But with curiosity comes questions and confusion.
Well, we’re here to explain the difference.
What is coenzyme Q10?
First up, let’s go over the molecule itself.
It’s a coenzyme, meaning it helps enhance the actions of key enzymes in the body.
CoQ10 is a unique coenzyme in that it’s also afat-soluble antioxidant1found in almost every cell of your body.
There’s really no limit to how much you’re free to protect and repair your body!"
And all antioxidants come with their own set of benefits and specialized focus areas for health.
CoQ10, in particular, plays several critical roles in the body.
Its primary role in the body is to support energy production.
Because this happens in every cell in the human body, CoQ10 supports overall health, too.
Like all antioxidants, it fights free radicals.
But it’s not just any antioxidant.
In fact, it’s the onlyfat-soluble antioxidant1naturally made by the human body.
It alsosupports skin health, thanks to its antioxidant and energy-promotion abilities.
When used via topicals, research has found that topicalCoQ10 can significantly decrease facial wrinkles3.
And a clinical trial found that CoQ10supplements reduce the appearance of wrinkles and lines4while enhancing skin smoothness.
Summary
What is ubiquinol?
However, ubiquinol is themost prevalent form5, accounting for 90% of the CoQ10 in the blood.
A real multitasker, ubiquinol is also a powerhouse antioxidant."
What is ubiquinone?
Which one should you use?
You’ll see both forms show up in supplements and topicals.
And there are benefits to using one over the other depending on the format of the product.
For example, in orally consumed dietary supplements, you should look for ubiquinol.
Given the nature of topical formulations, cosmetic chemists use the more stable version, ubiquinone.
For healthy aging antioxidant supplements to look for, check out our guide toantioxidants for the skin.
*
