CoQ10 and Collagen are two popular options for keeping your skin youthful – but which one should you choose? Is it better to boost your skin’s resilience with collagen or energize it with CoQ10? Let’s break down the science behind these supplements and discover how they can help keep fine lines at bay!
What is CoQ10? How does it support skin health?
CoQ10, also known as ubiquinone, is a natural antioxidant present in every cell of our body. However, as we get older or experience stress – like too much exposure to the sun’s UV rays – our levels of CoQ10 decrease.1 This decline can impact our skin’s health and accelerate aging.
CoQ10 is well-known for its role in supporting our cells’ energy production, specifically within the mitochondria, a.k.a. the “powerhouse” of the cell.
By enhancing energy production, CoQ10 helps our skin cells repair and regenerate more effectively. This benefit can come from both oral supplements and topical applications.2 3
CoQ10 also offers strong antioxidant protection by neutralizing free radicals; these are unstable molecules that contribute to premature aging. Since UV rays are a major source of free radical damage, CoQ10 can help counteract these harmful effects.4
Moreover, studies show that CoQ10 is effectively absorbed into the deeper layers of the skin. Once absorbed, it stimulates the production of collagen and elastin. These proteins help keep the skin firm and maintain its structure. This makes CoQ10 a great option for reducing visible signs of aging and giving your skin the energy it needs to stay healthy.5 6
What is Collagen? How does it help with skin health?
Collagen is the most abundant protein in our body. It plays a key role in supporting the structure and function of our skin, hair, nails, joints, tendons, and other tissues.
When it comes to skin health, collagen is essential for maintaining structure, elasticity, and hydration. However, the skin loses its supporting matrix as collagen levels decline with age, leading to wrinkles and sagging skin.7
That said, while collagen supplementation can help replenish collagen levels, it’s important to note that not all forms of collagen are the same. Native collagen molecules are too large for the body to absorb effectively when taken in their original form.
This is why hydrolyzed collagen or collagen peptides are recommended. The native collagen molecules are broken down into smaller, more easily absorbable pieces that the body can use more efficiently.8
By supplementing with hydrolyzed collagen, you strengthen your skin, which boosts elasticity, improves hydration, and promotes faster wound healing. As a result, collagen supplementation can reduce the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines, and loose skin, giving you a smoother, more youthful appearance.9 10
CoQ10 vs Collagen: Benefits Comparison
CoQ10 and collagen address aging in different ways. Understanding how each works can help you choose the best option for your skincare routine. Here’s a side-by-side comparison of their key benefits:9 11 12 13
| Benefit | CoQ10 | Collagen |
| Skin Elasticity | Improves skin’s firmness by boosting cell energy production | Directly supports skin structure and elasticity |
| Wrinkle Reduction | Helps reduce fine lines by fighting free radicals and reducing damage | Visibly reduces wrinkles by replenishing skin’s collagen levels |
| Antioxidant Power | Strong antioxidant that protects skin from UV and environmental damage | Does not provide direct antioxidant effects but supports skin resilience by maintaining structure |
| Hydration | Can indirectly enhance the skin’s ability to retain moisture | Directly boosts skin hydration, improving texture and smoothness |
| Healing and Repair | Enhance skin cell repair and regeneration by boosting cell activity | Provides structural support, aiding in wound healing |
| Anti-Aging | Helps slow down cellular aging by reducing oxidative stress | Reduces visible signs of aging by strengthening skin’s structure and elasticity |
Who should take CoQ10?
CoQ10 supplements are ideal for individuals dealing with environmental stress, such as frequent sun exposure. They might be helpful for those with dull or tired-looking skin, as CoQ10 boosts cell energy and offers antioxidant protection, resulting in a firmer and healthier appearance.
Beyond skin health, CoQ10 has a wide range of other health benefits. To learn more, check out our CoQ10 Ultimate Guide for an in-depth look at all its uses and advantages.
Who should take Collagen?
Collagen is ideal for anyone noticing a loss of skin firmness, increased wrinkles, or reduced skin hydration. It’s helpful if you want to support skin elasticity and maintain a plump, smooth texture. Collagen supplements can also be very helpful for those dealing with joint discomfort or weakened nails and hair, as they support overall connective tissue health.
To discover more about how collagen can benefit your skin, joints, and more, check out our Ultimate Guide To The Benefits Of Collagen Supplements.
Can you take CoQ10 and Collagen together?
Yes, they can be taken together. Combining both may offer the best results for those looking to target multiple signs of aging at once. Collagen provides structural support for healthy skin, while CoQ10 offers powerful protection against oxidative damage.
What are the recommended dosages?
