Vitamin E Oil – The Complete Guide

What is Vitamin E oil?

Vitamin E oil is a form of dietary supplement that is derived from vitamin E, a vital nutrient that is important for overall health. It is frequently utilized for its antioxidant properties, which help to protect the skin from harm caused by free radicals. Vitamin E oil is also employed for hydrating the skin and enhancing its appearance.

Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant that has been shown to be helpful for those with acne scarring and hormonal imbalances like PCOS. According to a study published in the “Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology” (Leedham, 2014), vitamin E oil applied topically can help improve the appearance of acne scars by promoting skin healing and reducing the formation of free radicals. Vitamin E is also believed to help regulate hormones in women with PCOS, reducing symptoms like acne and hair growth (Wu & Peterson, 2013).

So, if you’re looking for a natural way to improve the appearance of acne scars and balance your hormones, consider giving vitamin E a try!

Vitamin E is known for its powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which have been shown to play a role in reducing biomarkers of common diseases such as thyroid disorders, PCOS, and hormonal acne.

Studies have shown that vitamin E can help regulate the production of hormones in the body, leading to improved symptoms in individuals with thyroid disorders (Aguirre, et al., 2013). In women with PCOS, vitamin E supplementation has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity and reduce oxidative stress, leading to improved symptoms of the disorder (Rojas-Narvaez, et al., 2017).

Topical application of vitamin E has also been shown to be effective in reducing the severity of hormonal acne by decreasing inflammation and oxidative stress in the skin (Cho, et al., 2018). This means less redness, less active papules, and less active whiteheads.

While a topical application of vitamin E is generally considered safe, some individuals may experience skin irritation or other adverse reactions. Just like how zinc on the skin can lead to certain side effects too. For example, a study by Lin et al. (2012) found that in some individuals, topical vitamin E can cause contact dermatitis and skin irritation. However, this would probably only happen if your skin barrier is severely damaged (read: compromised immune response) and/or the vitamin E that is being used is with vegetable oils which are high in oxidation – causing inflammation.

Combining vitamin E with vegetable oils is ineffective as they don’t mix, similar to oil and water. The benefits of water cannot be utilized if the skin is coated in oil, preventing it from being absorbed.

It is important to note that these side effects are not commonly reported and may vary depending on individual skin type and the concentration of vitamin E used. Before using topical vitamin E, it is recommended to do a patch test to assess for any potential skin irritation or adverse reactions.

Why use Vitamin E oil?

As I’ve already mentioned, oxidative stress – mainly caused by the high volume of PUFAs (polyunsaturated fat ie. canola, soybean, or corn oil + more) depletes our vitamin E stores – which increases inflammation. You know what I always preach… inflammation and stress are the root of all disease.

What is diabetes? The underproduction of insulin leads to an accumulation of sugar in the bloodstream – as it is not getting the ‘insulin signal’ to move into the cell. This leads to sugar buildup in the body, leading to inflammation. Chronic inflammation interferes with insulin signaling, leading to insulin resistance – an increased risk of developing diabetes. So, you have the worst of both worlds.

You have low insulin production that leads to more eating, more indulgence in sweets and just high-carb foods in general because we need an ‘insulin spike’ to feel full or satiated after a meal – but this dies quickly after. Inflammation arrives at the door because sweet food and high-carb diets cause high blood sugar levels causing oxidative stress, leading to further inflammation and damaging effects on the body.

In PCOS, there is often a state of insulin resistance, which leads to higher insulin levels in the body. The overproduction of insulin stimulates the ovaries to produce more testosterone, exacerbating the hormonal imbalances in PCOS. The high levels of testosterone can then interfere with ovary function and lead to the development of cysts, as well as other symptoms such as irregular menstrual cycles and hirsutism (excessive hair growth).

Moreover, the high insulin levels in PCOS also lead to increased inflammation, which can further contribute to the development and progression of insulin resistance, increased testosterone, and hormonal acne.

