Vitamin E: which beneficial combinations of active ingredients exist?

Also called ascorbic acid, the vitamin C is a well-known active ingredient for its antioxidant properties. By donating an electron, this molecule can neutralise free radicals generated by UV radiation, pollution or tobacco smoke before they damage cellular components and DNA. However, bear in mind that this photoprotection does not make vitamin C a sunscreen in itself. Vitamin E, primarily located in the stratum corneum of the skin, has similar properties. It acts differently: its chemical structure allows it to donate a hydrogen atom, which stabilises free radicals. It then becomes a free radical itself, but is relatively stable due to its aromatic nature. Vitamin E, however, can no longer act.

Several studies have investigated the potential synergy between vitamin E and vitamin C, and the results show that their combination allows for enhanced antioxidant protection provided by these molecules. Indeed, vitamin C, which has a lower redox potential than vitamin E, can reduce the latter to regenerate its activity. It has also been shown that daily application for four days of a solution containing 15% vitamin C and 1% vitamin E doubles protection against actinic erythema compared with the use of either vitamin alone. It should be noted, however, that the aforementioned study was carried out in pigs. It would be valuable for clinical trials in humans to confirm these results.

From a mechanistic perspective, vitamins E and C work in tandem in the skin via a chain-based antioxidant mechanism.

Vitamin E, located in lipid membranes, is the first to neutralise the free radicals generated notably by UV radiation. In doing so, it is oxidised and becomes a less active radical form, known as the tocopheryl radical. This is where vitamin C comes in: present in the aqueous phase, it donates an electron to the tocopheryl radical, regenerating vitamin E in its active form while itself being oxidised to dehydroascorbic acid. This recycling allows vitamin E to continue protecting membrane lipids, while vitamin C can in turn be regenerated by other cellular reducing systems such as glutathione. Together, they thus form a complementary antioxidant system : vitamin E acts at the lipid level and vitamin C at the aqueous level, whilst prolonging the efficacy of vitamin E and reactivating it.

Better known as retinol, one of its derivatives, vitamin A is regarded as one of the most effective cosmetic active ingredients for stimulating cell renewal and offsetting the natural breakdown of collagen and elastin. It is therefore particularly used in formulations aimed at combating skin ageing and loss of firmness. However, vitamin A has two major drawbacks: it can be irritating, and is therefore not recommended for sensitive skin, and it is prone to oxidation by sunlight. Thus, following sun exposure, vitamin A can transform into various reactive intermediates that may cause skin damage.

Vitamin E, by virtue of its antioxidant power, could act as a cofactor to stabilise vitamin A and protect it from oxidation.

Another potential benefit of combining vitamin E and vitamin A: enhanced anti-inflammatory activity. Indeed, a study assessing the value of a topical co-administration of α-tocopherol (0.1%) and retinol (0.05%) in a microemulsion suggests this. Tested in vivo on skin rendered inflammatory by the application of TPA, an irritating compound, the vitamin E–loaded microemulsion led to a significant decrease in TNF-α expression, a marker of inflammation. The simultaneous addition of retinol enhanced this effect: TNF-α expression was reduced to a greater extent than in the group receiving vitamin E alone, demonstrating a synergistic effect between the two molecules. These results suggest that the topical combination of vitamin A and vitamin E may be of interest in alleviating skin inflammation.

Although it is inaccurate to describe vitamin E as a preservative, it nonetheless has a significant role in oil-based cosmetic formulations. Indeed, most plant oils are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, compounds whose chemical structure includes multiple double bonds. This characteristic makes them sensitive to oxidative degradation caused notably by atmospheric oxygen and UV radiation. Oxidation of vegetable oil constituents negatively affects their cosmetic and organoleptic properties. When rancid, they can become harmful to the skin, even comedogenic.

Thanks to its antioxidant properties, vitamin E can counteract this phenomenon and help to preserve the quality of vegetable oils. Vitamin E is thus relevant to use with vegetable oils rich in omega-3, such as alpha-linoleic acid. It similarly acts on sebum by preventing the lipid peroxidation of squalene, one of its major constituents. In doing so, it inhibits its transformation into squalene peroxide, a comedogenic molecule. The vitamin E is thus the ally of oily skin.