While there are no official guidelines, studies suggest a daily dose of 200 mg of CoQ10 is effective for most people. This equates to taking one softgel of our CoQ10 Ubiquinone supplement.
For collagen, a daily intake between 2.5g to 10g has shown benefits like improved skin hydration, reduced wrinkles, less cellulite, and even treating pressure ulcers.9 Our Collagen Peptides powder provides 11g of hydrolyzed collagen per scoop, making it perfect for daily use.
Are there any potential side effects?
CoQ10 is generally well-tolerated, with rare side effects like stomach discomfort, dizziness, or headaches.1 Similarly, collagen is considered safe, though some may experience mild digestive issues, especially if taken in excess.14
Final thoughts on CoQ10 vs Collagen for skincare
The answer depends on your specific skincare needs. If your goal is to improve skin elasticity and reduce wrinkles, collagen might be the better option. On the other hand, for antioxidant protection and cellular repair, CoQ10 may be more effective. Whether you choose one or combine both, these supplements are excellent additions to any skincare routine to maintain youthful, healthy skin.
References:
- Sood, Brittany, and Michael Keenaghan. “Coenzyme Q10.” Nih.gov, StatPearls Publishing, Oct. 2019, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK531491/.
︎ - Knott, Anja, et al. “Topical Treatment with Coenzyme Q10-Containing Formulas Improves Skin’s Q10 Level and Provides Antioxidative Effects.” BioFactors, vol. 41, no. 6, 12 Nov. 2015, pp. 383–390, https://doi.org/10.1002/biof.1239. ︎
- Nogueira, Marcelle, et al. “44265 Oral Coenzyme Q10: The New Authority in Skin Aging. Results of a Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial in Elderly Women.” Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, vol. 89, no. 3, 1 Sept. 2023, pp. AB202–AB202, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jaad.2023.07.809. ︎
- Lohan, Silke B, et al. “Ultra-Small Lipid Nanoparticles Promote the Penetration of Coenzyme Q10 in Skin Cells and Counteract Oxidative Stress.” European Journal of Pharmaceutics and Biopharmaceutics, vol. 89, 11 Dec. 2014, pp. 201–207, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ejpb.2014.12.008. ︎
- Mine, Yukitoshi, et al. Stimulatory Effects of Collagen Production Induced by Coenzyme Q10 in Cultured Skin Fibroblasts. 1 Jan. 2021, https://doi.org/10.3164/jcbn.20-187. ︎
- Ayunin, Qurrota, et al. “Improving the Anti-Ageing Activity of Coenzyme Q10 through Protransfersome-Loaded Emulgel.” Scientific Reports, vol. 12, no. 1, 18 Jan. 2022, p. 906, https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-021-04708-4. ︎
- Shoulders, Matthew D., and Ronald T. Raines. “Collagen Structure and Stability.” Annual Review of Biochemistry, vol. 78, no. 1, June 2009, pp. 929–958, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2846778/ ︎
- León-López, Arely, et al. “Hydrolyzed Collagen—Sources and Applications.” Molecules, vol. 24, no. 22, 7 Nov. 2019, p. 4031, https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules24224031. ︎
- Choi, Franchesca D., et al. “Oral Collagen Supplementation: A Systematic Review of Dermatological Applications.” Journal of Drugs in Dermatology: JDD, vol. 18, no. 1, 1 Jan. 2019, pp. 9–16, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30681787/. ︎
- Miranda, Roseane B., et al. “Effects of Hydrolyzed Collagen Supplementation on Skin Aging: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis.” International Journal of Dermatology, vol. 60, no. 12, 20 Mar. 2021, https://doi.org/10.1111/ijd.15518. ︎
- JCAD Online Editor. “The Role of Coenzyme Q10 in Skin Aging and Opportunities for Topical Intervention: A Review | JCAD | the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology.” JCAD | the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, Aug. 2024, jcadonline.com/coenzyme-q10-in-skin-aging/. ︎
- Pu, Szu-Yu et al. “Effects of Oral Collagen for Skin Anti-Aging: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.” Nutrients vol. 15,9 2080. 26 Apr. 2023, doi:10.3390/nu15092080 ︎
- Žmitek, Katja et al. “The effect of dietary intake of coenzyme Q10 on skin parameters and condition: Results of a randomised, placebo-controlled, double-blind study.” BioFactors (Oxford, England) vol. 43,1 (2017): 132-140. doi:10.1002/biof.1316 ︎
- Van Vijven, J.P.J., et al. “Symptomatic and Chondroprotective Treatment with Collagen Derivatives in Osteoarthritis: A Systematic Review.” Osteoarthritis and Cartilage, vol. 20, no. 8, Aug. 2012, pp. 809–821, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.joca.2012.04.008. ︎
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