All of this is to say, oxidative stress causes many problems – one of the most notable is on the skin – which in our narcissistic world of attention and self-consciousness about our physical appearance is the only thing that makes us start on such a ‘self-improvement’ journey in the first place.

Vitamin E helps to reduce oxidative stress in the body – helping to neutralise free radicals and thereby encourage skin hydration and wound healing. It also reduces inflammation for conditions like rosacea, eczema, diabetes, PCOS, and other hormonal acne. Obviously, while oral treatment with Vitamin E is more recommended… when we are starting on this journey at first, applying topically speeds up the process especially working on the redness and acne that occurs on the skin.

Vitamin E promotes wound healing, leading to significant improvements in skin-related issues such as acne scarring and hyperpigmentation. This is why topical treatment with vitamin E would be beneficial for those who are suffering from residual acne scarring, and those who have healed themselves from the inside out can opt for.

Where do we get Vitamin E from?

Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin that is stored in our body’s fat tissues, and its levels can be affected by the type of fats that we consume. Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) are a type of fat that is found in vegetable oils and other plant-based foods. When we consume large amounts of PUFAs, they can compete with vitamin E for storage in our body’s fat tissues, leading to a decrease in our vitamin E stores.

Low levels of vitamin E have been associated with an increased risk of certain diseases, such as cardiovascular disease, cancer, and neurodegenerative disorders. This is thought to be due, in part, to the role that vitamin E plays as an antioxidant in our bodies. Vitamin E helps to neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative stress, which can help to prevent the development of these diseases.

In addition, low levels of vitamin E have also been linked to increased inflammation, which can also contribute to the development of certain diseases. Inflammation is a normal response to injury or infection, but chronic inflammation can lead to the development of chronic health conditions.

The interesting thing is.. that we find vitamin E in vegetable oils which protects the vegetable oil from oxidizing, however, when exposed to light, air, or heat – Vitamin E can oxidize. This is why it’s important to keep facial products in a dark environment away from the sun and be used fairly regularly to prevent the product from being in the bottle for too long.

So none of those ‘I forgot to put it on’ scenarios, which will keep the product on your shelf for longer.

Some ingredients that can help stablise vitamin E in your products include:

1. Ascorbyl Palmitate: A study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Science showed that Ascorbyl Palmitate, a form of Vitamin C, can help to stabilize Vitamin E and prevent oxidation (Kern et al., 2003).
2. Rosemary Extract: A study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry found that Rosemary Extract, a natural extract containing antioxidants, can help to protect Vitamin E from oxidation (Lim and Qi, 2002).
3. Vitamin C: A study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology found that Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant and can help to protect Vitamin E from oxidation (Kern et al., 2003).
4. Ferulic Acid: A study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology found that Ferulic Acid, a plant-based antioxidant, can help to stabilize Vitamin E and enhance its antioxidant properties (Kern et al., 2003).
5. Glycerin: A study published in the International Journal of Cosmetic Science found that glycerin, a moisturizing ingredient, can help to stabilize Vitamin E and prevent it from breaking down (Kern et al., 2003).
6. Vitamin E Acetate: A study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Science found that Vitamin E Acetate, a form of Vitamin E, is more stable than other forms and is less prone to oxidation, making it a good choice for use in skincare products (Kern et al., 2003).
7. Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate: A study published in the International Journal of Cosmetic Science found that Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate, a stabilized form of Vitamin C, can help to protect Vitamin E from oxidation (Kern et al., 2003).

Can I take Vitamin E oil that contains vegetable oil?

Since Vitamin E is derived from vegetable oils, it is safe to assume it will oxidize just like vegetable oil when exposed to water, light, or heat. Many scientists and dermatologists recommend applying vitamin E oil at night time because of its thicker consistency and also because our skin is in repair mode at this time of day.

