Vitamin E was discovered in 1922, isolated in 1935 and first synthesized in 1938. Because the vitamin activity was first identified as essential for fertilized eggs to result in live births, it was given the name "tocopherol" from Greek words meaning birth and to bear or carry. Alpha-tocopherol, either naturally extracted from plant oils or, most commonly, as the synthetic tocopheryl acetate, is sold as a popular dietary supplement, either by itself or incorporated into a multivitamin product, and in cosmetics, oils or lotions for use on skin
Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin found in many vegetable oils. There have been several studies, carried out throughout the world, showing that vitamin E, especially when used in cosmetics such as lotions, creams and gels, has many beneficial properties for the skin, especially due to the antioxidants it contains.
Anti-aging Properties: Vitamin E, a powerful antioxidant counteracts the harmful effects caused by free radicals particularly aging. Vitamin E protects the fibroblasts; skin cells that produce collagen. Collagen is essential for maintaining healthy, firm and younger looking skin. Thus, Vitamin E helps in reducing sun-induced wrinkles and premature aging.
Fights Acne and Wrinkles:Intake of Vitamin E rich foods helps maintain the hormonal balance in adolescents, which can otherwise trigger the formation of acne. The anti-inflammatory properties of Vitamin E work as an excellent exfoliator and help remove acne scars.
Soothes Sunburn:Exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet rays produces free radicals. Topical application of Vitamin E enriched oils or lotions provides an effective remedy for treating sunburn peeling and blistering due to its antioxidant and moisturizing properties. In fact, the Skin Cancer Foundation recommends using a moisturizer or gel containing Vitamin E after a sunburn to alleviate skin damage. The antioxidant properties of Vitamin E can reverse the damage caused by UV rays.
Fades Scars and Stretch Marks:Vitamin E minimizes scarring and stretch marks since it promotes healthy cell regeneration and moisturizes the skin. Topical application of Vitamin E oil promotes healing of damaged skin cells as well as reducing redness and inflammation and fades away all types of scars by promoting tissue repair.
Treats Hyperpigmentation: Hyperpigmentation is the appearance of dark or discolored spots on the skin due to an improper production of melanin in the body. Vitamin E aids in the absorption of Vitamin A found in the form of retinoids in skin lightening products, which plays a vital role in lightening the skin tone. Without Vitamin E, Vitamin A cannot be absorbed by the skin. Vitamin E rejuvenates the skin and gives it a healthy glow.
Softens Dry Hands and Skin:The natural moisturizing properties of Vitamin E help retain moisture by forming a protective layer over the skin and keep the skin soft and supple by preventing cracking of the skin. For softening dry hands, mix the juice of one lemon and a teaspoon of honey with lukewarm water in a bowl. Add 2 Vitamin E capsules and soak your hands for 10-15 minutes.
Vitamin A and E for the face
You will often see these two vitamins together in various cosmetics. They are a powerful antioxidant combination and are often chosen in anti-aging creams. You will usually find them in night care products as vitamin A, also known as retinol, is applied in the evening.