Pyrroloquinoline quinone – the powerful active ingredient for energy

PQQ (pyrroloquinoline quinone) is a fascinating co-factor with strong antioxidant properties, making it a real insider tip for cosmetics and dietary supplements. PQQ stimulates mitochondrial function, protects against oxidative stress and activates cells, making it an ideal ingredient in modern formulations.

Physical and chemical characteristics

Molecular formula: C₁₄H₆N₂O₈

Molar mass: approx. 330 g/mol

Physical state: dark red solid powder

Density: approx. 1.96 g/cm³

Melting point: approx. 222–224 °C

Boiling point (estimated): approx. 1018 °C

Solubility: easily soluble in DMSO/methanol, moderately soluble in aqueous buffers

PQQ disodium salt: highly soluble in water (approx. 3 g/l at 25 °C), heat-stable, melting point > 300 °C

These properties make pyrroloquinoline quinone highly flexible in both lipophilic and hydrophilic formulations, making it ideal for serums, creams and dietary supplements.

But what exactly is PQQ?

PQQ stands for pyrroloquinoline quinone, also known as methoxatin, and is a high-quality redox cofactor. In bacteria, it is used as a cofactor for various dehydrogenases and appears to function as an energy-supporting vitamin in organisms. In humans, PQQ has antioxidant, mitophagy-promoting and neuroprotective effects – it is a real cell support miracle!

Effects in cosmetics and health

PQQ offers an impressive range of effects:

– Mitochondrial support: activates cell energy and promotes mitophagy.

– Antioxidant protection: neutralises free radicals and protects skin cells

– Skin regeneration: improves dry skin and supports repair processes.

– Anti-inflammatory and cell protection: soothes sensitive skin and stabilises cell structures.

PQQ offers a holistic benefit as it is powerful both internally (as a supplement) and externally (topically).

Effect on the skin: Pyrroloquinoline quinone as a water-soluble disodium salt

Pyrroloquinoline quinone is a redox-active ingredient that is becoming increasingly important in modern skin care due to its antioxidant properties and its effect on cellular stress mechanisms. In cosmetic applications, pyrroloquinoline quinone is preferably used as a water-soluble disodium salt. This makes it ideal for aqueous formulations such as serums, gels and light emulsions.

Protection against oxidative stress and environmental pollution

Oxidative stress is one of the main triggers of premature skin ageing. UV radiation, air pollution and other environmental factors lead to the formation of reactive oxygen species, which can damage skin cells and weaken the skin barrier. Pyrroloquinoline quinone acts as a redox-active molecule at the cellular level and can help reduce oxidative stress reactions in epidermal and dermal skin cells. In this way, it supports the skin’s natural protective mechanisms against environmental stressors.

In skin cell models, pyrroloquinoline quinone has a supportive effect on signalling pathways associated with cellular stress defence. These processes are essential for maintaining cell function under UV and environmental stress. By modulating antioxidant protection systems, pyrroloquinoline quinone helps to strengthen the resistance of skin cells and limit stress-related functional losses.

Anti-photoaging effects in the dermis: UVA radiation penetrates deep into the skin and plays a significant role in the breakdown of collagen and elastin. Studies on human dermal fibroblasts suggest that pyrroloquinoline quinone can attenuate light-induced ageing processes at the cellular level. Thanks to its antioxidant and cell-protecting properties, it supports the function of fibroblasts and thus contributes to maintaining skin structure and elasticity.

Pyrroloquinoline quinone also plays an interesting role in the epidermis. Effects have been observed in keratinocytes that indicate a reduction in UV-induced stress and irritation reactions. These processes are often associated with redness, irritation and temporary impairment of the skin barrier. Pyrroloquinoline quinone is therefore particularly suitable for skincare concepts that aim to have a balancing, soothing effect after UV exposure, for example in after-sun or urban defence products.

Contribution to the skin barrier and moisture retention

An intact skin barrier is crucial for protection against moisture loss and external influences. Oxidative stress can have a lasting negative effect on the barrier function. By reducing stress-related cell reactions, pyrroloquinoline quinone can help to stabilise the skin barrier. This supports the skin’s natural moisture balance and promotes a balanced, resilient complexion.

Cosmetic classification of pyrroloquinoline quinone: As a disodium salt, pyrroloquinoline quinone impresses with its good water solubility and high formulation flexibility. The active ingredient is ideal for anti-ageing, anti-pollution, after-sun and stress relief concepts and complements classic antioxidants with a modern, cell biology-based approach. In cosmetic products, pyrroloquinoline quinone is used to protect the skin from stress-related ageing, strengthen the skin barrier and improve the complexion in the long term.

Product ideas with PQQ

Here are some applications in which PQQ is particularly effective:

– Anti-ageing serums with an activating, antioxidant effect

– Regenerating creams to support the skin barrier

– After-sun formulas that offer cell protection after sun exposure.

– Dietary supplements to boost energy, cell health and skin from within

Sports and performance care for greater endurance, regeneration and vitality.

Conclusion PQQ

PQQ is a modern multi-talent: it boosts cell energy, activates cell protection and actively regenerates the skin. Due to its physical and chemical properties, it is extremely versatile – from cosmetics and dietary supplements to performance products.

If you want to develop innovative formulations with PQQ – whether individually or as a ready-made solution – then Cosmacon and Tojo Cosmetics are the right choice for you.

Cosmacon designs trendsetting, tailor-made active ingredient formulas with maximum effectiveness.

Tojo Cosmetics offers ready-made private label solutions with PQQ for your brand.

Contact us today and secure your competitive edge with PQQ.

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