Note: For the same reasons, it is interesting to combine vitamin E and aloe vera, an ingredient with moisturizing properties. Indeed, aloe vera gel can become slightly yellow over time, due to its oxidation in contact with air. Vitamin E can help prevent this phenomenon thanks to its antioxidant action.

Selenium is an essential trace element for the human body. Primarily located in the kidneys and liver, research has shown that it stimulates immune activity and protects cardiovascular function. It is also a potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant. Especially present in raw vegetables, selenium can also be found in food supplements.

A study investigated the vitamin E/selenium combination and its effects on acne. Twenty-nine patients suffering from this skin condition were asked to take, twice daily, a tablet containing 0.2 mg of selenium and 10 mg of tocopherols for 12 weeks. At the end of the trial, the scientists observed a significant reduction in the number and extent of acne lesions in the patients, particularly in those with inflammatory acne. The chemical mechanisms explaining the synergy between vitamin E and selenium remain unknown.

A daily intake of selenium in excess of 900 μg can be toxic and lead to gastrointestinal disorders, hair loss and bad breath.

Coenzyme Q10, also known as ubiquinone, is an antioxidant naturally present in the body. Primarily located in the mitochondria, where it facilitates cellular energy production, it is also found in sebum, where it works synergistically with vitamin E to protect its components from oxidation. A study involving 100 volunteers showed that exposing sebum to UV irradiation equivalent to four times the minimal erythemal dose (MED)—the smallest amount of light capable of causing sunburn—reduced vitamin E levels by 84.2%, coenzyme Q10 by 70%, and squalene by only 13%. The same UV dose applied in the absence of vitamin E and CoQ10 led to a 90% reduction in squalene, clearly demonstrating the protective effect normally provided by these two molecules.

In addition to its sebum-protective effect, the vitamin E/coenzyme Q10 combination has shown some potential to improve the quality of life of individuals suffering from psoriasis. In a study, 58 patients were divided into two groups: the first received a corticosteroid-based treatment alongside a daily supplement of coenzyme Q10 (50 mg), vitamin E (50 mg) and selenium (48 μg), while the second received only the corticosteroids. After 35 days, a significantly greater improvement in the condition of patients in the first group was observed. It seems that the tested combination of active ingredients could offer real assistance in the daily management of psoriasis symptoms.

Zinc is a crucial element for the proper functioning of the body and the maintenance of healthy skin. Naturally present in small amounts within the body, zinc intake is mainly provided through the diet and sometimes via dietary supplements. In addition to supporting the development of body tissues, this element plays a role in the metabolism of certain proteins, lipids and carbohydrates. The zinc is also one of the most recommended actives for those with combination to oily skin, and it may help combat acne issues. A lesser-known protein, lactoferrin is one of the components of the immune system and it has a antimicrobial and antifungal activity.

In a recent study, 82 patients with acne received twice-daily capsules containing lactoferrin (100 mg), vitamin E (7.3 mg) and zinc (5 mg). After 12 weeks, the researchers observed a significant improvement in the patients’ skin condition, coupled with a reduction in sebum secretion rates. Supplementation with vitamin E, zinc and lactoferrin thus proved relatively effective, although the patients’ acne was not completely eradicated.

The association between vitamin E and vitamin D is founded on the complementarity of their biological mechanisms, particularly in the management of oxidative stress, inflammation and immunity. Vitamin D primarily acts by activating the vitamin D receptor (VDR), allowing the regulation of genes involved in cell differentiation, inflammation control, energy metabolism and immune modulation. Vitamin E, on the other hand, provides direct protection to cellular membranes through its antioxidant properties, thereby limiting damage caused by free radicals, which are involved in many chronic diseases. Combining these two vitamins could lead to better management of oxidative stress and more effective cellular protection.

