Description
Description
Coenzyme Q10, or Ubiquinone, is a lipophilic benzoquinone with a long isoprenoid side chain. It is a native component of mitochondrial electron transport and is used in cosmetic formulations as an oil-phase antioxidant and age-support active. Its high molecular hydrophobicity makes carrier design a central formulation requirement.
Chemical & Technical Profile
| INCI / Identity | Ubiquinone |
|---|---|
| CAS No. | 303-98-0 |
| Molecular Formula | C59H90O4 |
| Molecular Weight | 863.34 g/mol |
| Physical Form | Yellow to orange crystalline powder |
| Solubility | Oil-soluble; practically insoluble in water |
| Functional Category | Lipophilic quinone antioxidant / skin-conditioning active |
Mechanism of Action / Technical Function
In biological systems, ubiquinone cycles between oxidized ubiquinone and reduced ubiquinol forms, allowing participation in electron transfer and lipid-phase antioxidant protection. In skin-care formulation, the molecule is valued for redox buffering within lipid environments and for its compatibility with oil-rich delivery systems. The quinone structure, however, remains sensitive to light and oxidation state changes.
Formulation Guidelines
Pre-dissolve CoQ10 in a compatible oil, ester, or lipid carrier before incorporation. Heating may be used to facilitate dissolution, but exposure time and temperature should be minimized. In emulsions, add through the oil phase and verify that the selected concentration remains dissolved after cool-down and low-temperature storage. In anhydrous oils, ensure complete dissolution and monitor crystallization. CoQ10 pairs well with tocopherol, squalane, and selected oil-soluble antioxidants when the carrier remains physically stable.
Compatibility & Stability
Principal risks are crystallization, color change, oxidative degradation, and poor distribution caused by incomplete dissolution. Monitor appearance, oil-phase clarity, odor, emulsion stability, and active-content retention where possible. Light-protective packaging is strongly preferred.
R&D, Scale-Up & Quality Control
R&D qualification of Coenzyme Q10 (Ubiquinone) should include identity, color, odor, oil-phase clarity, and crystallization. For manufacturing scale-up, define and control CoQ10 dissolution temperature, carrier ratio, and cooling profile rather than transferring only the ingredient percentages. The batch is technically acceptable when no crystals form at low temperature and oxidative odor/color remain within the retained-reference range.
Packaging, Shipping & Storage
Supplied in a sealed aluminum pouch. Store tightly closed, cool, dry, and protected from direct light and prolonged heat. Minimize air exposure after opening.
Estimated Delivery: 10–15 Business Days
Applications
Anti-aging creams, facial oils, lipid serums, eye-area products, balms, emulsions, and antioxidant-rich moisturizers.
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