Vitamin E Shines in Sun Care Study

An Italian study on antioxidants and skin care has found that UV-protective effects of vitamin E compounds may be superior to vitamin A.

Researchers at the University of Milan recruited 30 human subjects to receive extended UV light exposure on the buttocks and forearms-enough exposure to result in erythema (reddening of the skin).

When a skin lotion containing vitamin E (10% tocopherols and 0.3% tocotrienols) was applied to the skin, signs and symptoms of photodamage were reportedly reduced, compared to skin left untreated. Vitamin E lotion even outperformed a similar formulation containing retinol (vitamin A), an ingredient highly regarded in the dermatology field for UV-protective potential.

The results of the human trial support a potential for vitamin E in skin care formulations, said WH Leong, vice president of the vitamin E tocopherol and tocotrienol supplier Carotech Inc. (Edison, NJ).

“Research has shown that tocotrienols promote skin health in areas like anti-aging, anti-inflammation, anti-wrinkles, and more,” said Leong. “This human study further supports the use of tocotrienols especially in sun care/solaire formulations. Applying a tocotrienol cream derived from Tocomin natural full spectrum palm tocotrienol complex on the skin before sun exposure can help reduce the damaging effects of the sun’s UV rays.”