Vitamin E Health and Skin Benefits​

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Introduction to Vitamin E

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Vitamin E, a vital nutrient for overall health, has garnered significant attention for its remarkable benefits when applied topically in skincare. It not only has diverse advantages for skin health like antitumorigenic and photoprotective properties but also many benefits for oral intake. However there are very special challenges associated with formulating stable vitamin E-based skincare products.

• 1. Dietary Sources and Importance: Vitamin E, primarily obtained through dietary sources, is synthesized by plants. Nuts, spinach, whole grains, olive oil, and sunflower oil rank among the richest sources of this essential nutrient. Its inclusion in our diet ensures adequate levels for overall health and contributes to the maintenance of healthy skin.

• 2. Challenges in Topical Application: While many cosmeceuticals incorporate vitamins C and E, achieving effective topical application poses challenges. The stability of vitamin E is compromised upon exposure to air and light, making it difficult to maintain its potency in skincare products. Thus, selecting stable formulations becomes crucial for maximizing the benefits of vitamin E on the skin.

• 3. Antitumorigenic Properties: Vitamin E has demonstrated antitumorigenic potential, exhibiting the ability to inhibit the growth of certain types of skin tumors. Its antioxidative properties neutralize free radicals, which play a significant role in carcinogenesis. By reducing oxidative stress and DNA damage, vitamin E contributes to the prevention of skin cancer.

• 4. Photoprotective Effects: One of the most noteworthy attributes of vitamin E is its photoprotective properties. When utilized in stable formulations with optimal isomers, vitamin E acts as an antioxidant and mitigates the damaging effects of acute and chronic UV exposure. By scavenging free radicals and reducing oxidative stress, it aids in preventing UV-induced skin damage, photoaging, and the development of skin cancer.

• 5. Optimal Formulations and Efficacy: Developing stable formulations that preserve the integrity and efficacy of vitamin E is essential. When delivered in high concentrations and as nonesterified, optimal isomers, vitamin E can effectively inhibit UV damage and protect against chronic photodamage. Therefore, finding ways to make stable formulations has the potential to harness the full benefits of vitamin E for improved skin health.

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Vitamin E protects against (NIH 2016):

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• chronic photoaging

• UV damage

• skin cancer

• melasma

• acne

• headaches

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Usage of Vitamin E Benefits (NIH 2016):

• improvement in the skin of scleroderma patients

• heals wounds

• helps keep many diseases like Hailey Hailey Disease and Epidermolysis bullosa under control

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Resources:

• NIH 2016