Vitamin E has been used topically and as a dietary supplement for more than 25 years for various skin problems. Dr. Jens Thiele, of the Department of Dermatology at Northwestern University, reports that vitamin E has shown an ability to treat eczema, protect against sun damage and fight skin cancer. Other dermatological uses for vitamin E have not shown the same scientific evidence.
Claims
Vitamin E is commonly claimed to help minimize scar formation or aid in fading birthmarks. Dr. Thiele reports, however, that strong scientific evidence to support these claims are lacking. Vitamin E is required by the body in the healing process, yet may not be beneficial to supplement if the individual already has adequate amounts of vitamin E in the body. Additional vitamin E may be helpful in individuals with diseases such as diabetes, which can impair the body's natural ability to heal.
Forms of Vitamin E
There are cosmetic creams and lotions that contain vitamin E and are applied to the skin topically and dietary supplements that can be taken orally. It is not yet known what form, if either, works best in scar prevention or treatment of other skin conditions. Topical ointments and creams typically contain smaller amounts of vitamin E and the amount of vitamin E that can be absorbed into the skin is questionable. Research indicates that the best method for ensuring your body has enough vitamin E is to obtain it from food sources or in supplement form.
Eczema Treatment
Although vitamin E may provide only minimal aid in scar prevention, it has successfully helped other skin conditions. A study reported by the International Journal of Dermatology stated that vitamin E supplements reversed eczema almost completely, as well as decreased inflammation in research subjects by 65 percent compared to the placebo group.
Skin Cancer
Topical creams combining vitamin E with vitamin C appear to help prevent initiation and slow growth of melanoma, a type of skin cancer. Oral supplements of vitamin E and C also appear to enhance sunscreens' protective effects against UV exposure by providing an antioxidant barrier of skin internally. Preventing skin cancer will prevent the need for biopsies and removal of cancer that can leave a wake of scars behind.
Food Sources
Vitamin E is found in cereals, vegetable oils, almonds, peanut butter, avocado and other vegetables. Dietary sources of vitamin E also contain other vitamins and minerals that aid in overall health, making them preferable to vitamin E supplements.
Warning
Vitamin E supplements are not recommended if you are on blood thinners such as Warfarin, Coumadin or Heparin. Large oral doses of vitamin E in supplement form can be dangerous. Reports of sudden death and injury have been reported at doses of 400 IU or more daily. Focus instead on food sources of vitamin E to prevent this risk and always consult your physician before taking any over the counter supplements.
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