The effect of dietary intake of coenzyme Q10 on skin parameters and condition: Results of a randomised, placebo‐controlled, double‐blind study

Abstract

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is a natural constituent of foods and is also often used in both functional foods and supplements. In addition, it is a common ingredient of cosmetics where it is believed to reduce the signs of skin ageing. However, the existing data about the effect of dietary intake of CoQ10 on skin parameters and condition are scarce. To gain an insight into this issue, we conducted a double-blind, placebo-controlled experiment with 33 healthy subjects. Our objective was to investigate the effects of 12 weeks of daily supplementation with 50 and 150 mg of CoQ10 on skin parameters and condition. Study was conducted with a water-soluble form of CoQ10 with superior bioavailability (Q10Vital ). While the results of some previous in vitro studies showed possible protection in UVB response, we did not observe significant changes in the minimal erythema dose (MED). On the other hand, the intake of CoQ10 limited seasonal deterioration of viscoelasticity and reduced some visible signs of ageing. We determined significantly reduced wrinkles and microrelief lines, and improved skin smoothness. Supplementation with CoQ10 did not significantly affect skin hydration and dermis thickness. © 2016 BioFactors, 43(1):132-140, 2017.

Adjuvant Therapies in Diabetic Retinopathy as an Early Approach to Delay Its Progression: The Importance of Oxidative Stress and Inflammation

“…The CoQ10 is present in all cells and membranes and is necessary for mitochondrial energy production [182]. The richest dietary sources of CoQ10 are meat, migratory fish, and some oils and nuts, and the recommended dose in supplements go from 50 to 150 mg [183]. The CoQ10 is the only lipid-soluble antioxidant that animal cells synthesize de novo in the body [184]; and, remarkably, as a combined adjuvant therapy, CoQ10 can recycle and regenerate other antioxidants such as tocopherol and ascorbate [185].…”

Skin Aging & Modern Age Anti-aging Strategies

“…Topical application was found to be more effective than oral administration in terms of sebum levels of lipophilic antioxidants and squalene [145]. Also, Žmitek et.al, 2017 reported oral supplementation with CoQ10 did not significantly affect skin hydration and dermis thickness [148]. As an effective fat-soluble antioxidant and an essential element of the mitochondrial respiratory chain, Q10 may have healing effects on wound tissues by decreasing oxidative stress and improved mitochondrial efficiency.…”

Nutraceuticals and skin appearance: Is there any evidence to support this growing trend?

“…In a recent study, 33 healthy women aged 45-60 years who had signs of skin ageing and wrinkles took either 50 mg or 150 mg co-enzyme Q10, or a placebo syrup for 12 weeks ( Zmitek et al 2017). There were no significant differences in MED between the groups after 12 weeks indicating that there was no increase in photoprotection.…”

“…et al (2001),Rhodes et al (2003),Heinrich et al (2006),Kasai et al (2006),Peguet-Navarro et al (2008),Williams et al (2009), Bouilly-Gauthier et al (2010,Heinrich et al (2011),Rhodes et al (2013),Pilkington et al (2014),Mogollon et al (2014), Farrar et al (2015,Yoon et al (2016),Zmitek et al (2017) Commonly used to look at efficacy of: green tea extract, pomegranate extract, carotenoids, fish oil, cocoa flavanols, probiotics, co-enzyme Q10ElasticityThe resistance of skin to suction (viscoelasticity) and the ability of skin to return to its original position (biological elasticity) can be measured using a cutometer Measurements taken include skin extensibility (Ue), delayed distention (Uv), final deformation (Uf) and immediate retraction (Ur). Ratios are also reported.…”