Hydroxydecyl Ubiquinone
Synthetic analog of coenzyme Q10 – a potent antioxidant with high penetration. Protects against UV stress. Pregnancy-safe.
Evidence by route
Topical application
Potent antioxidant with high EPF. Confirmed topical action.
- McDaniel DH et al. Idebenone vs other antioxidants in topical formulations. J Cosmet Dermatol 2005. PMID 17134415
- Tournas JA et al. Ubiquinone, idebenone and kinetin – comparative photoprotection. J Invest Dermatol 2006. PMID 16528359
How to read tiers A–F
- BLimited evidence. One RCT or several controlled studies with limitations
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Safe
- Suitable for
- Normal, Dry, Combination, Oily
- Use with caution
- Sensitive
About this ingredient
Hydroxydecyl Ubiquinone (idebenone) is a synthetic CoQ10 analog with a shorter side chain that improves penetration. INCI: Hydroxydecyl Ubiquinone. Originally developed to treat neurodegenerative diseases. In cosmetics it works as a potent antioxidant: on the EPF scale (Environmental Protection Factor) it ranks first among topical antioxidants, ahead of vitamins C, E and kinetin. Protects against UV-induced free radicals and supports mitochondrial function in keratinocytes. Use levels run from 0.5 to 1%. Pregnancy safety. Skin absorption into the systemic circulation is minimal. Skin profile. Low to moderate irritation potential. Low allergen risk. Non-comedogenic. Suitable for all skin types. Evidence B – clinical data available.
Frequently asked questions
Is Hydroxydecyl Ubiquinone safe during pregnancy?
Hydroxydecyl Ubiquinone is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Hydroxydecyl Ubiquinone for?
Hydroxydecyl Ubiquinone suits: normal, dry, combination, oily. Use with caution in: sensitive.
What is Hydroxydecyl Ubiquinone and what does it do in cosmetics?
Synthetic analog of coenzyme Q10 – a potent antioxidant with high penetration.
Is Hydroxydecyl Ubiquinone comedogenic?
On the Fulton scale 0/5 – non-comedogenic. For acne-prone skin, a rating of 3 or higher suggests choosing an alternative.
What's the INCI name for Hydroxydecyl Ubiquinone?
The INCI name is Hydroxydecyl Ubiquinone. It may also appear as: Idebenone.
See Hydroxydecyl Ubiquinone in a product composition right on the store page
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