Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin and antioxidant that guards bodily tissue from damage caused by free radicals, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC). Free radicals are unstable substances that accelerate aging and may promote conditions such as cancer and heart disease. People who are deficient in vitamin E may experience impaired vision and irregular eye movements. Improved skin and eye health are among the many benefits of vitamin E oil.
Burns
Minor burns may be treated with vitamin E oil, according to the UMMC. Minor or first-degree burns affect only the surface layer of the skin and may cause redness and pain. The recommended oral dosage to encourage healing is 400 to 800 IU per day. Vitamin E oil may be applied topically once the burn has healed.
Sun Protection
Some lotions that contain vitamin E may help prevent and treat sunburn. These skin products protect the outer layer of the skin, called the epidermis, from ultraviolet (UV) light damage. A Duke University study found that when topical vitamin E is combined with vitamin C, it may protect against skin cancer and photoaging caused by exposure to UV rays. The findings of the study were published in June 2003 in the "Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology."
Photodermatitis
Vitamin E oil may minimize the likelihood of developing an abnormal skin reaction to sunlight, or more specifically to ultraviolet (UV) rays, known as photodermatitis, according to the UMMC. Photodermatitis may cause skin to develop a rash, blisters or scaly patches. Taking vitamin E oil orally may decrease such sun sensitivity.
Vision Disorders
Taking 400 IU of vitamin E oil orally appears to work in conjunction with other antioxidants, including vitamin C and zinc, to prevent the onset of macular degeneration, according to the UMMC. Macular degeneration is a chronic eye disease marked by deterioration of tissue in the part of the eye that's responsible for central vision.
Vitamin E oil supplementation may also help improve the vision of people who suffer from uveitis, according to the UMMC. Uveitis is an inflammation of the middle layer of the eye.
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