Photo courtesy of David Cohen de Lara / Licensed Project
Can CoQ10 Improve Your Skin?
It’s no secret that oxidative stress damages our skin. As it builds up over time, it can become increasingly apparent on our skin. Using a moisturizing sunscreen and a strong antioxidant can limit the damage caused by free radicals and help keep our skin smooth and glowing. A lesser known antioxidant – CoQ10 – may also help.
What is CoQ10?
CoQ10 (also known as coenzyme Q or ubiquinone) is a potent antioxidant that helps neutralize free radicals that can damage our cells. It’s made in our mitochondria — the cell’s powerhouse, where energy is made. And CoQ10 supports cellular energy production through its role in a chain of chemical reactions.
How does CoQ10 benefit our skin?
Most of us make less CoQ10 as we age, which can affect how efficiently our cells and organs function. When it comes to our skin, wrinkles, density and smoothness can be compromised. Research shows that supplementing with CoQ10 can protect your skin from free radicals and improve its appearance.
Preclinical studies show that CoQ10 can protect skin cells from oxidative stress and damage caused by UVA and UVB rays, which affect the skin’s appearance over time. CoQ10 even supports the production of collagen – a protein known to benefit the structure of our skin.
How much CoQ10 should I take?
Not many foods contain CoQ10: food sources include meat, fish and nuts. The average American diet provides people with about 3-5 milligrams of CoQ10 per day. If meat, fish, and nuts aren’t a regular part of your diet, you’re likely getting less than that.
There is no recommended daily amount for CoQ10, but research shows that supplementing with 30 to 400 milligrams per day can support our overall health. And about 50 to 150 milligrams supports skin health.
We designed our GOOPGLOW Morning Skin Superpowder with 50 milligrams of CoQ10, along with vitamins C and E, the carotenoids lutein and zeaxanthin, and grape seed proanthocyanidins. Mixed with water, citrus pulp tastes great; Drink it every morning as part of a healthy morning skin care routine. *
And if you’re looking for more potent antioxidants to add to your skin care regimen, GOOPGLOW Everyday Glow Multivitamin is a quality daily multivitamin that provides health support and benefits. for skin, hair and nails. *
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goop Beauty
GOOPGLOW EVERY DAY GLOW MULTIVITAMIN
goop, $60/$55 with subscriptionSHOP NOW -
goop Beauty
GOOPGLOW Morning Skin Superpowder
goop, $60/$55 with subscriptionSHOP NOW
It is formulated with the antioxidant nutrients beta-carotene, vitamins C and E, and selenium to promote skin’s natural resilience to normal sun exposure. A concentrated dose of lycopene – a carotenoid harvested from tomatoes – allows for additional protection against free radical-related damage and daily environmental stress.
Other ways to help protect skin from radical damage
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Topical sunscreen
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Mineral-colored face sunscreen
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Topical Antioxidants
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GOOPGLOW 20% Vitamin C + Hyaluronic Acid Glow Serum
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Related reading
Comprehensive multivitamin for every day light
Why are antioxidants good for the skin?
Mineral Sunscreen vs Chemical Sunscreen: Understanding the Difference
The best supplements for healthy skin
*These claims have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
