Overview
It is known that vitamins are good for the body and the skin. But how much do we really know about vitamin E?
We've probably noticed it in advertisements and skincare products, but we don't realise how beneficial this antioxidant is to the epidermis. It is super good for most skin types.
What is vitamin E?
Vitamin E is a fat-soluble antioxidant that is essential for maintaining healthy skin.
Vitamin E is not a single compound, but rather, it is a group of molecules with similar structures. Some of these may have unique properties on the skin.
This vitamin can also be found in the form of vitamin E conjugates. The conjugates require cellular metabolism to activate and increase stability.
The National Institutes of Health (NIH) recognises vitamin E conjugates as the only form of vitamin E that 'meets human requirements'.
Also Read: What are the benefits of vitamin E?
Vitamin E for skin healing
The skin gets vitamin E normally via sebum. Another mode that provides the skin with vitamin E is topical application, which imparts specific vitamin E forms that are not a part of foods.
Vitamin E can absorb the Ultraviolet (UV) light energy. It also plays a key role in photoprotection due to its ability to prevent UV-induced free radical damage to the skin. Their anti-inflammatory properties are an added advantage.
Also Read: Vitamin E Benefits for Hair
Vitamin E benefits for skin
Many cosmetic products have vitamin E as a main component. It is a stellar ingredient for pimples and pigmentation spots.
Vitamin E has a prominent part in the skincare journey, being present in everything from lotions to serums. When applied topically, it is also a skin-friendly ingredient.
Protects the lipid barrier
Vitamin E has been shown to inhibit smooth muscle cell proliferation by a non-antioxidant mechanism.
Based on research, vitamin E has been identified as an important protective factor that works against Hypercholesterolaemia-induced age-related diseases. It prevents oxidative damage to lipid membranes by scavenging free radicals.
Keeps skin moist
The moisturising properties of vitamin E keep the skin hydrated for a longer period of time.
This happens when vitamin E forms a protective barrier around the skin cells. The barrier prevents moisture loss and maintains the appearance of healthy, hydrated skin. Vitamin E also aids in the sealing of cracks caused by dryness.
Heals skin
Anecdotal evidence from the National Library of Medicine, article PMC4976416, proves that vitamin E works to accelerate wound healing and improve the external outcome of burns and other wounds.
Applying a topical form of vitamin E before and after surgery may help in wound healing.
This super vitamin is required for the formation of red blood cells, which are responsible for transporting oxygen throughout the body, helping the skin heal quickly.
Acts as an antioxidant
Vitamin E is considered an extremely potent antioxidant.
When used regularly, it helps to delay the onset of skin ageing.
The antioxidant properties of vitamin E enhance the formation of collagen, a structural protein that is responsible for skin strength and elasticity.
Fighting UV-related skin damage
It is without a doubt that one can not only protect themselves from UV rays but also avert sagging skin, fine lines, wrinkles, dark spots and hyperpigmentation when supplemented with vitamin E.
In combination with vitamin C, its UV-blocking abilities are enhanced. This is due to the fact that they boost vitamin E absorption.
Protects cells from damage
Human skin is prone to get damaged from various sources starting from UV rays to environmental stressors, including pollution and smoke. The free radical in them harms the skin and hasten the ageing process.
The fat-soluble characteristic of vitamin E makes it penetrate the skin and strengthen the outer protective barrier. This shields the skin from external damage.
Softens skin
The skin is made soft and smooth with regular use of vitamin E. It makes the skin supple and renders a glossy skin texture by warding off dryness.
Reduces swelling
Swelling in the skin is reduced with the help of vitamin E. It functions by neutralising free radicals that cause oxidative damage to the cells.
The topical application of vitamin E reduces swelling and thereby rejuvenates it. Many people swear by the effects of applying topical vitamin E to the face overnight.
Calms redness
The skin can turn red as a result of various effects. Vitamin E reduces the redness of the skin with its soothing properties.
Thickening
As an antioxidant, vitamin E can help the skin retain its elasticity. The best thing to do for the skin would be to take it in combination with another vitamin.
When used along with vitamins A and C, its properties are enhanced, and the skin is made thick and firm.
Vitamin A has hydrating effects on the skin, vitamin C protects collagen and elastin, and vitamin E guards against sun damage and increases blood flow. Their combo does wonders to the skin.
How to use vitamin E for skin health
Adding vitamin E to the skincare routine can be extremely beneficial. It not only improves the skin's appearance but also serves as a protective agent.
Vitamin E can be used on the skin in many ways. It is commonly incorporated in face masks to gain a natural glow.
The versatility of vitamin E makes it flexible to be added to any face mask. It works best when combined with Multani mitti and malai.
Multani mitti being a powerful cleanser, will help the skin get rid of dirt and excess oil, while malai acts as a good moisturiser. Adding 5-8 drops of vitamin E oil to this cleansing and moisturising face pack will heal the skin while adding a healthy glow.
Rub pure vitamin E oil on the skin.
