In previous blogs we already talked about Vitamin A , vitamin B and Vitamin C and their benefits for you skin. In this blog we will take a closer look to vitamin E. Another interesting ingredient in skin care.
WHAT IS VITAMIN E & WHERE CAN YOU FIND?
Vitamin E is a naturally occurring vitamin and exist in eight chemical forms: (alpha-, beta-, gamma-, and delta-) tocopherol and (alpha-, beta-, gamma-, and delta-) tocotrienol . Alpha tocopherol is the most relevant form for the human body. The preferential distribution of alpha-tocopherol in the human body over the other forms of tocopherol is due to the faster metabolism and removal of the other forms. This essential nutrient occurs naturally in many foods. Some examples of vitamin E sources are:
Vegetable oils (sunflower, corn, and soybean oils)
Nuts (almonds, peanuts and hazelnuts)
Seeds (such as sunflower seeds)
Green leafy vegetables (such as spinach and broccoli)
DOES VITAMIN E HAVE BENEFITS FOR YOUR SKIN?
YES! Vitamin E is a powerfulantioxidant that may help to reduce free radical damage to the skin. By doing this, vitamin E can reduce damage to skin (photoprotective effects) and early signs of skin aging. Besides its antioxidant activity, vitamin E also has anti-inflammatory and hydrating effects on the skin.
Quick refresher: free radicals, oxidative stress and antioxidants
Free radicals are unstable and reactive atoms that can damage the cells in the human body. These unstable molecules are either derived from internal sources (normal essential metabolic processes in the human body) or from external sources (such as smoking , sun exposure , toxins or pollutants ). Free radicals damage DNA and cell proteins by altering their chemical structure. At the skin level, this damage is visible as fine lines and wrinkles, a dull complexion, pigmentation spots and the breakdown of essential proteins in the skin. Simply put - the typical signs of skin aging.
Free radicals are unstable and reactive atoms that can damage the cells in the human body. These unstable molecules are either derived from internal sources (normal essential metabolic processes in the human body) or from external sources (such as smoking , sun exposure , toxins or pollutants ). Free radicals damage DNA and cell proteins by altering their chemical structure. At the skin level, this damage is visible as fine lines and wrinkles, a dull complexion, pigmentation spots and the breakdown of essential proteins in the skin. Simply put - the typical signs of skin aging.
WHAT CAN NOME DO?
In case your own antioxidant-producing capacity is low, it may be important to add antioxidants ingredients to your skincare routine.
But how do you know if your antioxidant producing capacity is low? Well, at Nomige we can determine your genetic risk of low antioxidant protection by means of a DNA test.
By using a DNA kit , you can collect your own DNA at home.
Once we received your sample, and after your explicit permission we will investigate your DNA in a certified laboratory. We determine your genetic skin profile by investigating genes involved in the main skin properties & skin aging process (collagen, antioxidant and hydration). Of these genes, two genes which are involved in your antioxidant defense mechanism will be investigated, namely superoxide dismutase (SOD-2) and gluthathione peroxidase (GPX). By identifying the presence of mutations in these genes we can find out if you are at high risk of low antioxidant capacity or not.
TIPS FOR SELECTING SKINCARE PRODUCTS CONTAINING VITAMIN E
If you are convinced that your skin needs some extra vitamin E in the form of a skin care product, the following tips can certainly help you to select a good product.
Choose a product that contains both vitamin E and vitamin C . These are 2 antioxidants that are even more effective when used in combination (synergistic effect). A golden duet!
Vitamin E, like many ingredients, is not stable and sensitive to light and air exposure. It is therefore recommended to select a light and airless packaging, such as an airless pump
On a packaging you will mostly find the name 'tocopherol' instead of vitamin E. But remember, it is the same!
The most effective form of vitamin E is 'alpha-tocopherol'
Effective concentration: 1-5%
You can use it during the day, at night or both.
Want to know more about vitamins?
Vitamins are important for the human body and certainly for the skin. Therefore they are often used as ingredients in cosmetics.
