Why Pyrroloquinoline Quinone (PQQ) is a Game Changer for Skin

Pyrroloquinoline quinone (PQQ) In Skin Care

Skin care enthusiasts like me are always on the hunt for the next big ingredient that promises glowing, healthy skin. In my opinion as a dermatologist, Pyrroloquinoline Quinone, or PQQ, might become a new star in the skin care world. This blog will dive into what PQQ is, why it’s interesting, its benefits, safety, and how it stacks up against Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10). We’ll also discuss which Baumann Skin Types can benefit from PQQ and share some reviews. To find your Baumann Skin Type, take our quiz for free today with the button below! (Taking the quiz also earns you rewards point for our store!)

Antioxidant benefits comparable to CoQ10

Boosts cellular energy by helping produce more mitochondria

Anti-inflammatory and has barrier repair functions

Not commonly used in topical formulas (too new of an ingredient)

Naturally occurring compound in both plants and animals

What is Pyrroloquinoline Quinone (PQQ)?

Pyrroloquinoline Quinone (PQQ) is a small aromatic molecule found in various foods and even in our bodies. Scientists classify PQQ as a nutrient that helps with energy production and protection against cell damage. It plays a crucial role in our body’s energy management and defense systems.

Why is PQQ Interesting?

PQQ is fascinating because it acts like a protector and energy booster for our cells. It shields cells from damage caused by harmful molecules called free radicals and supports the creation of new mitochondria. Mitochondria are like tiny batteries that power our cells. More and better-functioning mitochondria mean healthier and more energetic cells. This can help our skin look younger.

Another interesting feature of PQQ is that it is still rare to find in topical skin care products. Most studies have been about its use in supplements. So, if you’re looking for products that are very much like PQQ, here are some of the best ones:

The Benefits of PQQ

PQQ has many functions and potential benefits in skin care. Science on this ingredient is still developing, but for now, some of the most notable skin care benefits of PQQ are:

Powerful Antioxidant – PQQ acts as a powerful antioxidant, which means it protects your cells from damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can harm cells, leading to aging and various skin problems. By neutralizing these harmful molecules, PQQ helps keep your skin looking youthful and healthy. Studies have shown that PQQ can neutralize a wide range of free radicals, including those generated by UV radiation and pollution.

Boosts Cellular Energy – PQQ helps increase the number of mitochondria in cells. Mitochondria are responsible for producing energy (ATP) in cells. More mitochondria mean more energy, which helps skin cells repair themselves faster and stay healthy. This can result in a brighter and healthier complexion. PQQ activates certain genes that promote mitochondrial biogenesis, leading to increased energy production within the skin cells.

Reduces Inflammation -Inflammation can cause redness, swelling, and discomfort in the skin. PQQ has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce these symptoms. PQQ reduces inflammation by lowering the levels of molecules that promote inflammation, such as interleukin-6 (IL-6) and C-reactive protein (CRP). This makes it beneficial for people with conditions like acne and rosacea.

Improves Skin Barrier – The skin barrier is like a wall that keeps moisture in and harmful substances out. PQQ strengthens this barrier by promoting the production of ceramides and other lipids that are essential for maintaining a healthy skin barrier. This helps your skin stay hydrated and protected against environmental damage like pollution and UV rays. Improved skin barrier function reduces transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and enhances overall skin hydration.

PQQ Side effects

While PQQ is generally safe, some people might experience mild side effects like stomach discomfort or headaches, especially if they take high oral doses. These side effects are rare, but it’s always a good idea to start with a small amount and see how your body reacts.

Organizations like the National Institute of Health also classify Pyrroloquinoline quinone as a safe ingredient in skin care

PQQ Supplements

PQQ is available in supplement form and can be taken orally. Studies show that taking PQQ supplements can improve various health markers, including reducing inflammation and boosting mitochondrial function. For skin benefits, typical doses range from 10 to 20 mg per day. However, it’s best to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement to ensure it’s right for you.

PQQ vs CoQ10

Both PQQ and CoQ10 are popular for their skin benefits, but they have some subtle differences. These differences include:

Structure and Function – PQQ helps create new mitochondria, while CoQ10 helps existing mitochondria work better. Think of PQQ as increasing the number of energy factories in your cells, while CoQ10 improves the efficiency of the existing factories.

