What Is Vitamin E
Vitamin E is the name given to a family of oil-soluble antioxidants. Of the eight different types of vitamin E, tocopheryl acetate and tocopherol are most commonly found in skin-care products. Vitamin E is a fat-soluble, essential nutrient with anti-inflammatory properties. It helps support the immune system, cell function, and skin health. Vitamin E is also an antioxidant, making it effective at combating the effects of free radicals produced by the metabolism of food and toxins in the environment.
How It Works
Vitamin E is a nutrient that the body cannot make on its own. It comes from certain foods, such as nuts and seeds, and supplements.Â
The body stores vitamin E in the skin, in both the outer epidermis and the deeper dermis layers. This is one reason why many skin care products contain vitamin E.
The nutrient lives in sebaceous glands, which form the base of hair follicles. The body transports vitamin E to the skin through sebum, an oily substance that protects and lubricates the skin.
Benefits Of Vitamin E
In addition to its inflammation-fighting antioxidants, vitamin E is a great moisturizer. Here are some of the potential benefits of using vitamin E oil for skin.
Vitamin E is commonly found in facial and body lotions due to its moisturizing properties. Vitamin E strengthens the skin’s moisture barrier, allowing you to retain moisture in the skin for longer. The increased moisture in the skin also gives it a softer and more youthful texture, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
The powerful antioxidant properties of vitamin E make it great for fighting skin damage caused by the sun and other environmental factors. Skincare professionals believe that products containing vitamin E and vitamin C together are even more effective at reducing skin damage. It is shown that vitamin E can prompt the healing of cuts, burns and other skin abrasions.
Some studies have shown that symptoms of eczema are improved by the topical use of vitamin E. This can include improvements in itching and the flaking associated with eczema dryness, especially when used with other moisturizers.Â
Research suggests that vitamin E supplementation can prevent yellow nail syndrome, which causes peeling, cracked, and yellowing nails. Vitamin E oil’s moisturizing benefits may also support nail health by preventing cracked cuticles and dry skin around the nail bed.
Food Sources
Vitamin E can be found in many foods, including:
- certain commercially processed foods, such as cereal, juice, and margarine
- abalone, salmon, and other seafood
- broccoli, spinach, and other green vegetables
- nuts and seeds, such as sunflower seeds, and hazelnuts
- vegetable oils, including sunflower, wheat germ, and safflower oil
Natural vitamin E in food is often listed as d-alpha-tocopherol on food labels.
Our Skincare Top Picks
Hyal Ceutic
Hyal Ceutic intensively hydrates and protects the skin all day long thanks to an optimal concentration of high and low weight hyaluronic acids. A combination of powerful ingredients including aloe vera enhances its soothing and repairing action. Prevents signs of skin aging. Anti-pollution action. For dehydrated skin and the first signs of skin aging. All skin types, ideal for oily to combination skin. Fragrance free Hypoallergenic
Active Ingredients: 5.5% Hyaluronic acid solution, 10% Aloe vera extract solution, Vitamin E ester, Shea butter
Best for: skin replenishing and moisturizing
Couperend maintenance cream
Couperend maintenance cream, in the home performance line, is indicated for hypersensitive and hyper-reactive skin types with couperosis and rosacea. Its soothing and decongestant action helps to minimize skin irritation and redness.
Active Ingredients: Centella asiatica, Sweet clover extract, Troxerutin, Bilberry extract, Hesperidin, Vitamin E
Best for: skin regenerating, moisturizing and protection