Figuring out how to layer your skincare products to maximize your results (and not irritate your skin or reduce the effectiveness of active ingredients) can be one of the most challenging aspects of creating a skincare regime. Let’s discuss what you need to know about retinol and CoQ10, and how to best work them into your routine.
What is CoQ10 in Skincare?
Coenzyme Q10 (AKA CoQ10) is an enzyme with potent antioxidant properties. It’s naturally found in the cells in the body, where it plays an important part in energy production.
When used topically in skincare formulas, CoQ10 offers a wide range of benefits for the complexion (which we’ll cover in more detail below), helping to protect and rejuvenate. This is what ultimately makes it such a valuable ingredient for all skin types. You’ll find this ingredient featured in a variety of skincare products, including moisturizers, toners, and serums – such as our CoQ10 Boost Serum.
Benefits of CoQ10
CoQ10 is perhaps best known for its antioxidant properties. In skincare, antioxidants work to defend the skin against damaging free radicals from environmental aggressors like pollution, smoke, and UV rays. Free radical exposure can lead to visible changes in the skin, including fine lines and wrinkles, loss of firmness and elasticity, dullness, and discoloration. This is why working topical antioxidants like CoQ10 is essential for maintaining a youthful and radiant complexion.
Beyond its antioxidant effects, CoQ10 is an effective anti-aging ingredient. It stimulates the body’s natural production of collagen and elastin, which are both essential components for maintaining the skin’s structure. This helps smooth the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and improve elasticity.
This skincare ingredient also improves uneven skin tone by blocking an enzyme called tyrosinase, which is responsible for melanin production. Additionally, CoQ10 nourishes and energizes the cells to support healthy, strong skin.
How To Use CoQ10
CoQ10 plays well with virtually all other skincare ingredients. The Small Batch Serums CoQ10 Boost Serum is formulated with other effective yet gentle ingredients (including the antioxidant vitamin E, as well as brightening and soothing licorice root and green tea leaf extracts), and is designed to be layerable with other products.
CoQ10 can also be used both in the morning and the evening. Applying it in the morning will help defend your skin against the environmental aggressors you encounter during the day, while applying it in the evening will help your skin renew and rejuvenate as you sleep.
If you’re thinking of layering the CoQ10 Boost Serum with other serums, a general rule to follow is to apply your products from thinnest to thickest. This ensures the thinner formulas are best able to absorb into the skin so that the active ingredients can get to work. After cleansing, apply your thinnest serum first, and then apply any thicker formulas you’re using. Follow up with a moisturizer, as well as sunscreen during the day.
Using Retinol with CoQ10
As you may have already guessed, you can safely layer retinol with CoQ10. With our CoQ10 Boost Serum, we recommend applying your retinol product first to clean, dry skin, and allowing it to absorb for at least 10 minutes. You can then apply the serum, and finish with a moisturizer. For those that are worried about retinol causing irritation and dryness, you can also apply the CoQ10 Boost Serum first to help mitigate those negative side effects.
The Science Behind Retinol and CoQ10 Interaction
Retinol and CoQ10 complement each other in skincare. Retinol accelerates cell turnover and boosts collagen production, while CoQ10 provides antioxidant protection and energy to skin cells. This combination helps reduce signs of aging, such as fine lines and wrinkles, and enhances skin firmness and elasticity. Using these ingredients together can optimize your skincare routine for a youthful and radiant complexion.
Tips for Beginners Using Retinol and CoQ10
For those new to using retinol and CoQ10, start slowly to avoid potential irritation. Begin by using retinol once or twice a week, gradually increasing frequency as your skin builds tolerance. Pair it with CoQ10 to mitigate dryness and enhance the overall effectiveness of your regimen. Always apply sunscreen during the day, as retinol can increase skin sensitivity to the sun. This gradual approach ensures your skin adapts well to these powerful ingredients.
Common Myths About Retinol and CoQ10
There are several myths about retinol and CoQ10 that need debunking. One common misconception is that these ingredients cannot be used together, which is false. Another myth is that retinol thins the skin; in reality, it strengthens and thickens the dermis over time. Lastly, some believe CoQ10 is only for aging skin, but it benefits all skin types by protecting against environmental stressors and supporting overall skin health.
Retinol should only be used in the evening. With this in mind, you can apply the CoQ10 serum in the morning with other products you’re using (such as the Vitamin C Boost Serum and the Hyaluronic Pure Boost Serum), and then layer it with retinol at night. This will allow you to get the maximum benefits from CoQ10, as well as the optimal results from your retinol product of choice (while minimizing your risk of aggravating the skin).