Antioxidant power – Both PQQ and CoQ10 are powerful antioxidants. However, PQQ is often highlighted for its ability to neutralize a broader range of free radicals more effectively. CoQ10 is still excellent for protecting skin cells from oxidative stress and is widely used in skin care for its proven benefits.

Mitochondrial support – While both PQQ and CoQ10 support mitochondrial health, PQQ’s ability to create new mitochondria gives it an edge in boosting overall cellular energy. This increased energy production helps skin cells stay healthy and repair themselves more effectively.

Overall Benefits – Both PQQ and CoQ10 can improve skin health. PQQ’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties make it effective for protecting against environmental damage and calming irritated skin. CoQ10 is well-known for maintaining skin collagen and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles by supporting energy production in skin cells.

Which skin types can use PQQ?

The Baumann Skin Typing System classifies skin into 16 different types based on skin barrier function, sensitivity, aging, and pigmentation. Here’s who can benefit the most from PQQ:

Dry skin Types – By aiding in the synthesis of essential lipids like ceramides, this ingredient can help dry skin types hold on to the moisture already in their skin.

Sensitive Skin Types – Since this ingredient shuts down certain inflammation pathways, it is a good choice as a soothing, anti-inflammatory ingredient for sensitive skin types.

Wrinkle Prone Skin Types – Wrinkle prone skin types can benefit from the antioxidant and cell energizing properties of PQQ. While it won’t halt aging, it can play a supporting role in the right anti-aging regimen.

To find out if you’re one of those skin types, take our quiz for free today!

Conclusion

Pyrroloquinoline Quinone (PQQ) is a remarkable ingredient with a wide range of benefits for skin care. From its powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties to its unique ability to support mitochondrial health, PQQ can significantly enhance skin health and appearance. Whether you have dry, sensitive, or aging skin, PQQ could be the ingredient that makes a noticeable difference in your routine. Always remember to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement and consider taking the Baumann Skin Type quiz to find out if PQQ is a good fit for your skin’s specific needs.

