Long-standing ingredient in skincare, vitamin E actually refers to a group of oil-soluble antioxidants, the most popular being tocopherol. This active ingredient combats damage caused by free radicals, prevents fine lines and wrinkles, hydrates the skin and evens out the complexion. It is also effective in soothing sunburn.
Can Vitamin E alleviate sunburn?
Summary
Published on April 27, 2022, updated on June 30, 2024, by Maylis, Chemical Engineer — 3 min of reading
Themes:
What is a sunburn from a dermatological perspective?
Also known as solar erythema, a sunburn refers to a first-degree burn of the skin by the UVB rays of the sun. This phenomenon usually occurs after prolonged exposure without sun protection. However, some people with sensitive and/or light skin, therefore lacking in melanin, can experience sunburn after just a few minutes of exposure. Sunburns are characterised by redness, sometimes sharp pain, and itching. In the most severe cases, blisters can even appear.
When exposed, to protect the skin, melanocytes produce melanin (the pigment responsible for the brown colour) which migrates to the surface of the epidermis and colours it: this is tanning. If the exposure is too long and/or the UVB rays too intense, the tan gives way to a sunburn.According to a study published about a decade ago, the biological process that occurs during the onset of a sunburn is of an inflammatory type. The sun's UVB rays damage microRNAs which, once released into the extracellular environment, stimulate pro-inflammatory cytokines. A chain reaction then triggers a sunburn on the skin surface.
4 minutes to understand your skin. Our dermatological diagnostic guides you toward the ideal skincare for your specific needs. Simple, quick, personalized.
Topical application of Vitamin E, what evidence is there of its effect on sunburn?
Vitamin E is primarily used in the design of skincare products to slow down the appearance of ageing signs, due to its antioxidant properties. Regarding its effect on sunburn, unfortunately, very few scientific studies have been conducted on this matter.
Researchers have demonstrated that a topical application of tocopheryl acetate on the skin of mice immediately after UVB exposure reduced the damage caused by sunburn: erythema, increased skin sensitivity and oedematous swelling. They also proved that the topical application of tocopheryl acetate led to an increase in the concentration of free tocopherol in the skin.
It's worth noting, beforehand, that vitamin E also provides photoprotection. Therefore, its application is relevant when combined with an SPF like our sun cream, before sun exposure to limit sunburn.
Sources
TREVITICK V. & al. Reduction of sunburn damage to skin by topical application of vitamin E acetate following exposure to ultraviolet B radiation: effect of delaying application or of reducing concentration of vitamin E acetate applied. Scanning Microscopy (1993).
KROL E. S. & al. Photoprotective actions of topically applied vitamin E. Drug Metabolism Reviews (2000).
Read more
Glycolic acid and dandruff: what are the effects?
6 min of readingDandruff is a persistent condition that affects nearly half the population worldwide. The presence of white or yellow flakes, together with itching and irritation, can be both uncomfortable and frustrating. Recently, glycolic acid, renowned for its use in skincare, has begun to attract attention for its potential role in dandruff management. Could this versatile alpha-hydroxy acid help alleviate the symptoms of dandruff? Let us explore its potential benefits and the scientific rationale underpinning them.
Eye Contour: Does Glycolic Acid Counteract Dark Circles?
6 min of readingDark circles under the eyes are a common cosmetic concern. Contributing factors include genetic predisposition, lifestyle choices, skin thinning and hyperpigmentation, all of which can alter the appearance of the under-eye area. A range of treatments exists, from topical agents to cosmetic procedures, with glycolic acid (GA) emerging as a popular chemical peel. But can GA effectively reduce dark circles? This article examines the scientific evidence on the use of glycolic acid for dark circles and its potential benefits.