Why vitamin E should be part of your skincare regime

TikTok-ers are posting videos on how to get the look, by using Nivea Creme and a vitamin E oil capsule. Simply mix it together, smother all over your face and glass skin can be yours.

But not all experts believe it’s a good idea, and if you’re worried you may end up looking sweaty rather than dewy, you can reap the benefits simply by investing in products that already contain vitamin E. After all, it’s gorgeously good for all skin types.

“Vitamin E is an important fat-soluble antioxidant and has been used in dermatology for more than 50 years,” says Molly Arnold, a registered associate nutritionist at Holland & Barrett. “It can help protect from negative effects of oxidative stress caused by UV exposure and pollution.”

Sounds great. But perhaps more importantly, she notes vitamin E may also help to reduce blemishes and the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles when incorporated into a skincare routine.

Vitamin E is frequently praised for its moisturising, soothing and anti-ageing properties.

“Vitamin E is often found in a cream or oil format that can be used topically, either on the face or on the body,” says Dr Eleanor Bradley, No7 Beauty science credentialing manager. “You can find vitamin E infused in face moisturisers or serums, or in more concentrated ampules often in combination with other antioxidant vitamins, like vitamin C.

“My suggestion would be to incorporate a moisturiser or serum containing vitamin E into your morning skincare routine, to enjoy the full benefits of this ingredient, including protection against free radicals and the environment.”

When it comes to pollution, living in an urban environment can lead to dryness, irritation, sensitivity and even hyperpigmentation, notes Dr Ifeoma Ejikeme, medical consultant skin expert and founder of Adonia Medical Clinic. “In a study from Westfield’s How We Shop platform, 54% of those interviewed experienced dryness and 82% of those interviewed were concerned about how pollution adds to this. Vitamin E is not only a powerful antioxidant, but also an effective moisturiser.”

You can find vitamin E in a wide range of skincare and make-up products, including moisturisers, serums, eye creams, lip balms, foundations, and even lipsticks. Ejikeme suggests looking for it listed as tocopherol or tocopheryl acetate in the ingredients.