- Vitamin E plays a role in protecting skin cells from potentially dangerous elements that generate free radicals (molecules holding an unshared electron), by providing its own electron to the electron deficient free radical, to stabilize it. According to an article in the Skin Pharmacology and Physiology journal, "Oxidants and antioxidants play an important role in maintaining a balance between free radicals produced by metabolism or derived from environmental sources."
- The Online-Vitamins-Guide notes, how by combating free radicals and oxidation, vitamin E helps reduce the development and appearance of age spots, stretch marks, lines, wrinkles, scar tissue and skin inflammation.
- According to altMD, vitamin E helps skin stay hydrated by preserving its oil balance, increasing the skin's barrier function. Moreover, when applied topically, vitamin E is used as a naturopathic remedy for skin burns, scars and reducing the symptoms and irritations of skin conditions, such as cold sores, eczema, erythema, hemorrhoids, psoriasis, shingles and skin ulcers.
- Additionally, vitamin E serves as a regulator for the vitamin A; a central vitamin for skin care, and works alongside the circulatory system to support blood clotting and the skin's ability to heal, according to Online-Vitamins-Guide.
- The effectiveness of vitamin E is still being researched. The Mayo Clinic asserts that "Aside from the treatment of vitamin E deficiency (which is rare), there are no clearly proven medicinal uses of vitamin E supplementation beyond the recommended daily allowance."
