Vitamin E Oil: Benefits, Risks, and Our Top Picks

Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin found in nuts, seeds, legumes, leafy plants and vegetable oils. Most people get all vitamin E through the diet, and only some use oral supplements, e.g., oils. Although more scientific evidence is necessary, vitamin E oil is often used topically on the skin, nails and hair for various benefits. 

It is included in beauty products to postpone the effects of ageing. Due to the many different types of vitamin E oils, it is necessary to look at the ingredient list to decide about the product. Continue reading the article to know more about its benefits, side effects and chosen products.

Benefits of vitamin E oil  

There are eight different compounds in the vitamin E family. They have different antioxidant activities and include, alpha, beta, gamma and delta tocotrienol and alpha, beta, gamma and delta tocopherol. Alpha-tocopherol meets human health demands and is the only recognised form.

Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant that reduces free radical-associated damage and lowers oxidative stress. It moisturises and nourishes the skin, boosts hair growth and protects the skin against ultraviolet radiation (UV rays). Some well-known benefits of vitamin E are; 

Better hair growth  

Vitamin E promotes hair growth and improves lustre and shine. Its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties moisturise the scalp and hair. A study by Professor LIm Beoy and colleagues at the Universiti Sains Malaysia noted a 34.5% increase in the hair count in the group supplemented with tocotrienol for eight months. 

Vitamin E & Skin 

Vitamin E is the most critical antioxidant the human skin has. Various skin moisturisers use it. The vitamin E content in the skin lasts for a variable time, and exposure to light rapidly oxidises it. The claimed benefits of vitamin E for the skin are, 

Lower sun damage 

Topical vitamin E application protects the skin from UV light and reduces facial lines, skin roughness, wrinkling and dehydration. Yet, it is not a sunscreen, and only small amounts of vitamin E are used with a moisturiser to rehydrate the skin. A combination of vitamins C & E offers more sun protection against UV light. 

Treatment of topical conditions, e.g., eczema 

Topical Vitamin E application is less common than the oral one for topical conditions, e.g., itchy and dry skin due to eczema. Yet, many people use it for eczema. Although more research is necessary, the current data suggests that topical vitamin E irritates the skin and causes eczema to flare up in people with this condition. 

Scars, stretch marks and dark spots 

The research suggests that topical vitamin E doesn't reduce the scars and stretch marks, and it causes a higher risk of contact dermatitis. However, applying a gel containing 0.1% vitamin E, 0.1% vitamin C, 0.1% retinol, and 2% phytonadione reduces dark circles under the eyes and dark spots in research in Japan. 

Nail improvement 

Oral vitamin E supplementation treats yellow nail syndrome (YNS), a less common disorder associated with painful leg and arm swelling and pulmonary infections. The dosage of even 1000-1200 IU/ day produced inconsistent results. The research links the antioxidant properties of vitamin E to this effect.

Wound healing 

Although more research is necessary on the healing power of vitamin E, many studies have found that an oral combination of vitamin C, zinc and vitamin E aids in wound healing.  

A large-scale review by Rachel Hobson at Cardiff University, UK, found a lack of knowledge on the issue and noted a need for further research. 

Side effects of vitamin 

E Vitamin E has questionable stability, and oxidation occurs after exposure to heat and light, impacting the effectiveness of the topical application. That's why it is mixed with various other ingredients for topical application. 

The side effects of topical application are allergic contact dermatitis, skin redness (erythema), skin irritation, rashes and redness. These side effects make it necessary to consult a healthcare provider before using it. 

Product’s Specifications 

Our chosen and handpicked vitamin E oils are;

A.C. Grace Company’s Unique E, Natural Vitamin E Oil

Price & availability: £47.90 (buy A.C. Grace Company’s Unique E, Natural Vitamin E Oil at Welzo)

Quantity: 1 fluid ounces

Dosage: 0.75ml

User reviews: 5/ 5 (based on 124 ratings at Welzo)

Why do we choose it?: Introducing Unique E, the natural Vitamin E oil from A.C. Grace Company. Each 0.75ml dose offers 700 mg of Mixed Tocopherol Vitamin E, an antioxidant vital for many tissues, especially heart muscles. Since 1962, Grace Company has been at the forefront of Vitamin E research and development and ensures the highest quality tocotrienol and tocopherol concentrates. 

