Vitamin E

Tocopherol represents different components of Vitamin E. These four forms are d-alpha tocopherol, d-alpha tocopheryl acetate, dl-alpha tocopherol, and dl-alpha tocopheryl acetate. The prefix “d” indicates that the product is derived from natural sources, such as vegetable oils or wheat germ, while the prefix “dl” indicates that the vitamin was created from a synthetic base.

Research has shown that natural forms of vitamin E are more effective than their synthetic counterparts, but both have antioxidant activity. You will most often find vitamin E listed as tocopherol or tocopheryl acetate in the ingredient list.

Vitamin E is a natural component of healthy skin and its second most common antioxidant after vitamin C. It offers important antioxidant properties to help defend against pollution and other environmental stressors.

In skincare formulas, vitamin E also functions as a good supporting ingredient. For example, in vitamin C products, vitamin E donates a key electron that ascorbic acid needs to stabilize. Vitamin E also works well with other antioxidants such as rosemary or ferulic acid. It can also visibly improve hyperpigmentation when used at a concentration of 1%.

Tocopherol used in skincare is often provided in oil form, as it is derived from sources such as soybean, rice, or flaxseed oils, among others. It has a golden yellow to light brown color and a subtle odor.