Vitamin E (Tocopherol) – Cosmetic Uses in Skin Care

What Is Vitamin E?

Vitamin E, or tocopherol, is an oil-soluble vitamin found naturally in many plant oils, particularly wheat germ oil. In cosmetics, it is valued primarily for its antioxidant and skin-conditioning properties.

As an antioxidant, tocopherol helps neutralise free radicals and can help protect lipids from oxidation. It is therefore commonly used in skin care products formulated for skin protection and the care of prematurely aged-looking skin.

Cosmetic Uses of Vitamin E

Tocopherol is widely incorporated into creams, lotions, facial oils, serums and other skin care products. Its antioxidant properties make it particularly useful in formulations intended to support the skin against oxidative stress.

Vitamin E and its derivatives, including Tocopheryl Acetate, Tocopheryl Linoleate and Tocopheryl Succinate, are also commonly used in cosmetic formulations.

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has assessed the safety of tocopherol and several related vitamin E ingredients and concluded that they are safe as used in cosmetics and personal care products.

Ingredient Information

INCI: Tocopherol
CAS: 59-02-9
EINECS/EC: Not specified
Functions: Antioxidant, Skin Conditioning

Source: Dweck, Anthony. Handbook of Natural Ingredients (Dweck Books 4) . Dweck Data. Kindle Edition.