Evidence supporting the use of: Vitamin E (beta tocotrienol)
For the health condition: Skin (dry and/or flaky)

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Vitamin E, including its beta-tocotrienol form, has been studied for its potential benefits to skin health, particularly for conditions such as dryness and flakiness. There is a scientific rationale for its use: Vitamin E is a fat-soluble antioxidant that helps protect cell membranes from oxidative damage, which may contribute to skin barrier integrity and moisture retention. Several in vitro and animal studies indicate that Vitamin E, when applied topically, can enhance skin hydration, reduce transepidermal water loss, and support the skin’s barrier function.

However, most of these studies have used alpha-tocopherol (the most common form of Vitamin E), with less direct research focusing specifically on beta-tocotrienol. Tocotrienols, including beta-tocotrienol, have shown antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties in laboratory settings, and limited small-scale human studies suggest they may support skin health.

Clinical evidence in humans for Vitamin E’s effectiveness in treating dry or flaky skin is limited and mixed. Some topical formulations containing Vitamin E (often as part of a blend) have shown modest improvements in skin hydration, but oral supplementation has not consistently demonstrated benefits for dry skin. Overall, while there is scientific plausibility and some supportive data, the evidence base—especially for beta-tocotrienol specifically—is not robust. The strength of evidence for using beta-tocotrienol to support or treat dry or flaky skin is therefore rated as 2 out of 5.

More about Vitamin E (beta tocotrienol)
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Products containing Vitamin E (beta tocotrienol)

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