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CoQ₁₀
by author Sonya Bass, CH

Skin care products have become very sophisticated over the past 10 years. A look at the label of any well-researched and effective formula reveals the most up-to-date ingredients.

AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids) gently remove dead cells from the surface of the skin. Antioxidants, including vitamins A, C and E, prevent the damage of free radicals. Plants such as aloe vera, camomile, rosehips and lavender soften and moisturize the skin.

A new free radical scavenger to appear in skin care products is co-enzyme Q₁₀ (coQ₁₀). This antioxidant has the ability to enhance the appearance of the skin, decrease the harmful effect of free radical molecules and help skin cells produce energy. CoQ₁₀ has shown its versatility in skin care by not only aiding regeneration of skin cells, but also by evening the skin tone and reducing the color density of age spots.

Much research has preceded the inclusion of coQ₁₀ into personal care products. First discovered in 1957, it was studied and further researched by Peter Mitchell, PhD, who was awarded a Nobel Prize for his work at the University of Edinburgh in Scotland. In 1988 the International coQ₁₀ Association papers were released from Beiersdorf AG in Hamburg Germany on the multiple applications of coQ₁₀ One of the outstanding areas was that of skin care.

A study of daily coQ₁₀ application to fine eye wrinkles over a six-week period showed a wrinkle reduction of 27 percent. Continued application further improved the elasticity of the skin in the eye area.

CoQ₁₀ is found in every living cell of the body and, most importantly, provides a source of cellular energy for building new cells and tissue for smooth, firm skin. The body’s production of coQ₁₀ diminishes as early as the late 20s and consequently the smoothness and elasticity of youthful skin is replaced by fine lines and wrinkles.

To supply the body with an adequate source of coQ₁₀ we need a varied diet that includes rice, bran, wheat germ, beans, eggs, nuts and the best source of all, salmon and sardines. In trial tests the most noticeable results have come from studies on prematurely aged skin and sun damaged skin. Is coQ₁₀ the elixir of skin care? If we believe the research so far it could very well be so.

Soon to be released in the Canadian market are entire lines of coQ₁₀ skin care products that include eye creams, hand and body lotions, firming lotions and wrinkle defense creams. You will also have the choice of organic ingredients in the better lines. For those of us that need a little help to keep the wrinkles at bay, this co-enzyme is a welcome addition to the skin care regimen.

Tips to Ward Off Winter

Wind, snow and freezing temperatures dehydrate, robbing the skin of moisture and making nails brittle and flaky. There’s also the effect of pulling a toque over your hair, or sitting all day in a hot, dry, centrally-heated home or office. Coping with winter is indeed a challenge.

Beautifully manicured nails, an attractive complexion, shiny hair that’s full of body–how do you achieve this with the challenging weather of Canadian winters?

Applying a good quality moisturizer morning and night is one of the most important steps. Look for beneficial ingredients such as Vitamins A, C and E and camomile. (Try to avoid petroleum-based products as they clog the pores of the skin.) Emu oil is an excellent choice. Rich in essential fatty acids, oleic acid molecules that penetrate the epidermal layers, this oil is of similar composition to our body oils. Emu oil is a cell regenerator and can be used on skin, nails and hair.

Here are 10 quick tips to help you look and feel great whatever the weather.

• Avoid dehydration. Give the body the fluid it needs, drink plenty of water or herb teas.


• Morning and night, apply a good quality moisturizer.


• Remove makeup thoroughly every night to give the skin a chance to breathe.


• Use protective gloves for housework, washing up and yard work.


• Use fleece or wool gloves when out in cold, dry, windy weather.


• Do not over-process your hair with perms or colors


• Wear a loose fitting hood rather than a tight cap to protect your hair.


• Do not use over use curling irons.


• Choose a quality shampoo that will not strip the hair of natural oils.


• Give yourself a weekly manicure and pedicure. There are some great products for you to use at home. Treat yourself to a special spa evening! You deserve it!

Source: alive #207, January 2000