Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant that can help reduce the damage done to cells by free radicals. Free radicals are harmful substances that can lead to cell death. You get free radicals from the food you eat as well as from outside pollutants. Vitamin E plays a role in red blood cell development and can help deter skin problems. It may be helpful when applied directly to the skin. You should consult your doctor before using any vitamin E supplements, however, to prevent abnormal reactions and overdosing.
Prevention
Photodermatitis is a condition that makes your skin abnormally sensitive to the ultraviolet rays of the sun. Exposure to UV rays can lead to red, cracked skin that becomes dry and burned. Vitamin E, taken in combination with the other powerful antioxidants in vitamin C, helps to reduce the reaction you get from sun exposure, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Although sunscreen and protective clothing are the best defense against the drying effects of the sun, additional protection from vitamin E may reduce the severity of your reactions when they do occur.
Diaper Rash Ointment
Vitamin E is combined with vitamins A and D to make a popular ointment used to treat baby diaper rash. According to Drugs.com, the formula seals the skin, keeping moisture on the surface. It also quickens the healing process. Use the diaper rash preparation after talking to your doctor to avoid any interactions. An allergic reaction to the cream can cause itching, pus and additional redness. The vitamin ointment also is used to treat minor cuts and abrasions on older children and adults.
Soothing
Vitamin E creams and lotions provide soothing relief to burned or cracked skin. They can help to smooth out rough, cracked spots on your skin as well, according to Dr. Anna Pere at Dermatology Consultants. A diet rich in foods high in vitamin E can help assist with the healing as well. Effective sources of vitamin E to speed up the healing of cracked, dry skin include asparagus, olives, nuts, seeds and spinach. Prescription-strength doses of vitamin E-enriched creams may be helpful to treat severe burns to promote quicker healing and offer soothing relief.
Warning
Topical vitamin E should not be applied to open wounds without strict supervision of a medical professional. If your skin is open and bleeding, you should wait until new skin begins to form and continue with vitamin E supplements and by increasing the amount of vitamin E you get in your diet. Tell your doctor if you are taking vitamin E supplements if you need surgery to repair your wound.
Member Comments