What Is Topical Vitamin E?

Topical vitamin E refers to any topical form of this vitamin that may be directly applied to the surface of a body part. This vitamin actually encompasses a variety of substances and is more of a class than a specific chemical itself. It may come in liquid, pill, or gel forms among others. Cream and liquid are the most common forms of topical vitamin E; however, pills are sometimes taken apart, and the contents may be applied in a topical manner.

The benefits and necessities of vitamin E to human health are plentiful. These fat-soluble compounds, which include both tocopherols and tocotrienols, are found most commonly in the North American diet through the form y-tocopherol. Y-tocopheral exists in a number of foods, including a number of oils and dressings.

Physiologically speaking, topical vitamin E as well as other forms of these compounds, are most significant in their antioxidizing roles. This basically refers to their action of neutralizing free radicals, or oxidants. Free radicals are chemicals whose particular charges affect the body, usually in a negative way. Free radicals are a hypothesized common cause of many cancers, and antioxidants are thought to counterbalance these chemicals and, in doing so, restore a more homeostatic environment.

The recommended intake of topical vitamin E varies from that of oral methods. This is due to absorptive differences between ingested and topical methods. The suggested daily value of vitamin E increases with age, ranging from 4 to 15 mg per day from birth until adulthood. Overconsumption or deficiencies of oral and topical vitamin E, although unusual, can cause a plethora of undesirable health issues. For this reason, it is obviously important to manage different vitamin levels so that health is maintained.

Sources of vitamin E may be found in foods such as tomatoes, pumpkins, and sweet potatoes. There are additionally a number of other vitamin E-rich foods, and complete lists can be found in nutritional magazines and websites. The immune system, communication between cells, and genetic expression are all thought to be affected by vitamin E. There is also evidence supporting its utilization in a number of metabolic processes as well.

Frequently, topical vitamin E is used as a treatment for a number of skin ailments. It has been known to benefit damaged skin as well as mask the appearance of blemishes. The antioxidant characteristics are thought to help restore damaged skin cells and promote the healthy growth of new skin.