PQQ Function in Skin Barrier Restoration

by: GSHWORLD Time: 2025-07-17 Classify: Product News

The skin barrier is the first line of defense against external aggressors and water loss; once it is compromised, dryness, sensitivity and inflammation follow in rapid succession. In recent years, pyrroloquinoline quinone disodium salt (PQQ) has emerged as a promising ingredient in skin care. Using a triple model that combines cultured cells, zebrafish and human volunteers, one study systematically delineated the dose-response relationship and mechanism by which PQQ repairs the skin barrier.

Robust in-vivo reparative activity

In a scratch-wound assay with keratinocytes, PQQ markedly increased the rate of wound closure, indicating that it promotes proliferation rather than exerts a cytotoxic stimulus. This was corroborated in a zebrafish embryo tail-fin amputation model: treatment with 100 μg/mL and 500 μg/mL PQQ accelerated tail-fin regeneration by 7 % and 14 %, respectively, demonstrating potent in-vivo repair activity.

Sustained barrier-strengthening efficacy

In human studies, a classic tape-stripping/TEWL (transepidermal water loss) protocol was employed. A single application of an aqueous solution containing 50–800 μg/mL PQQ reduced TEWL within 4–6 h, significantly outperforming the vehicle control. More importantly, 14 consecutive days of PQQ treatment further lowered TEWL and increased stratum corneum hydration, evidencing a durable barrier-reinforcing effect.

Skin Health

Three key skin-repair mechanisms

PQQ operates through three main pathways. First, as a highly efficient antioxidant, its reduced form PQQH₂ scavenges free radicals more vigorously than vitamin C, rapidly neutralizing UV- and pollution-induced ROS and curbing lipid peroxidation. Second, PQQ oxidatively activates EGFR while inhibiting its de-phosphorylating enzyme, thereby prolonging proliferative signaling and accelerating reconstruction of the “brick-and-mortar” barrier structure. Third, PQQ stimulates mitochondrial biogenesis, elevating the energy metabolism of keratinocytes and ensuring an adequate ATP supply for barrier repair.

By triggering keratinocyte repair and offering high water solubility and excellent formulation compatibility, PQQ presents a new active option for serums, lotions and medical dressings. Future investigations into synergies between PQQ and classic barrier lipids such as ceramides and cholesterol may further expand its potential in sensitive-skin care, post-procedure recovery and anti-aging applications.

Reference

[1] Lei Yi, Yiyi Peng, Huanyu Ren, et al. Study on the Effect of Pyrroloquinoline Quinone Disodium Salt in Repairing the Skin Barrier. China Surfactant Detergent & Cosmetics, 2024, 47(09): 26-30+68.

*Special note - This article is for informational purposes only and cannot replace a doctor's treatment diagnosis and advice. It should not be regarded as a recommendation or proof of efficacy of the medical products involved. If it involves disease diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation, please be sure to go to a professional medical institution to seek professional advice.