Q10

What Is Q10? 

Q10 (also known as CoQ10, Coenzyme Q10, Ubiquinone or Vitamin Q) is a vitamin-like enzyme produced naturally by our bodies and found in every one of our cells. One of the smartest ingredients on the market, it’s been a hero of Asian skincare for years, thanks to its anti-aging prowess. Haven’t heard of it? Read on!

What Do Q10?

As we age, the amount of Q10 in our skin decreases – which means fine lines, wrinkles and the dreaded sagging. But applying Q10 topically has some seriously swoon-worthy effects that anyone with skin is going to want to know about. Firstly, this clever ingredient energizes cell activity – making them more productive, so that skin damage is repaired quicker and toxins are flushed out more easily – keeping your skin oh-so-glowy and gorgeous.

A powerhouse antioxidant, Q10 also neutralizes free radicals, protecting skin from environmental aggressors like pollution and smoke, so you can avoid wrinkles and sunspots (yay). As if that wasn’t enough, it reduces the breakdown of collagen and elastin, simultaneously stimulating production for firmer, smoother, tighter skin. Obsessed yet?

Lastly, studies show that applying this overachiever before going out in the sun could help protect your skin from sun damage – but don’t forgo your sunscreen, just think of this as a defensive booster!

Who Should Use Q10?

If the effects of aging are playing on your mind, then Q10 is a great way to slow the hands of time. Luckily, this versatile do-gooder is suitable for most skin types, except those suffering from vitiligo, as it can hinder melanin production.

How To Use It In Your Routine

We recommend using Q10 in anti-aging-specific moisturizers, creams or lotions. It’s especially beneficial if used before and after sun exposure too. Plus, since it’s fat-soluble, it’s best mixed with similar ingredients (like retinol, vitamin C or glycolic acid), so your skin can absorb it more easily.

Our Fave Q10 Skincare Products:

Source: The Inkey List

The Inkey List Q10 Serum, $7: This super-affordable serum promises to protect your skin and repair damage. Infused with Q10, as well as good-for-you Syn-Tacks (a potent peptide combo), squalane, and hyaluronic acid, it also keeps you looking hydrated and youthful.

Source: Q10

Nivea Q10 Plus Anti-Wrinkle Night Cream, $20: Delivering the double whammy – H20 and Q10 – this ultra-light, high-street bargain glides on like silk to boost elasticity, minimize wrinkles and rejuvenate tired skin while you snooze.

Source: Indie Lee

Indie Lee CoQ-10 Toner, $34: This revitalizing toner clears impurities while balancing your skin’s pH levels. Infused with aloe Vera, cucumber and chamomile, it soothes the skin as the Q10 gets to work – diminishing the appearance of fine lines while fighting free radicals.

For more info on skincare, check out all the amazing skincare ingredients in our Beauty Glossary.