Vitamin E, also known as tocopherol
What is Vitamin E?
Vitamin E is primarily an antioxidant. Antioxidants are important in protecting the body from damage caused by free radicals, the unstable molecules that steal electrons from other molecules.
What does tocopherol do?
Tocopherol helps stop free radicals so that cell membranes are not damaged. Continued damage from free radicals is associated with many diseases and with the aging process of the body as well as the skin. Vitamin E works to protect many tissues of the body from damage so that they can function normally. Applied topically, vitamin E may help nourish and protect skin from free radical damage.
Is vitamin E one thing or several?
Vitamin E is not a single molecule. It is a family of eight related fat-soluble compounds: four tocopherols and four tocotrienols. Alpha-tocopherol is the form the body uses most readily.
Can Vitamin E be applied directly on the face?
Some people apply the oil straight from a punctured capsule to dry patches. It is a heavy, occlusive oil, so patch test first and keep it away from congestion-prone areas. If you have eczema, psoriasis or any diagnosed skin condition, talk to your dermatologist before putting anything new on it, and let me know at your appointment so I can work around it.
Can you combine Vitamin E with other oils?
You can puncture several capsules to get enough oil for larger areas such as stretch marks or scars. A common approach is three capsules to one teaspoon of olive oil, rubbed in once daily. Some people also use it around the eyes, forehead and mouth as a nourishing overnight oil.
What are the benefits of taking Vitamin E?
Vitamin E has been used in dermatology since the 1950s to help protect the skin against aging, inflammation, and sun damage. This fat-soluble antioxidant supports healthy skin and a strong immune system. The recommended daily amount of vitamin E for adults is 15 milligrams a day (Mayo Clinic, 2017).
What are the common side effects of Vitamin E?
- Nausea
- Headache
- Rash
- Fatigue
- Blurry vision
High-dose vitamin E supplements can interact with blood thinners and other medications, so speak to your doctor or pharmacist before you start one.
What foods are high in Vitamin E?
- Wheat Germ Oil
- Sunflower Seeds
- Almonds
- Hazelnut Oil
- Sunflower Oil
- Almond Oil
- Hazelnuts
- Pine Nuts
- Peanuts
- Atlantic Salmon
- Avocado
- Rainbow Trout
- Mango
- Brazil Nuts
- Turnip Greens
- Kiwifruit
Antioxidants work hardest when your barrier is in good shape. If your skin is dry or reactive, a hydrating facial is a good place to start, or book a skin care consultation and we will work out what your skin actually needs.
