Medically Reviewed By
Gaby Vaca-Flores, RDN, CLE
Registered Dietitian Nutritionist
Plus, which kind to look for.
The human body requires this form especially and will even store it for safe keeping while other forms are metabolized. This form is also easily absorbed by the epidermis and dermis which make it the preferred source of vitamin E in many skincare products.
Vitamin E Basics
First, most people don’t realize this essential nutrient actually comes in eight different forms. These forms fall into one of two classes: tocopherols and tocotrienols. Each class includes an alpha, beta, gamma, and delta. Lost yet? Don’t worry. The one you want to remember is alpha-tocopherol.
The human body requires this form especially and will even store it for safe keeping while other forms are metabolized. This form is also easily absorbed by the epidermis and dermis which make it the preferred source of vitamin E in many skincare products.
Beauty Benefits of Vitamin E
So why do so many companies choose to include it in their skincare products? To fully understand, let’s take a closer look at how this vitamin functions in the skin. Vitamin E accumulates in glands found at the base of our hair follicles. It then gets delivered to the skin’s surface in sebum, a natural oil that coats the outer layer of the skin. There, it does its work as a powerful antioxidant. The primary function is to protect against harmful UV rays, but it also fights against all other free-radical damage. It’s especially potent when paired with its antioxidant partner, vitamin C. Additionally, while studies show vitamin E may also help with skin hydration, there are less conclusive results on its ability to heal scarring faster. You’ll want to take care to incorporate more into your skincare and diet as you age and if you are exposed to lots of UV light. Both of these factors will cause the natural concentration of vitamin E in our skin to decline.
How To Get More In Your Diet
The most efficient source is in wheat-germ oil. A single tablespoon gives you 100 percent of your daily value. But if you don’t have that in your pantry (and honestly, who does?), you can get more of this essential nutrient with sunflower seeds, almonds, hazelnuts, spinach, and avocado. You can also look for skin-hydrating supplements that include a healthy dose of vitamin E, such as HUM’s best-selling Red Carpet or Glow Sweet Glow. Both use alpha-tocopherol for maximum results.
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