Vitamin E oil is available in bottles and capsules. The one in bottles can be used as such. The oil in the capsules can be used by breaking it open and applying it to the skin.
Procedure
After the face is cleansed with a face wash and sprayed with a toner, vitamin E oil is used. A few drops of vitamin E oil can be taken between the palms and evenly applied to the face and neck. You are good to go then!
Use a product that contains vitamin E
The market is flooded with products for skin protection, but all you need is a few drops of vitamin E to perform the function.
Serum
Vitamin E serum can be incorporated into the skincare routine. By doing so, the skin not only gets rid of acne and attains a natural glow but will also not experience fine lines and hyperpigmentation in the long run.
4 - 5 drops of vitamin E are taken on the fingertips and dabbed onto the face after toner application. It is followed by a moisturiser.
It is better to use vitamin E as a part of the nighttime skincare routine as it causes oily skin.
Also Read: Vitamin C Serum Benefits
Moisturiser
The effectiveness of vitamin E is enhanced when added to a moisturiser. Due to its hydrating properties, the potency of a regular moisturiser can also be boosted. This not only brightens the face but also keeps the skin smooth.
For better effects, it is recommended to add 3-4 drops of vitamin E to the moisturiser every day after the application of toner and serum.
Vitamin E foods for skin
Vitamin E can most preferably be consumed through food, but supplements are also an option.
Sunflower seeds and oil
Being an anti-inflammatory agent, sunflower seeds and oil aid in the reduction of redness in the skin. It also helps reduce inflammation in the skin and promotes the growth of new skin cells.
Nuts
Nuts can help purify the blood and give the skin better nourishment and glow.
Corn oil
The skin can be kept moist and smooth with regular corn oil intake. This vitamin E-rich oil absorbs quickly and leaves the skin feeling hydrated and radiant.
Spinach
Spinach can heal the scars, help the skin glow, protects against sun damage and strengthen its natural barrier.
Broccoli
Broccoli is an excellent skin-clearing food that defends the skin from sun damage. They also give a glow to the skin due to their rich nutrient content.
Kiwi
Kiwi helps to brighten and perk up the dull skin due to its vitamin E content. It also prevents the accumulation of dead skin cells. Kiwi intake stimulates the skin and accelerates new cell generation, helping to get rid of pigmentation.
Mango
When it comes to skincare, mango is reliable. It can help protect the skin from the sun's harmful effects. It also reduces acne-related inflammation and brightens the skin.
Side Effects of Vitamin E
There are no known side effects of vitamin E when applied to the skin, and it is most likely safe for the majority of people. It may cause congestion in rare cases in people with oily skin.
Conclusion
Vitamin E is undoubtedly an essential component required for the skin's defences. It primarily protects the epidermis from the sun's radiation and other harms.
Oral vitamin E supplementation alone may not be adequate for skin protection. Therefore, co-supplementation of vitamin E with vitamin C may be necessary to effectively increase skin photoprotection through diet.
FAQ's
1. Is it safe to use vitamin E capsules on the skin?
Yes, it is absolutely safe to use vitamin E capsules on the skin. They can be broken open and applied directly to the skin.
Since it makes the skin oily, it is not prefered for people with oily skin types. Dry skin individuals can greatly benefit from the vitamin E capsules even when left overnight.
2. What does vitamin E do for the skin?
There are numerous advantages of vitamin E to the skin. It can help moisturise the skin, soften it, protect against damage, and when coupled with vitamin C, it guards the skin against the sun.
3. Is vitamin E good for acne-prone skin?
Vitamin E can theoretically be used to treat inflammatory acne conditions. However, there is no proper research or evidence to prove its effects. Due to its oily nature, it is not preferred for oily, acne-prone skin types.
4. Should I use vitamin E if I have sensitive skin?
It is recommended that people with oily or sensitive skin avoid applying vitamin E directly to their skin.
This is because it may cause skin irritation and rashes in sensitive skin while clogging pores in oily skin, making it more oily and prone to breakouts.
5. Can I directly apply vitamin E to the face?
Vitamin E in the form of oil can be applied to the skin directly. However, it is always suggested that a patch test be performed if the skin is sensitive or oily.
6. Does vitamin E remove dark spots?
Scarring is commonly treated with vitamin E, which can help lighten dark spots. Dark spots may be removed when used in conjugation with other vitamins.
7. Can I put vitamin E on my face overnight?
People with dry skin can apply vitamin E oil overnight. Sensitive skin type individuals can wash it off after 15 minutes.
8. Can we mix aloe vera gel with vitamin E capsules?
Yes, mixing aloe vera gel and vitamin E capsules is known to lighten the skin. When combined with fresh aloe vera gel, vitamin E can brighten dull and tired skin.
9. Can I use Vitamin C and E together on the face?
Vitamin C and E can be used together on the face, as it is good for the skin. When vitamin E is used with vitamin C, it receives a boost that revitalises its anti-ageing properties. At the same time, vitamin E acts as a stabiliser for vitamin C.
