INCI: Tocopherol
Fat-soluble antioxidant and primary lipid antioxidant of the stratum corneum. Stabilizes cell membranes and enhances photoprotection when combined with vitamin C.
Topical application
BLimited evidence. One RCT or several controlled studies with limitations.
Antioxidant potential is well established in vitro. Clinical evidence for standalone anti-aging efficacy is limited. The best-studied aspect is synergy with vitamin C and ferulic acid, which enhances formula stability and photoprotective properties.
Tocopherol (vitamin E) is a fat-soluble vitamin and the primary lipid antioxidant of the stratum corneum. It exists in eight natural forms: four tocopherols and four tocotrienols. In cosmetics α-tocopherol and mixed tocopherols are most common. Mechanism. Breaks chain reactions of lipid peroxidation in cell membranes. Protects sebum, ceramides, phospholipids from oxidation. Regenerated by vitamin C – synergistic effect in antioxidant formulas. Where applied. Serums, creams, oil blends (5-15 IU per g), sunscreens. Often combined with vit C (Skinceuticals CE Ferulic) and with retinoids to stabilise the formula. In Spain – Sesderma C-VIT, Mesoestetic, Endocare C20 Proteoglicanos. Evidence base. Lin 2003 RCT showed that the combination of 15% vit C + 1% vit E + 0.5% ferulic acid boosts photoprotection 4-8 fold over individual antioxidants. Reduces thymine dimers after UV exposure (Burke 2000). Does not replace sunscreen but complements it. Safety. CIR confirmed safety up to 5%. In some patients it causes contact dermatitis – the most frequent allergen among cosmetic vitamins (1-2% of patch tests positive). Non-comedogenic. Pregnancy and lactation – safe. Applicable at any stage and on any area. Suitable for. Dry and mature skin, photodamaged skin, post-procedure, as part of antioxidant 'cocktails'. Not for patients with confirmed vit E allergy.
Irritation potential
LowAllergen risk
ModeratePregnancy
SafeSuitable for
Works well with
Ferulic AcidФеруловая кислота
In the C + E + ferulic trio, ferulic acid traps free radicals that C and E don't catch alone. This triad is the gold standard of daytime antioxidant care.
L-Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C)L-Аскорбиновая кислота (витамин C)
Classic pair: vitamin E stabilizes ascorbic acid and enhances photoprotection. Lin 2003 showed 4-fold UVB protection boost when combined.
The Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to Wildberries, Goldapple, Letu, iHerb, Sephora and 12 more stores. This ingredient and every other one in the product show evidence-tier, allergen risk and pregnancy/lactation flags at a glance.
Tocopherol (Vitamin E) is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
Tocopherol (Vitamin E) suits: dry, normal, sensitive.
Fat-soluble antioxidant and primary lipid antioxidant of the stratum corneum.
The INCI name is Tocopherol. It may also appear as: Vitamin E, d-Alpha Tocopherol, DL-Alpha Tocopherol.
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