Vitamin E
Also known as: Tocopherol, Alpha-Tocopherol
Description
Vitamin E is a fat-soluble antioxidant vitamin and a key component of the skin's natural antioxidant defense system. In skincare, it is most commonly used as tocopheryl acetate (a stable ester prodrug) or alpha-tocopherol (the active form). It is the most abundant lipophilic antioxidant in human skin. [Thiele 2005]
Mechanism of Action
Alpha-tocopherol donates hydrogen atoms from its chromanol ring to neutralize lipid peroxyl radicals, terminating chain reactions of lipid peroxidation in cell membranes. This protects the polyunsaturated fatty acids in the phospholipid bilayer from UV-induced oxidative damage. Tocopheryl acetate is hydrolyzed by cutaneous esterases to release active tocopherol after topical application. Vitamin E works synergistically with Vitamin C — ascorbic acid regenerates oxidized tocopherol, restoring its antioxidant capacity. It also stabilizes the lipid barrier and has mild anti-inflammatory properties via inhibition of protein kinase C. [Keen 2016]
Indications
Available Concentrations
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity to tocopherol or its esters [Keen]
Pregnancy Category
Not classified (topical use generally considered safe)
Found In
Cosmetics containing Vitamin E
Related Conditions
References
- Keen MA, Hassan I. "Vitamin E in dermatology." Indian Dermatol Online J, 2016. doi:10.4103/2229-5178.185494
- Thiele JJ, Hsieh SN, Ekanayake-Mudiyanselage S. "Vitamin E: critical review of its current use in cosmetic and clinical dermatology." Dermatol Surg, 2005. doi:10.1111/j.1524-4725.2005.31724
Limitations
This page provides a general overview of Vitamin E in dermatology. It does not cover every possible use, formulation, or interaction. Individual responses to compounds vary — what works for one person may not work for another. Always consult a qualified dermatologist before starting or changing any treatment.