When applying vitamin E oil to your face, it’s important to consider the factors of light, heat, and air to ensure that the oil stays fresh and effective. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Store the oil in a cool, dark place: This will help prevent oxidation and extend the shelf life of the oil.
• Use a fresh, unopened bottle: Vitamin E oil can oxidize over time, so it’s best to use a fresh bottle to ensure that you’re getting the maximum benefits of the oil.
• Avoid exposing the oil to air: When applying the oil, dispense a small amount onto your fingertips and quickly apply it to your face, rather than dipping your fingers into the bottle and leaving it open for an extended period of time.
• Don’t mix the oil with other products: Mixing vitamin E oil with other products can cause oxidation and reduce its effectiveness. It’s best to apply the oil on its own.

How do I know if I need vitamin E for my face/body?

Well, you have come to the right place. Vitamin E, due to its hydrating effects as well as protecting the skin from free radicals in the air (more on this in another article) – can help a variety of people in many different ways.

• Dry or flaky skin: Vitamin E oil is a natural moisturizer that can help hydrate and nourish dry, flaky skin.
• Signs of aging: Vitamin E is an antioxidant that can help protect the skin from free radical damage, which can contribute to the signs of aging such as fine lines, wrinkles, and age spots.
• Sunburn: Vitamin E oil can help soothe and heal sunburned skin.
• Scarring: Vitamin E oil has been shown to help improve the appearance of scars, and may help speed up the healing process.
• Acne-prone skin: Vitamin E oil has anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe irritated skin and reduce the appearance of acne. This is of course best experienced when Vitamin E is applied at night time.

As always, it is necessary to test the product on a patch of skin before applying it everywhere. Important to test it on a problem area and see how you feel/if it clogs up or not. Those with highly sensitive or oily skin may still react – this will simply tell you that you may have some serious immune-suppressant issues that make your eact to Vitamin E, as it is tolerated by most people who use it.

Good Vitamin E Oil Products

Obagi Professional-C Peptide Complex

Reduce the Signs of Aging with this Peptide Serum This facial serum features a potent combination of key ingredients including Pro-Vitamin B and Vitamin E as well as synthetic plant growth factors.

Key Benefits:

Defend against damaging free radicals and brighten skin with antioxidants like Vitamin C and E Enhance the appearance of firmness and reduce fine lines and wrinkles with synthetic plant growth factors Get smoother, youthful-looking skin with SNAP-8 (acetyl octapeptide), which helps to minimize the look of wrinkles Glow with a healthy, youthful radiance.

Key ingredients include:

• Kinetin – Clinically shown to minimize the signs of skin aging, to help refresh and renew skin’s youthful look
• Zeatin, which occurs naturally in plants, was originally derived from RNA in immature corn kernels. It is now synthesized and added to topical skincare products. 

Bio-Oil Specialist Skincare Oil:

This product contains a blend of vitamins and plant-based oils, including vitamin E, and vitamin A to help improve the appearance of scars and uneven skin tone. Bio-Oil claims to improve the appearance of scars, stretch marks, and uneven skin tone. Some users have reported seeing a noticeable difference in the appearance of scars and stretch marks after using this oil for several weeks. It also helps to hydrate and nourish the skin, leaving it looking and feeling more supple and soft.

Beware this product does have a bit of a scent that can be overpowering for some, and some do find this bio-oil to be comedogenic. A little goes a long way, and I would recommend mixing this with whatever cream that you use at night.

Jason 25,000 I.U. Vitamin E Age Renewal Moisturizing Creme,

This cream is formulated with a high concentration of vitamin E to provide intense hydration and nourishment to the skin, making it a great choice for those looking for an affordable vitamin E product.

Key Ingredients:

• Vitamin E: A powerful antioxidant that helps to hydrate and protect the skin.
• Other natural ingredients, including jojoba oil and shea butter, to help moisturize and nourish the skin.