Unique E is free from additives, fillers, colours, wheat, preservatives, gluten, and soy oil and adheres to nature's pure intentions. Trust Unique E for a high-quality, natural Vitamin E supplement and experience the benefits of a healthier life. 

Essican Purelife Vitamin E Oil

Price & availability:  £6.99 (buy Essican Pure Life Vitamin E Oil at Amazon UK)

Quantity: 50ml

Dosage: As per recommendations 

User reviews: 4.4/ 5 (based on 656 Amazon reviews)

Why do we choose it?: Essican Purelife Vitamin E Oil is a #1 Best Seller Vitamin E product. It is a 100% natural and potent antioxidant for hair, skin, and nails. Additionally, it is fragrance-free, vegan, hexane-free, cruelty-free, and non-GMO. It provides moisturization and softens and rejuvenates the skin. It’s suitable for all skin types. Similarly, it is an effective lip balm and face serum. This vitamin E oil promotes growth and ensures a balanced scalp, resulting in shinier, smoother, and breakage-resistant hair. 

Additionally, it conditions and strengthens nails, making them more resilient and healthier. It has a shelf life of 12 months and ensures lasting effectiveness and freshness. 

Fushi Really Good Vitamin E Oil

Price & availability: £13.33 (buy Fushi Really Good Vitamin E Oil at Amazon UK)

Quantity: 50ml

Dosage: As per recommendations

User reviews: 4.9/ 5 (based on 69 Amazon ratings)

Why do we choose it?: Fushi Good Vitamin E Skin Oil is a premium 50ml plant-based oil with 30,000 IU/G of Vitamin E. This oil is ideal for regenerating, soothing, and hydrating dry skin and addressing uneven skin tone, wrinkles, and scars. It has raspberry seed oil and tocopherols (Vitamin E) and is rich in essential fatty acids and carotenoids (Vitamin A). 

The oil enhances hydration, combats free radicals, supports tissue repair, and boosts skin elasticity by improving collagen production. This hypoallergenic, anti-inflammatory oil is made in the UK and is vegan. Available at £13.33, it offers effective skincare.

Sky Organics Organic Vitamin E Oil

Price & availability: £24.99 (buy Sky Organics Organic Vitamin E Oil at Amazon UK)

Quantity: 118ml

Dosage: As per recommendations

User reviews: 4.5/ 5 (based on 2,494 Amazon reviews)

Why do we choose it?: Sky Organics' Organic Vitamin E Oil is a top-rated moisturising treatment. It contains 36,000 IU of Vitamin E per bottle and is blended with rosehip, organic jojoba, and soybean oils to soften and nourish dry skin. Suitable for the body and face, it delivers lasting moisture and is added to moisturisers for an antioxidant boost. This Vitamin E oil supports an even-looking and youthful skin with its rich antioxidant properties. 

Responsibly sourced, it is 100% cruelty-free and vegan. The oil is ideal for different skin types and has a rose scent. It is not tested on animals and has organic and natural natural ingredients.

Kanzy JHair & Beauty Vitamin E Oil for Face & Skin

Price & availability: £9.99 (buy Kanzy JHair & Beauty Vitamin E Oil for Face & Skin at Amazon UK)

Quantity: 60ml

Dosage: As per recommendations

User reviews: 4.4/ 5 (based on 2,782 Amazon ratings)

Why do we choose it?: Kanzy Vitamin E Oil is a 100% natural, plant-based product, available in a 60ml bottle for £9.99. It features d-Alpha-tocopherol from wheat germ, enriched with safflower, sweet almond, apricot, argan, and avocado oils. Moreover, it addresses dry skin and hair issues, helping to reduce dark spots, wrinkles, and dark circles. It enhances brightness, improves skin elasticity, and minimises scars and uneven skin tones. For hair, it strengthens roots, supports growth, enhances shine and texture, and prevents breakage. 

The product is equally suitable for dry skin and has an avocado scent. The manufacturer prioritises customer satisfaction and quality and invites feedback from unsatisfied customers.

Ola Loko Vitamin E Oil Complex

Price & availability: £6.99 (buy Ola Loko Vitamin E Oil Complex at Amazon UK)

Quantity: 2 fluid ounces

Dosage: As per recommendations

User reviews: 4/ 4 (based on 502 reviews at Amazon UK)

Why do we choose it?: Ola Loko's Vitamin E Oil offers two fluid ounces of repair and intense hydration with a potent formulation designed for lasting results. It restores the skin's natural oils, locks in moisture, boosts skin's defences and ensures moisture retention. This oil offers antioxidant protection against oxidative damage, combating free radicals. It includes natural ingredients, e.g., jojoba seed oil, tocopheryl Acetate (32,000 IU), and macadamia seed oil. 

