When it comes to ingredients, some ingredients come and go. Whether they are a part of a fleeting beauty trend or make claims to be disproven later on – only some will stand the test of time. When it comes to tocopherol, its pretty much impossible to deny its greatness.
Tocopherol, also referred to as a form of Vitamin E, is an essential fat-soluble nutrient. It helps to support the immune system, cellular function, and skin health. It’s also a known antioxidant with potent anti-inflammatory benefits. It can strengthen the skin barrier against sun damage, and is also popular as a treatment for minimizing the appearance of stretch marks and scars.
On the other hand, tocopheryl acetate is a synthetic version of Vitamin E. This derivative is known for its antioxidant properties and skin conditioning effects. But these aren’t the only reasons we love Vitamin E. It is an extremely versatile ingredient that you will find in everything from lip gloss to hair conditioners. In this blog, we will get to know about the skin healing properties of Vitamin E through tocopherol and tocopheryl acetate derivatives.
Tocopherol vs Tocopheryl Acetate – The Many Faces of Vitamin E
In the world of skincare, you might have noticed that can take on a variety of different names. Tocopherol is no exception – but why exactly do we call it tocopherol and not Vitamin E?
Vitamin E actually comes in several different forms. Most often, we are talking about fat soluble tocopherols. When it comes to skincare, there are two common types that you will see on an ingredient list: tocopherol and tocopheryl acetate.
While tocopherol is naturally occurring, tocopheryl acetate is a synthetic compound made from the ester of tocopherol with an acetate group added. While this additional acetate may make it more stable, some may argue that this makes it less bioavailable to the skin and potentially not as beneficial. There are still many studies that credit tocopherol acetate with being supremely beneficial when applied topically, for moisture retention and wound healing.
Tocopherol is an essential ingredient in many of our formulas, so we take pride in sourcing high quality forms of this vitamin. Many of our tocopherols are meticulously extracted from rice bran, which is also gluten-free.
Tocopherol for Skin
While its benefits certainly don’t stop with the skin, it’s definitely an area where tocopherol shines. Check out how Vitamin E can benefit your complexion.
Hydration
One of the most popular features of Vitamin E is its ability to moisturize and strengthen the skin barrier. It’s powerful antioxidant abilities make it a favorite ingredient for soothing inflammation and redness, whether as part of a soothing lip balm or a hydrating hand cream.
Due to tocopherol’s ability to alleviate dryness, redness, and flaking, it is often used to ease uncomfortable symptoms associated with eczema and psoriasis. While limited research has shown that tocopherol can indeed help with symptoms of psoriasis, it doesn’t necessarily tackle the root issue and isn’t recommended for those with severe cases of psoriasis.
Brightening
Whether its caused by scarring, hormones, or too much sun exposure, hyperpigmentation is a common concern. Many women turn to Vitamin E during pregnancy to reduce the appearance of stretch marks, while those experiencing weight gain or weight loss can also use a pure vitamin E oil for the same purpose.
Evidence suggests that tocopherol may help with hyperpigmentation in topical treatments, but only moderately so unless combined with Vitamin C. When we formulated our rejuvenating vitamin C serum, we made sure to keep these two allstar vitamins together! With added benefits from green apple, aloe vera, and alphalipoic acid, your skin will be more than happy with this glow-promoting formula.
Anti-Aging
Perhaps most notably, tocopherol is known for its wealth of antioxidants. Vitamin E’s antioxidant power is useful for lessening the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Some individuals report their skin feeling firmer after topical application, and more supple thanks to its aforementioned hydration benefits.
Tocopherol for Skin Resilience and Healing
Tocopherol doesn’t just enhance your skin’s appearance – it actively supports iits resilience and ability to heal. As an antioxidant, tocopherol neutralizes harmful free radicals, which can accelerate aging and damage skin to maintain its structural integrity, resulting in a smoother, firmer appearance over time.
Additionally, tocopherol aids in repairing micro-damage caused by daily wear and tear. From minor environmental stressors to irritation from harsh products, tocopherol helps to soothe and restore balance to compromised skin. Its ability to reduce inflammation further contributes to faster healing, making it a go-to ingredient for those with sensitive or stressed skin.
How to Maximize Skin Resilience with Tocopherol
Use tocopherol after sun exposure to reduce inflammation and support recovery from UV damage.
Pair tocopherol with ceramides or fatty acids for a comprehensive barrier-repair routine. Incorporate tocopherol-rich products into your routine consistently for long term improvement in skin health and texture.
FAQs about Vitamin E
Can tocopherol be used on all skin types?
Yes, tocopherol is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone skin. Its soothing and hydrating properties make it a versatile ingredient, but individuals with oily skin should opt for lightweight formulations to avoid clogging pores.
Is tocopherol safe for daily use?
Absolutely. Tocopherol is gentle and can be incorporated into your daily skincare routine. It works well in both morning and evening applications, though it is especially beneficial at night when the skin undergoes its natural repair processes.
Can tocoppherol help with scars and stretch marks?
Yes, tocopherol is known for its ability to improve the appearance of scars and stretch marks. Its antioxidant properties promote collagen production and support the skin’s healing process, leading to smoother, more even toned skin over time.
Does tocopherol work well with other ingredients?
Tocopherols pairs exceptionally well with other antioxidants like vitamin C, as the combination boosts their protective and brightening effects. Its also complements hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, enhancing overall skin hydration and resilience.