The combination of vitamins D and E is widespread in dietary supplements but less so in cosmetics.

The collagen is an essential structural protein that ensures the firmness, strength and cohesion of skin tissues. When applied topically, its effect on fibroblasts – the cells that synthesise collagen – is limited because its bulky size impedes penetration, yet it still contributes to improving skin hydration. However, if they are peptides of collagen, molecules with a lower molecular weight, studies have shown they can stimulate fibroblast activity.

Although no study has investigated the combination of vitamin E and topical collagen, their respective mechanisms suggest potential interest.

Indeed, the antioxidant properties of vitamin E help protect the skin’s collagen fibres. A recent study in rats also demonstrated that the topical application of alpha-tocopherol, the active form of vitamin E, increased collagen density in the early phase of healing. The researchers observed a significant rise in fibroblast numbers and an improvement in the collagen density score in treated animals, compared to placebo. While these results derive from an animal model, they nevertheless reinforce the idea that vitamin E can modulate collagen dynamics and that combining it with collagen-based treatments might be beneficial.

The hyaluronic acid is a molecule naturally present in the skin, capable of retaining up to 1,000 times its weight in water. When applied topically, it helps to maintain skin hydration, enhances skin suppleness and contributes to smoothing wrinkles and fine lines. Combining hyaluronic acid with vitamin E can thus be relevant, as one acts on hydration while the other protects the skin from oxidative stress.

This potential synergy could also be of interest in the context of cutaneous wound healing. A study evaluated a formulation containing hyaluronic acid, vitamin E and raspberry and green tea extracts, in order to examine its impact on tissue repair. In an in vitro conducted on human fibroblasts, the preparation significantly outperformed the control formulation, which did not include the actives. These results suggest that hyaluronic acid, particularly in its low molecular weight form, capable of penetrating the stratum corneum, combines its hydrating effect with that of vitamin E and other antioxidants to accelerate re-epithelialisation, stimulate keratinocyte migration and contribute to collagen remodelling, thereby enhancing the process of healing.

The association between vitamin E and vitamin K is extensively studied due to their shared metabolic pathways and potential interactions, particularly regarding vitamin K's role in blood coagulation. Vitamin E may interfere with vitamin K activity by competing for certain enzymes involved in converting phylloquinone (vitamin K1) into menaquinone-4 (MK-4), the active form in tissues. They also share similar metabolic mechanisms and both can activate the pregnane X receptor (PXR), which regulates their metabolism and elimination. This is precisely why high intakes of vitamin E can sometimes reduce the availability of vitamin K and increase the risk of bleeding, hence the value of their combined use in supplementation.

Since 4 February 2009, the use of pure vitamin K1 has been prohibited in cosmetics due to reported cases of contact dermatitis. It is now used in its oxidised form, which is more stable and better tolerated, and is sometimes combined with vitamin E, although this topical combination has yet to be investigated in independent clinical studies.

Some people assume that combining vitamin E and glycerine could help to alleviate hyperpigmentation. However, if studies in vitro do indeed suggest that vitamin E can interfere with melanogenesis, whereas glycerine shows no effect on pigmentation. In formulation, glycerine enhances the stability of vitamin E by modulating the physical structure of emulsions. For example, research shows that high concentrations of glycerine (40–50%) yield smaller, more stable vitamin E acetate nanoemulsions, optimising antioxidant protection and extending product shelf life.

The combination of vitamin E and glycerine is thus entirely compatible and beneficial for enhancing the skin’s hydration and antioxidant protection.

The association between vitamin E and niacinamide is highly pertinent, as these two active ingredients act on complementary dimensions of skin health. Vitamin E supports antioxidant defences, while niacinamide strengthens the skin barrier, enhances hydration and mitigates inflammation. It is therefore common to find them in formulations targeting a dull complexion or a compromised skin barrier, often alongside other actives such as hyaluronic acid.

