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The Shocking Truth about Prevage and Idebenone

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Idebenone is a potent antioxidant that is included in a variety of Elizabeth Arden (and associated) products, including Prevage Anti-Aging Night Cream ($125.00, Amazon.com), and PrevageMD (available from selected physicians’ offices).  According to a 2005 double-blind study in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, forty-one female subjects, aged 30-65, with moderately sun-damaged skin used creams with either 0.5% or 1.0% idebenone. After six weeks’ use of either the 0.5% or 1.0% idebenone formula, there was a statistically-significant decrease in skin roughness, skin dryness, and fine lines/wrinkles.

Idebenone has been shown to reduce fine lines and wrinkles, smooth skin, and improve the look of sun-damaged skin.

Why does idebenone work? According to the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, idebenone is a stable form of the antioxidant coenzyme Q10. The most prevalent antioxidant naturally-found in the body, coenzyme Q10 neutralizes free radicals and protects the skin from UV-induced reactive oxidative species.

So what’s the problem?  The issue is that idebenone can cause a rash, known as allergic contact dermatitis, in certain individuals with sensitive skin (Contact Dermatitis, 2007; Contact Dermatitis, 2008; again, Contact Dermatitis, 2008). Allergic contact dermatitis typically begins as a rash at the site where cream is first applied, and can progress to blisters, papules, or vesicles that may be oozing or crusting (gross, I know) if you keep using it for prolonged time. If you do have a reaction, it is likely to be confined to the region to which the cream is applied.

English: Contact dermatitis around a healing r...
English: Contact dermatitis around a healing rugburn. The burn was wrapped in a bandage that the wearer was sensitive to, causing an outbreak of itchy, raised spots. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

But, I don’t want to cause alarm. This effect may in fact be rare. No published data says exactly what proportion of idebenone users experience it. I, for one, did actually experience it whenever I first tried PrevageMD a few months ago. Still, it is a solid ingredient with great efficacy for those whose skin can tolerate it. My best advice? Patch test on a small bit of skin first for 3-4 days and see how your skin reacts. In my case, I knew after just 1 day that I wasn’t a candidate for it!

What are your thoughts on idebenone? Yay or nay? Let us know in Comments!

Allergic contact dermatitis on human foot Fran...
An example of allergic contact dermatitis. If you notice a rash like this, discontinue use of idebenone and see a dermatologist immediately. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
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