The Role of Vitamin E in Skincare

Vitamin E is a popular antioxidant and ingredient choice, and is found in many skincare products simply because it serves many beneficial and vital functions for human skin. The raw ingredient is also found abundantly, with many applications within cosmetics and healthcare making it a simple, low-risk and low-cost inclusion. This lipid-soluble antioxidant that is present in the skin and found in various foods such as vegetables, seeds and meat. It helps to protect cell membranes and lipid structures from free radical attack and it is a chain-reaction-ending antioxidant.

How Vitamin E works in Skincare Products

• Antioxidants can scavenge free radicals, combat oxidative damage, reduce lipid peroxidation and inflammation and help to protect DNA from premature ageing.
• The topical application of alpha-tocopherol has been shown to exert photoprotective effects by reducing the number of sunburn cells, reducing UVB-induced damage and inhibiting the formation of skin cancer.
• It has been shown that Vitamin C and Vitamin E are especially powerful and work well together.
• It can help to counteract ​​inflammation and ageing.
• Vitamin E is also considered to be hydrating and conditioning for skin prone to dryness and sensitivity.

Skincare products containing Vitamin E

Alpha-tocopherol is the most active form of Vitamin E, which is photoprotective and therefore reduces photo ageing. Dr Webster recommends:

• SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic®
• MartiDerm Expression Gel
• Lamelle Recharge CE Cream
• iS Clinical Sheald Recovery Balm