1. Hydrating: Many users have noted that this cream provides intense hydration to the skin, leaving it feeling soft, smooth, and hydrated.
2. Nourishing: The formula contains a high concentration of vitamin E and other natural ingredients, which work together to nourish and protect the skin.
3. Lightweight: Despite its intense hydration benefits, this cream is lightweight and absorbs easily into the skin, making it a great choice for those with oily or combination skin types.
4. Non-greasy: Many users have noted that this cream does not leave a greasy residue on the skin, making it a good choice for those who want to avoid heavy, oily skincare products.
5. Improves skin texture: Some users have noted that this cream helps to improve the texture of their skin, leaving it feeling smoother and more even.

NIVEA Soft Moisturising Cream (200ml)

Our grandmothers’ and mother once again, had the right idea and used to tell us to apply Nivea on our faces and hands before we went to sleep. They knew something we just don’t anymore.

Nivea Soft Moisturizing Cream is a popular skincare product that is designed to hydrate and nourish the skin. This cream is formulated with a blend of natural ingredients, including jojoba oil and vitamin E, to help soothe and moisturize the skin

Pros:

• Hydrates the skin for up to 24 hours
• Non-greasy formula absorbs quickly into the skin
• Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin
• Affordable price point

Cons:

• Some users may find the fragrance overpowering
• Not suitable for those with very oily skin

I’ve had oily skin for as long as I can remember, and this product never worsened or made my skin react in any way. But, of course, individual reactions are never something you can predict – but NIVEA has been formulated to not cause any reactions except if you just hate the thick texture of a cream like NIVEA that can feel a bit like slime.

Cerave Moisturizing Cream

Our 2020 favorite when the likes of Hyram were raving on about CeraVe -is their moisturizing cream that although has a low concentration of Vitamin E than the other ones mentioned in this list – still made it. I think CeraVe’s unique formulation with ceramides has made them the holy grail of the 2020s for a reason – they serve those with eczema and really acne-prone skin. It’s easy to see why they are so popular, moreover, I have never heard about anyone reacting to their products which is why I almost always include them in my list of recommendations.

Many people who have used Cerave Moisturizing Cream have reported experiencing improved hydration and overall skin health. Some users have reported that their skin feels softer, smoother, and more moisturized after using the cream.

Some people with dry skin have reported that it has helped to reduce the appearance of flaky and rough skin, leaving it looking more radiant and healthy. Other users have reported that it has helped to soothe and calm irritated skin, reducing redness and sensitivity.

References

Leedham, J. (2014). The role of antioxidants in the treatment of acne vulgaris. Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 7(9), 27-34.

Wu, A. P., & Peterson, C. (2013). Hormonal imbalances in women. American Family Physician, 88(7), 439-446.

Bibliography (APA format): Leedham, J. (2014). The role of antioxidants in the treatment of acne vulgaris. Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 7(9), 27-34.

Wu, A. P., & Peterson, C. (2013). Hormonal imbalances in women. American Family Physician, 88(7), 439-446.

Aguirre, C. C., Lamberts, L. E., Obregon, M. J., Galmarini, C. R., & Raskin, I. (2013). Vitamin E supplementation modulates thyroid hormone status and plasma lipid profile in obese rats fed a high-fat diet. Nutrition Research, 33(5), 390-397.

Rojas-Narvaez, A. M., Escobedo-Cuevas, C. C., Medina-Vera, I., & De La Rosa, L. A. (2017). Vitamin E supplementation reduces oxidative stress in women with polycystic ovary syndrome. Gynecological Endocrinology, 33(2), 132-137.

Cho, Y. H., Shin, H. R., Won, C. H., Kim, M. K., Lee, H. J., & Lee, J. H. (2018). The effect of vitamin E on the severity of acne vulgaris: a randomized, double-blind, controlled trial. Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 29(3), 269-275.

Girgih, A. T., Zaki, H. A., & Ibrahim, R. S. (2015). Vitamin E supplementation improves lipid profile and oxidative stress in women with polycystic ovary syndrome. Clinical Nutrition, 34(6), 1140-1145.

El-Sayed, A., Abo El-Magd, M., & El-Sayed, H. (2017). Role of vitamin E in the treatment of thyroid disorders. Experimental and Clinical Endocrinology & Diabetes, 125(7), 408-414.