Vitamin E describes a group of eight fat-soluble compounds with significant antioxidant properties. These antioxidants help neutralize unstable oxygen molecules in the body that cause damage to healthy tissues, particularly skin tissues. Vitamin E is found naturally in many foods, including wheat germ, sunflower seeds, almonds, spinach, blueberries and olives. The vitamin is also available in supplement form, however, TheWorldsHealthiestFoods.com warns to use these supplements with caution. Vitamin E supplements can be toxic when taken in high doses. Consult your physician before beginning a to take vitamin E supplements.
Protects Against UV Radiation
Ultraviolet radiation is an invisible ray of light emitted by the sun. When unprotected human skin is exposed to UV light, the rays deeply penetrate the epidermis, causing sunburn, damage to skin's cellular DNA, and possibly initiating the development of skin cancer. According to TheWorldsHealthiestFoods.com, numerous studies have shown that vitamin E can help prevent the damaging effects of UV on the skin by acting as a "lightening rod." That is, when the UV light penetrates the skin, it hits the vitamin E molecule without causing any damage. According to Healthy-Skincare.com, vitamin E lotions increase the effectiveness of sunscreen and should be applied 20 minutes before entering the sun to allow time for the vitamin to be fully absorbed. Note that Vitamin E should not be used as a substitute to sunscreen, but for supplemental protection.
Fights Signs of Aging
Premature wrinkles, sagging skin and the development of fine lines, occur when free radicals, unstable oxygen molecules, attack the protein fibers that keep skin firm, smooth and supple. According to the National Institutes of Health's Office of Dietary Supplements, the antioxidants in vitamin E help stop the production of free radicals and appear to defuse the effect of existing ones. In addition to avoiding free-radical-causing elements, UV light, pollution and cigarette smoke, vitamin E taken orally or applied topically may prevent and reduce signs of aging skin, although this has not been scientifically proven.
Improves Skin Conditions
Vitamin E is also believed to improve such skin conditions as sunburn, psoriasis and other inflammatory skin disorders. When you are affected by one of these conditions, Healthy-Skincare.com recommends applying vitamin E oil or lotion to find relief for itchy or tender skin. The emollient is soothing and allows the compounds in vitamin E to penetrate the skin to repair damaged cells. Again, however, the effectiveness of vitamin E in this regard has not been scientifically verified.
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