Ingredient Directory
Low ConcernVegan

Idebenone

Hydroxydecyl ubiquinone / Short-chain CoQ10 analogue

Safety Notes

Synthetic analogue of CoQ10 with higher antioxidant efficacy; mitochondrial electron chain support; clinical studies show efficacy in fine lines and UV damage; better skin penetration than CoQ10 due to shorter chain; generally well-tolerated; may cause mild yellowing of formulation

Function & Common Use

Function

Active (antioxidant)

Category

Active Ingredient

Common In

Premium anti-aging serums antioxidant moisturisers

Origin

Synthetic

Concentration Limits

India (CDSCO)

No limit

EU Cosmetics Reg.

No limit

US FDA (21 CFR)

No specific 21 CFR cosmetic limit identified in source checked

Korea (MFDS)

No specific MFDS limit identified in source checked; verify if ingredient is used in a Korean functional cosmetic category

Format restriction: Leave-on

Pregnancy: No specific restriction identified in source checked; standard cosmetic use

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Idebenone safe to use in skincare?

Idebenone has a Low concern rating from The Clean Sheet. Synthetic analogue of CoQ10 with higher antioxidant efficacy; mitochondrial electron chain support; clinical studies show efficacy in fine lines and UV damage; better skin penetration than CoQ10 due to shorter chain; generally well-tolerated; may cause mild yellowing of formulation

Is Idebenone allowed in India?

Idebenone is currently classified as "Permitted" under Indian cosmetics regulations. No concentration limit is specified for India.

What is Idebenone used for in cosmetics?

Idebenone functions as: Active (antioxidant). It is commonly found in: Premium anti-aging serums antioxidant moisturisers.

TCS Assessment
Low Concern
Data Confidence
High
Based on peer-reviewed safety data, regulatory status, and expert review by The Clean Sheet panel.

Regulatory Status

India (CDSCO)
Permitted
EU
Permitted
US FDA
Permitted
Korea (MFDS)
Permitted
Australia (TGA)
Cosmetic ingredient; standard TGA cosmetic framework applies; no therapeutic goods listing required unless therapeutic claims are made
Canada (NHPID)
Not specifically listed as restricted cosmetic ingredient in NHPID source checked; standard Health Canada cosmetic notification applies

Identifiers

CAS58186-27-9
EC261-085-3

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