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Ubiquinone

What Ubiquinone is & what it does

Coenzyme Q10, an antioxidant naturally present in skin that helps neutralize free radicals and support the look of firmer, more energized skin. It declines with age, so it is added to defend against environmental stress.

What is Ubiquinone and what does it do in sunscreen?

Ubiquinone is the INCI name for Coenzyme Q10, an antioxidant that the skin and body make naturally. In a sunscreen it helps neutralize free radicals, the unstable molecules generated by UV and pollution, adding a layer of antioxidant defense on top of the UV filters. It supports the look of firmer, more energized skin.

Is Ubiquinone the same as Coenzyme Q10?

Yes. Ubiquinone is simply the INCI (label) name for Coenzyme Q10, often shortened to CoQ10. They are the same antioxidant, so a product listing "Ubiquinone" and one advertising "Q10" are referring to the same ingredient.

Is Ubiquinone an antioxidant or a UV filter?

It is an antioxidant, not a UV filter. It does not block or absorb UV light, so it cannot raise a sunscreen's SPF. Instead it works alongside the actual filters by mopping up some of the free radicals that UV exposure creates, which is a complementary kind of protection rather than sunscreen itself.

Is Ubiquinone safe?

Yes. Ubiquinone is well tolerated and considered safe in cosmetics, and it mirrors an antioxidant the skin already contains. Reactions are uncommon, and it is generally suitable for sensitive skin. Levels in skincare are low and used for antioxidant support.

Does Ubiquinone clog pores?

No. It is used in small amounts as an antioxidant rather than as an oil or emollient, so it is not considered comedogenic. It is an unlikely cause of breakouts. If a Q10 product feels rich, that usually comes from the surrounding moisturizing base, not the ubiquinone itself.

Sunscreens with Ubiquinone

We rate 172 sunscreens that contain it, showing the top 10 by overall score:

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