A skin care composition is useful for augmenting cellular metabolism in skin cells and thereby enhancing the regulation of intracellular signaling. The composition comprises a primer for skin cell mitochondrial function, such as a Krebs cycle intermediate, a precursor of a Krebs cycle intermediate, salts or esters thereof, or combinations thereof. The composition may also include antioxidants for free radical regulation and a pharmaceutically acceptable topical vehicle, such as an emollient base for skin health. A method for stimulating the mitochondrial activity of skin cells comprises administering to the skin of a person in need thereof a composition as described herein.