For the human body, protection against free radical damage comes in the form of powerful, natural antioxidants such as Vitamin E. The benefits to the skin and general health care of Vitamin E are numerous, and constantly being researched by health industry professionals. In terms of the skin, Vitamin E can help reduce signs of aging, protect against sun and pollutant damage, and have many other visible results.
The Sun & AgingThe blame for premature aging lies with the UVA rays produced by the sun. Ultraviolet radiation can penetrate the skin, breaking up molecules of oxygen and creating unstable free radicals. These toxic cells attack nearby cells, breaking them down into more and more free radicals, and a violent cycle of cell destruction results. Lipids, proteins, and DNA are all susceptible, leading to leathery looking skin that lacks collagen and elasticity (Vitamin and Supplement).
The visible results aren't pretty: wrinkles, age spots, and skin cancer. But the cure, Vitamin E, is very simple to obtain and use. The protective antioxidant barrier created by Vitamin E applied topically to the skin acts like an invisible bubble, where free radical cells are destroyed and deflected. The cycle never begins, therefore, the aging never results.
Finding Vitamin ELots of natural fruits and vegetables contain Vitamin E: nuts, seeds, vegetable and fish oils, whole grains (especially wheat germ), fortified cereals, and apricots (Rice). It can also be taken orally as a supplement, providing many internal health benefits.
Still, studies have shown that Vitamin E absorbs easily through the skin and should be applied topically for best protection from free radicals. Many skin care retailers now offer lotions, creams, and other skin care products enriched with Vitamin E.
Many Benefits to the SkinThrough its antioxidant properties, Vitamin E has many benefits to the skin, including:
- Anti-aging. It can reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, while counteracting future damage from free radicals.
- Sun burns. If applied 20 minutes before sun exposure, Vitamin E has been shown to reduce the damage done to the epidermis layer of skin from the early stages of UV damage (Healthy Skin). It can also increase the effectiveness of sunscreens.
- Skin diseases. Psoriasis and erythema (a skin inflammation) can be treated with Vitamin E.
- Scars. Many claim to have softened the appearance of scarring by applying Vitamin E.
- Cancer prevention. As mentioned, protecting from free radicals helps to protect the body from skin cancer.
- Stretch marks
- Age spot prevention.
- Balances skin's oil production during the cleansing process (Healthy Skin).
- Reduces water loss fromn the skin and strengthens the skin's natural moisture barrier (Healthy Skin).
References:
- Healthy Skin Care. "Benefits of Vitamin E." Healthy-skincare.com Retrieved November 9, 2009.
- Rice University. "Antioxidants and Free Radicals." Rice University. Retrieved November 5, 2009.
- The Vitamin and Supplement Guide. "Youthful Beauty That's More than Skin-Deep: Benefits of Vitamin E on Skin." The-Vitamin-and-Supplement-Guide.com Retrieved November 9, 2009.
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