Vitamin E is added to beauty products and marketed as a way to postpone the effects of aging.

Vitamin E Compounds

Vitamin E encompasses eight fat-soluble compounds, each with distinct antioxidant activities.

Alpha-tocopherol (- tocopherol)is the only form recognized to meet human requirements.

A woman using vitamin E oil as a skin moisturizer

Ake Ngiamsanguan/ Getty Images

However, there is little research to support these benefits.

Pure vitamin E oil contains vitamin E only.

Vitamin E from natural sources is commonly listed as “d-alpha-tocopherol” on food packaging and supplement labels.

Melissa Nieves, LND, RD

Laboratory-made or synthetic versions are usually listed as “dl-alpha-tocopherol.”

Some people open vitamin E capsules and put them directly on their skin.

Vitamin E oil may also be added to soaps and beauty products like serums and shampoos.

Some people like making their own soaps, using essential oils, vitamin E, and other ingredients.

Vitamin E supplement compounds vary based on whether the product is natural or synthetic.

Mixed products may contain alpha-tocopherol, other tocopherols, and tocotrienols.

While naturally occurring vitamin E has only alpha-tocopherol, synthetically formed supplements may contain all eight compounds.

Skin Side Effects From Vitamin E Oil

The stability of vitamin E is often questionable.

Oxidation can occur after exposure to light and heat, which may impact the oil’s effectiveness.

This is one of the reasons it is often mixed with other ingredients.

Consume a diet rich in antioxidants and hydrating foods to support your skin and hair naturally.

Proper use can help you achieve results and prevent side effects.