Tocopherol (Vitamin E)

Tocopherol is the most biologically active form of vitamin E and the skin’s primary lipid-soluble antioxidant. It protects cell membranes and sebum lipids from oxidative stress caused by UV radiation and pollution. Its most famous synergy is with vitamin C: ascorbic acid regenerates oxidised tocopherol, so the combination delivers significantly stronger photoprotection than either alone. Tocopherol also has moisturising and mild anti-inflammatory properties, supports barrier repair, and is used at 0.5–1% in serums, oils, and creams. It is well tolerated by most skin types, though very rarely sensitising in pure form — a reason it appears in ultra-rich repair creams for dry, stressed, and post-procedure skin.