Vitamins play a vital role in maintaining a healthy appearance of the skin. Of course, our diet should be a key source of vitamins for our body, but topical products and vitamin supplements are also helpful. Besides making our skin supple and glowing, vitamins treat conditions like psoriasis and acne and aging effects like wrinkles and fine lines.
Vitamin E, a vital fat-soluble nutrient, acts as an antioxidant combating the impact of free radicals produced through the breakdown of toxins and environmental factors. It may play a role in minimizing UV damage to the skin and reducing the risk of blood clots by dilating blood vessels. Furthermore, Vitamin E has been associated with slowing the progression of Alzheimer’s disease. Unfortunately, vitamin E levels in the skin decline with age and are affected by factors such as UV light and sun exposure.
Vitamin E for Skin
Vitamin E helps your skin in various ways. Let’s explore one by one.
1. Reduces Aging and Wrinkles
Research has revealed that vitamin E and other natural ingredients rich in antioxidants are commonly approved as a treatment for delaying wrinkles (1). Moreover, as it improves blood circulation, the firmness and structure improve after topical application of vitamin E oil.
2. Reduces Acne Scars
One of the main benefits of vitamin E is that it reduces acne scars. As a potent antioxidant, it reduces acne scarring and speeds up healing.
3. Hyperpigmentation
Due to hyperpigmentation, dark patches can appear on the skin. Known as melisma, the condition is treatable with topical application of vitamin E. However, research shows that hyperpigmentation may only be reasonably treated by using topical vitamin E oil. The best way to use it is to pair it with vitamin C (2).
4. Stretch Marks Reduction
It isn’t easy to get rid of stretch marks. However, vitamin E is one of the best ways to reduce stretch marks due to sudden weight gain, loss, or pregnancy. The potent antioxidant in vitamin E boosts collagen production, regaining skin elasticity and fading stretch marks slowly.
5. Soft and Smooth Lips
Topical application of vitamin E oil relieves chapped and dry lips. Vitamin E encourages cell regeneration, so the new cells on the lips come faster. Its moisturizing property prevents further irritation.
DIY Vitamin E Rich Packs for Skin
With vitamin E’s luring benefits, who doesn’t want to whip a mask and pamper her skin? We bring you five fantastic skin packs for your skin:
Vitamin E Anti-Aging Face Pack (Coconut Oil Face Pack)
Ingredients
- One tablespoon of coconut oil
- One tablespoon – pomegranate seed oil
Method
In a bowl, mix both oils. Apply the mixture to clean the face and neck. Leave it for one hour and then wash. You may use it every day or before going to bed.
Why does this work?
This face mask makes the skin firm and heals skin damage. It also rejuvenates the skin damaged from tanning.
Also Read – 10 Benefits of Vitamin E Capsules on Skin and Hair
Vitamin E Acne Scar Reduction Face Pack (Aloe vera, Oatmeal, and Green tea Face Pack)
Ingredients
- One tablespoon – aloe vera
- One tablespoon – oatmeal
- Three tablespoon – green tea
Method
Mix all the ingredients in a bowl. Apply on the skin and leave for 15 minutes. Wash it off. You can use it once or twice a week.
Why does this work?
With the healing properties of aloe vera, this face pack is rich in vitamin E and antioxidants. As a result, it brings a glow to the skin and helps renew cells.
Vitamin E Face Pack for Treating Hyperpigmentation (Chickpea flour and Almond oil Pack)
Ingredients
- Two tablespoon – chickpea flour
- One tablespoon of almond oil
- A pinch of Turmeric
- Two tablespoon – milk
Method
In a clean bowl, mix all the ingredients. It will form a runny paste. Apply it all over your face and leave it for 10 minutes. Then, wash it off and spray your face with rose water.
Why does this work?
Almond oil is rich in vitamin E. Combined with other ingredients, it is a soothing and healing pack for your skin. You can apply this once or twice a week.
Vitamin E Stretch Marks Removal Cream (Aloe and Vitamin E Cream)
Ingredients
- Two tablespoon – Aloe vera gel
- One teaspoon of vitamin E Oil
Method
Scoop out aloe vera gel from the leaves. Mix both ingredients in a clean bowl. Apply this on clean skin and leave it overnight.
Why does this work?
Aloe vera has the properties of regenerating skin tissues, and it heals the skin, too. Combined with vitamin E oil, it works wonders on the skin and removes stretch marks.
Vitamin E for Smooth Lips (Cocoa-sugar Lip scrub)
Ingredients
- One tablespoon – cocoa butter melted
- One teaspoon – refined sugar
Method
Mix both ingredients in a clean bowl. Apply on the lips and leave for 5 minutes. Scrub gently and wash off.
Why does this work?