DQH Knowledge drop: In your 20s, your skin cell turnover decreases. (Cell turnover is a key component in keeping your skin youthful.) You know what else slows down? Your collagen production. Starting in your 20s, collagen decreases by about 1 percent per year. Should you want to prevent fine lines and wrinkles, start by eliminating behaviors that contribute to premature aging. “If it’s bad for you, it’s bad for your skin,” says dermatologist Michel Somenek. “Cigarette smoking reduces blood flow to the skin and causes premature wrinkling and a dull skin texture. Making the repeated pursed motion to inhale can also cause smoker’s lines. Alcohol and recreational drugs are toxins for the skin that damage its cellular structure and DNA,” Somenek tells us. “The faster you eliminate vices while you are young, the better chance your skin and body have to recuperate.” Also, adopting an anti-aging routine in your 20s is key. After all, the best offense is a good defense. We spoke to Somenek and experts Joshua Ross and Audrey Kunin to find out more. Keep reading for the best anti-aging products for your 20s, according to skincare professionals. Sunscreen “We all know that the sun is the number one cause of skin aging and starting the prevention in your 20s is very important,” Ross says. “The majority of your sun damage won’t start to appear until you’re in your 30s, so don’t wait until you see it surface or you’ll be behind the curve. Stay ahead of it with a good-quality zinc-based sunscreen worn daily.” Farmacy Green Defense Daily Mineral Sunscreen An invisible sunscreen with SPF 30, plus botanical extracts meant to protect skin with tons of antioxidants. Bonus: It’s clean and fine to use under makeup. Bareminerals Complexion Rescue™ Tinted Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Although we recommend you use your SPF and moisturizer separately, we also understand moments when you don’t have time or energy for that extra step. For those times, this bareMinerals moisturizer is a great thing to have on hand. Vitamin C Serum “A great introduction to anti-aging is to start with a vitamin C serum in your morning skincare routine,” Ross says. “It’s a powerful antioxidant that will neutralize free radicals and brighten the skin.” He adds that it’s a great way to counteract the effects of the sun’s harmful rays, which, as previously mentioned, are among the biggest causes of premature aging. Drunk Elephant C-Firma™ Vitamin C Day Serum The Drunk Elephant C-Firma is a lightweight serum that promises to give skin a glow by combining the brightening powers of vitamin C with ferulic acid, l-ascorbic acid, and vitamin E. The included sodium hyaluronate is meant to replace hydration loss, so you shouldn’t have to deal with any irritation. Sunday Riley C.E.O. Rapid Flash Brightening Serum This potent serum is jam-packed with vitamin C (15 percent, to be exact), which means it’s a potential superstar at both brightening skin and dousing it in antioxidants. Peptides Using peptides on your skin has many benefits, says Somenek. “The skin barrier is what defends the body against pollution, UV rays, bacteria, and toxins. It can be damaged by several everyday factors. Using topical peptides aids in building a stronger barrier,” he says. “Peptides comprise elastic fibers, which are a type of protein. These fibers help to make skin appear taut and firm. Peptides can also help repair damaged skin, relieve inflammation, and even out skin tone. Some peptides can kill acne-causing bacteria that is common in 20-somethings.” Kunin agrees, saying, “Peptides are an excellent entry point for supporting collagen.” She recommends looking for face and eye treatments that contain these collagen-boosting powerhouses. Charlotte Tilbury Magic Eye Rescue Cream This Charlotte Tilbury super-emollient eye cream has a base of coconut oil and shea butter (read: it’s incredibly hydrating). Botanicals plus peptides are meant to help reduce dark circles and boost collagen, respectively. This creamy moisturizer serves up potent collagen-boosting peptides and pycnogenol, and antioxidant-rich vitamin C. “Instead of sitting on top of the skin, peptides penetrate the outer layer so they go deep. The ‘signals’ they send tell the cells to produce elastin and collagen, which are needed for youthful-looking skin,” explains Somenek. At-Home Peel Pads Remember that skin cell turnover fiasco we talked about earlier? One way to help support it is by exfoliating. “Exfoliation is important to help keep skin fresh and luminous,” Kunin says. She recommends using at-home peel pads as an easy and effective way to exfoliate. “The goal in your 20s is to fight the slowing pace of cell turnover. It is wise to use products that gently exfoliate, yet still remove oil and other impurities. Products that have Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA) or Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHA) are a good choice.” According to Somenek, you should only exfoliate two to three times a week. “People of all ages are guilty of over-exfoliating and that can be too much of a good thing,” he says. Dermadoctor Kakadu C Intensive Vitamin C Peel Pad A few swipes of this Derma Doctor powerful peel pad promise to leave your skin glowing and smooth, thanks to the seven (yes, seven) types of chemical exfoliants, including AHA and BHA. It also contains vitamin C via Kakadu plum extract for added brightening and antioxidant protection. KEY INGREDIENTS Kakadu plum extract is sourced from the Kakadu plum, a fruit grown in northern Australia. It contains vitamin C, which restores the skin’s natural barrier, increases collagen production, and soothes irritation. Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Alpha Beta® Universal Daily Peel Pads These are the gold standard of peel pads, with a cult following and over 900 five-star reviews on Sephora. They’re easy to use and contain a blend of anti-aging exfoliating acids. Emollient Night Cream “In your 20s, you need to start upping the hydration in your skincare routine. You may have been cautious of over-moisturizing because of acne in your teens, but as you enter your 20s, your skin transitions and becomes drier,” Ross says. “I recommend an emollient night cream added into your evening skincare regimen.” “Twenty-somethings need to make sure that they are not using creams that will clog their pores and cause excess oil production,” says Somenek. Opt for non-comedogenic products. Cerave Skin Renewing Night Cream One great choice is the CeraVe Skin Renewing Night Cream, which is a non-comedogenic night cream that leaves skin soft and glowy. It combines the moisturizing powers of ceramides and hyaluronic acid. RoC Retinol Correxion Max Hydration Creme “The best night cream ingredients contain retinol, benzoyl peroxide, and/or salicylic acid or hyaluronic acid. The goal is to moisturize, yet remove excess oil,” says Somenek. This Roc Retinol Correxion cream fits the bill as it contains both hyaluronic acid and retinol so it promises to moisturize while also being non-comedogenic.

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