Get the 101 on vitamin E in this Skincare 101—our comprehensive skincare dictionary of every ingredient that you need to know about.
If you are looking for a way to enhance your skin's natural glow, vitamin E is a good place to start.
This fat-soluble, essential nutrient has anti-inflammatory properties and can help with a wide range of skin conditions. So what are its complexion benefits, and where does it best fit into your skincare routine order? Here’s what you need to know about it.
What is vitamin E?
Vitamin E is an antioxidant, which means it helps to stave off free radicals from the skin by preventing oxidative damage to cells—and in turn means it’s a great anti-ageing ingredient for your complexion.
“One of the most well-known and researched ingredients for the body and for skin, vitamin E occurs naturally in human skin, where it offers significant antioxidant properties to help defend from pollution and other environmental stressors that would otherwise weaken skin, causing unwanted changes,” says Paula Begoun, founder of cult skincare brand Paula’s Choice.
“Unfortunately, with time and sun damage, skin’s vitamin E decreases, depleting our natural ability to fight the signs of aging," she continues. "But you can absolutely replenish skin with topically applied vitamin E: you’ll most commonly find it listed as tocopherol or tocopheryl acetate on the ingredient list. Tocotrienols are an excellent source, too."
It’s worth reminding you that you can’t fight off the effects of the environment using vitamin E alone: using one of the best sunscreens for face every day, all year round is an absolute must to protect your skin and prevent premature aging.
What are the benefits of vitamin E for skin?
“Vitamin E is one of the most important antioxidants for the skin,” says Dr Kemi Fabusiwa, aka Dr Fab, skin expert and ambassador for The INKEY List. “It helps to counteract the damage caused by external aggressors that triggers inflammation and blemishes."
She adds: "It helps to support the skin’s immune system and the functioning of the cells, and works nicely alongside other antioxidants, such as vitamin C and ferulic acid.”
Because of its moisturizing, soothing and protective properties, there are specific skin conditions that may benefit from using vitamin E in your routine. These include hyperpigmentation or scarring, wrinkles and fine lines and potentially even eczema.
How to use vitamin E in your skincare routine
Vitamin E is a major component in many skincare products, but most commonly serums and moisturizers. If you want to try out something with vitamin E, consider a treatment serum that’s formulated with other actives for a multi-pronged approach—you’ll benefit most from its antioxidant protection in the morning.
It’s worth remembering that new actives should always be factored into your routine gradually, so that your skin can adjust and you can monitor any sensitivity.
Alternatively, buying a fuss-free thick moisturiser is a good way to go when it comes to this soothing and moisturising ingredient. Apply it as the last step in your routine, apart from during the day when you’ll use a separate SPF.
So vitamin E is definitely an important member of the skincare supporting cast. Add it into your daily regime alongside other actives and you're sure to see visible results over time.
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