topical application of these combination therapies protected against UV and reduced wrinkling in aged subjects.[7]