A study clearly illustrates this synergy in a formulation containing 4% niacinamide, 0.2% vitamin E, 0.4% hyaluronic acid and 5% lysed extract of Vitreoscilla filiformis, a probiotic, and 80% thermal water. Tested in various ex vivo and in vivo, this treatment enabled improvement of the skin barrier function after various stressors: sudden temperature shifts, irritations or sleep deprivation. In a study involving 22 women, it significantly accelerated recovery of the skin barrier, reducing water loss to 20.3% compared with 31.7% in the untreated area after five days. In sleep-deprived participants, a single application enhanced the skin’s natural recovery by 69.5% after one hour.

These results highlight the benefit of combining niacinamide with vitamin E to strengthen the skin barrier and help the skin withstand everyday environmental challenges.

The association between vitamin E and the panthenol, also known as provitamin B5, is commonly used in cosmetics because their actions complement each other. As previously mentioned, vitamin E provides antioxidant defence, while panthenol acts as a humectant and strengthens the skin’s barrier function while soothing the skin. A clinical study involving 246 women with hyperpigmentation provides additional data on the benefit of combining panthenol with vitamin E. Over a 10-week period, participants applied daily either a lotion containing niacinamide, panthenol and tocopheryl acetate or a control lotion. Image analyses showed that the test lotion significantly reduced the appearance of hyperpigmentation and improved the evenness of skin tone, with results observable as early as six weeks.

Note : It is likely that niacinamide, with its depigmenting properties, contributed to the favourable results observed.

Note : There are several forms of vitamin E, namely four tocopherols and four tocotrienols. It is therefore possible to blend tocopherols and tocotrienols, thereby combining different forms of vitamin E for more comprehensive antioxidant protection.

• MICHAËLSSON G. & EDQVIST L. Erythrocyte glutathione peroxidase activity in acne vulgaris and the effect of selenium and vitamin E treatment. Acta Dermato-Venereologica (1984).

• LITTARRU G. & al. Lipophilic antioxidants in human sebum and aging. Free Radical Research (2002).

• SHEA C. R. & al. UV photoprotection by combination topical antioxidants vitamin C and vitamin E. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology (2003).

• BURKE K. E. Interaction of vitamins C and E as better cosmeceuticals. Dermatology and Therapy (2007).

• TRABER M. G. Vitamin E and K interactions – A 50-year-old problem. Nutrition Reviews (2008).

• KORKINA L. & al. Clinical and biochemical effects of coenzyme Q10, vitamin E, and selenium supplementation to psoriasis patients. Nutrition (2009).

• MARMOR M. J. & al. The effects of a daily facial lotion containing vitamins B3 and E and provitamin B5 on the facial skin of Indian women: A randomized, double-blind trial. Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology (2010).

• MCCLEMENTS D. J. & al. Effect of glycerol on formation, stability, and properties of vitamin-E enriched nanoemulsions produced using spontaneous emulsification. Journal of Colloid and Interface Science (2013).

• KIMBERLY CO J. & al. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial to determine the efficacy and safety of lactoferrin with vitamin E and zinc as an oral therapy for mild to moderate acne vulgaris. International Journal of Dermatology (2017).

• KAKZOR J. J. & al. Mechanisms of vitamin D on skeletal muscle function: Oxidative stress, energy metabolism and anabolic state. European Journal of Applied Physiology (2019).

• BADRA BENTLEY M. V. & al. Microemulsion co-delivering vitamin A and vitamin E as a new platform for topical treatment of acute skin inflammation. Materials Science and Engineering (2020).

• BORZACCHIELLO A. & al. Natural formulations provide antioxidant complement to hyaluronic acid-based topical applications used in wound healing. Polymers (2020).

• NIELSEN M. & al. A dermocosmetic formulation containing Vichy volcanic mineralizing water, Vitreoscilla filiformis extract, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and vitamin E regenerates and repairs acutely stressed skin. Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology (2022).

• BABUCCAR J. & al. Topical vitamin E (alpha-tocopherol) from red palm oil (Elaeis guineensis) improved full-thickness wound healing in male Wistar rats (Rattus norvegicus). Biomolecular and Health Science Journal (2025).