Antioxidant
Vitamin E
Also: Tocopherol · Tocopheryl Acetate
The oil-soluble antioxidant. Works alongside vitamin C against the free radicals UV and pollution generate.
What it is
A family of fat-soluble antioxidants. Tocopherol is the active form; tocopheryl acetate is a stable ester that converts on skin.
How it works
Neutralises lipid peroxidation — the chain reaction free radicals trigger in the cell membranes of your skin. Stabilises other antioxidants (vitamin C in particular) so the formula remains active longer in the bottle.
Who it is for
Everyone. Particularly important for daily SPF wearers (vitamin E + SPF together outperform SPF alone) and for anyone in high-pollution environments.
What to watch for
Some people are sensitive to vitamin E in leave-on products. If you flush after applying a product containing tocopherol, swap to a different antioxidant route.
Found in