Cocoa butter is rich in vitamin E. It softens the lips. The refined sugar crystals serve as exfoliants for lips, bringing out those soft and smooth baby lips after application.
Vitamin E Capsules
Another way to get vitamin E for beauty treatments is to use vitamin E capsules. They are a storehouse of nutrients. The oil in capsules can be used for different body parts, from head to toe. You can even swallow it. Here are a few ways you can use these capsules to get the maximum benefit:
1. Night cream
Vitamin E capsules can be an alternative to night creams. All you need to do is mix a few drops of Vitamin E oil with a little of your regular night cream. Then, apply this all over your clean face. It works as a serum and keeps your skin moisturized the whole night. Apply it 30 minutes before bed to avoid staining bed sheets or pillowcases.
Also, Read – 5 Vital Vitamins for Healthy Skin and Long Hair to Try
2. Hair growth
Vitamin E is the perfect panacea for all hair problems. First, squeeze out the oil from the capsule and mix it with regular hair oil. Massage it well in the hair’s roots and tips and keep it for 2-3 hours. Next, shampoo your hair and rinse with warm water. Try to use it twice a week. You will begin noticing the results in 2-3 weeks.
3. Anti-wrinkle cream
Are fine lines and wrinkles keeping you away from looking in the mirror? Worry no more because now, Vitamin E oil will work as an anti-aging cream. Packed with antioxidants, it will nourish your skin from the inside, improving blood circulation. Massage the oil on your skin to make your skin firm and glowing.
4. Nail growth
Your hands are continuously exposed throughout the day due to laundry, dishwashing, cleaning, or gardening chores. Excess exposure to water makes your nails weak and brittle. They might even turn yellow and start chipping. Vitamin E is the solution to this problem. Massage the oil on your nails, skin around your nails, and cuticles gently. Do this before bedtime and see the change yourself.
5. Avoids sunburn
Vitamin E will give relief to your skin if your skin is sensitive and prone to sunburn. It works as a soothing cream after sunburn. It also treats dry and flaky skin due to its moisturizing power. Again, though, wearing sunscreen is recommended before going out in the sun.
6. Treats Dark Circles
Vitamin E oil is the best way to get rid of dark circles. Mix it with your regular cream and apply it gently before going to bed.
Also Read – Home Remedies for Dark Circles under the Eyes
Side Effects Of Vitamin E Oil
For those experiencing a breakout frequently or who have pores that clog easily, using Vitamin E oil may aggravate the condition. It is to be considered whether Vitamin E is an effective remedy. Doing a patch test before proceeding to use any remedy is recommended.
Vitamin E supplements are considered safe for most people. Prolonged usage can cause Vitamin E to accumulate in your body. This can result in blood thinning and reduced platelet count.
Availability
Vitamin E capsules are readily available at a local pharmacy or health or beauty store. In addition, many beauty products are enriched with Vitamin E oil. You can even get them from any online store.
Summary:
Vitamin E is an important vitamin to maintain a healthy body, skin, and hair. It is a fat-soluble vitamin that renews your skin and general health. It consists of a group of eight compounds that includes both tocotrienols and tocopherols. It not only combats free radicals in the body but also works wonders for skin and hair. It is easily found in many food products. It is also available as a supplement. It can be taken orally and can also be used topically. It is anti-aging, treats acne scars, reduces hyperpigmentation and stretch marks, and makes lips soft and smooth. It also ensures good hair and nail growth. However, Vitamin E oil may make acne worse or cause you to break out. Vitamin E capsule should be taken orally only upon recommendation of your physician.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Does Vitamin E reduce acne?
Vitamin E is rapidly absorbed into the skin as it is fat-soluble. Thus, it paces up the healing of acne and its scars. It also boosts collagen production, improving skin elasticity and hydration. Vitamin E is unsuitable for everyone, and a patch test should be done before application.
Can I leave Vitamin E on my skin?
If you have dry skin, then you can leave it overnight. For oily or sensitive skin, wash it off after 15 minutes. Ensure that you massage the oil gently on your skin.
What is the best time to take Vitamin E supplements?
It is best to take vitamin E supplements with food as it is fat-soluble. For dose, it is best to consult your doctor.
What foods are rich in Vitamin E?
- Avocado
- Asparagus
- Peanut
- Almond
- Greens
- Mango
- Pumpkin
How many times a week should you put vitamin E oil in your hair?
At least three to five times a week, dilute it with other oil before applying it to your scalp.
Can there be adverse effects of Vitamin E on the skin?
Vitamin E is safe for most people when used on the skin. Fanyone is expected to experience itching or redness upon application of Vitamin E.
References –
- “Skin Photoaging and the Role of Antioxidants in Its Prevention” – ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- “Vitamin E in dermatology” – ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