The product is cruelty-free, 100% vegan, and produced in a carbon-neutral environment, avoiding harmful ingredients, e.g., plastics, microbeads, petrolatum, and perfumes. Available for £9.99, it reduces wrinkles and improves overall hair, skin, and body hydration.

The Soapery 100% Natural Vitamin E Oil 

Price & availability: £13.90 (buy The Soapery 100% Natural Vitamin E Oil at Amazon UK)

Quantity: 100ml

Dosage: As per recommendations

User reviews: 4.6/ 5 (based on 244 Amazon reviews)

Why do we choose it?: The Soapery's Vitamin E Oil is a 100% natural product, available in a 100ml bottle for a reasonable price. Additionally, this oil is free from chemicals, fragrances, and other additives. Rich in d-Tocopherols, it has a thick, red consistency and is a powerful antioxidant. It is easily incorporated into skincare and hair treatment recipes to enhance antioxidant properties. 

A little goes a long way, making it a versatile addition to various beauty routines. This product is ranked #61 in Vitamin E on Amazon for its natural formulation.

JASON Moisturizing Vitamin E Body Oil

Price & availability:  $6.98 (buy JASON Moisturizing Vitamin E Body Oil at Amazon UK)

Quantity: 4 fluid ounces

Dosage: As per recommendations 

User reviews: 4.6/ 5 (based on thousands of Amazon reviews)

Why do we choose it?: JASON, derived from the Greek word for healer, emphasises full-body wellness with various gender-neutral personal care products. JASON Vitamin E 5,000 IU Moisturizing Body Oil, a four-fl oz product, offers a 38% discount from its list price of $11.18. This formula combines Vitamin E Oil with Apricot, Sunflower, Almond, Avocado, and Wheat Germ Oils to nourish dry spots, leaving skin moisturised and silky smooth. 

It is formulated without parabens, animal testing, sulphates, and petrolatum and is cruelty-free. Suitable for all skin types, it works on the face, body, and hands.

Frequently Asked Questions  

Who is at risk of developing vitamin E risks? 

People with a history of heart disease and diabetics need to avoid vitamin E, particularly at higher amounts of 400 IU/day. In diabetics, it increases the risk of heart disease. It is nevertheless safe for most people. 

Is taking vitamin E oil safe? 

Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin and builds up gradually in the skin layers and the overall body. To avoid disturbing the natural balance of oils and clogging skin pores, it is necessary to abstain from vitamin E treatment more than 1-2 times each week. 

What is the best way of using vitamin E oil? 

Massaging the vitamin E oil into the skin is the best way. Likewise, use vitamin E oil only at night as keeping it overnight retains most of its benefits. The other options include mixing vitamin E capsules into the creams and face masks. 

What is the difference between vitamin E oil and vitamin E? 

Vitamin E oil is a specialised product for the skin and is applied directly in contrast to oral vitamin E, a non-topical product mostly eaten. The concentration of both products is variable and varies between manufacturers. 

How is vitamin E for skin whitening? 

The dermatologists are advising the use of vitamin E topically for skin whitening. It is a fat-soluble antioxidant that reduces the damage due to free radicals and acts as a shield against the UV light of the sun. Moreover, it keeps the skin more radiant, hydrated and well-nourished. 

Which type of vitamin E offers the best results for the skin? 

There are many forms and types of vitamin E, but only one type, the tocopherol, is the most beneficial for the skin. It is an ingredient in most products and verified for human use. 

Bottom-line 

The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of vitamin E offer many benefits, as it protects the skin, moisturises it, improves its texture and hydration and has many anti-inflammatory properties to soothe the skin inflammation. It causes many side effects, e.g., allergic reactions and has the potential to exacerbate various existing skin conditions. 

While choosing vitamin E products, consider the added ingredients, concentration and purity. The top picks mentioned here are selected based on quality, expert recommendations, and user reviews to ensure safety and allow people to enjoy the benefits of vitamin E oil.

Don't hesitate to make an appointment with the Welzo general physicians in case of any health issues.