Skin Benefits Of Vitamin E

Skin Benefits of Vitamin E

Oct 27, 2009 | By Amy Hunter

Vitamin E oil provides a variety of benefits to the skin. Skin improvements are noticeable when taking the vitamin E oil orally or when applied topically to the skin. Vitamin E is present in many foods and most people get an adequate amount in their diet, but supplementing may still provide benefits. People with Crohn's disease, cystic fibrosis or other disorders that may prevent the digestive system from adequately absorbing fat may develop clinical vitamin E deficiencies because vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin. For healthy individuals, the benefits of vitamin E supplements are in aging and sun protection.

General Appearance

According to the book "Cosmeceuticals: Drugs Vs. Cosmetics," topical application of vitamin E oil may smooth the skin's texture and reduce roughness.

Protection From the Sun

The University of Maryland Medical Center states that topical application of vitamin E oil may reduce the incidences of skin cancer that develops because of sun exposure. They also report that oral vitamin E supplements, combined with oral vitamin C supplements, may provide the skin with extra protection from sunburn. The protection is helpful, but does not take the place of sunscreen.

Signs of Aging

The University of Maryland Medical Center also reports that the topical application of vitamin E oil may reduce the length and depth of lines and wrinkles on the skin.

Scarring?

Many people apply vitamin E oil to new scars and burns with the belief that the oil will help reduce scarring. Two studies, one published in the Journal of Burn Care and Rehabilitation and the other conducted by the University of Miami and reported in the New York Times, reports that vitamin E oil does not reduce the appearance of scars. In fact, according to the University of Miami study, vitamin E oil may worsen scarring in some people because they may develop an allergy to the topical application of vitamin E oil to the damaged area.