Natural vs Synthetic Vitamin E: Which is Best for Your Skin and Health
- Marcelline Goyen
- Apr 22
- 5 min read
Vitamin E is a popular ingredient in skincare products and dietary supplements, praised for its antioxidant properties and skin benefits. Yet, not all vitamin E is the same. There are natural and synthetic forms, each with different effects on the body and skin. Understanding these differences can help you make informed choices about what you put on your skin and into your body.
Table of Contents
What is Vitamin E (Tocopherol)?
Vitamin E (tocopherol) is not a single compound but a family of fat-soluble antioxidants. These antioxidants protect cells from damage caused by free radicals, unstable molecules that can harm skin and internal tissues. Vitamin E supports immune function, skin health, and cellular repair.
Our skin also uses vitamin E to protect against oxidative stress. Vitamin E is therefore also found in our sebum. In the case of acne, increased oxidative stress occurs, which can lead to a vitamin E deficiency; see my blog about this.
In nature, vitamin E exists in eight forms: four tocopherols and four tocotrienols. These forms differ slightly in chemical structure but work together to provide broad antioxidant protection.
Natural and Synthetic Vitamin E for the Skin
Vitamin E (tocopherol) consists of natural variants and is also produced synthetically, and both forms are used in skincare products and supplements, but they differ in effectiveness. I will go into this in more detail below.
Natural Vitamin E: Tocopherols and Tocotrienols
Natural vitamin E includes:
Tocopherols: Alpha (α), Beta (β), Gamma (γ), Delta (δ)
Tocotrienols: Alpha (α), Beta (β), Gamma (γ), Delta (δ)
Each form has unique properties. Alpha-tocopherol is the most common and the form the body absorbs best. Gamma-tocopherol has distinct anti-inflammatory effects, while tocotrienols show stronger benefits for lipid metabolism and cellular protection.
The natural form of alpha-tocopherol is called RRR-α-tocopherol which occurs in human breast milk. This form is fully biologically active, meaning the body can use it efficiently. Natural vitamin E is absorbed better, stays longer in the body, and offers a broader range of benefits than synthetic forms.
Tocotrienols, often overlooked, have shown promising effects on skin health and cardiovascular protection. They help reduce oxidative stress and support healthy cholesterol levels.
Natural vitamin E in nature and supplements
Food: Natural vitamin E comes from whole foods like nuts, seeds, vegetable oils, and green leafy vegetables. These foods contain a mix of all eight forms of vitamin E, which work together to provide comprehensive antioxidant support.
Supplements: Vitamin E is also used in supplements, both in capsules and in dropper bottles with liquid oil (for oral or local use). Note the name of the vitamin E variant: The natural vitamin E (d‑alpha‑tocopherol) or the Synthetic variant (dl‑alpha‑tocopherol or just tocopherol).
Synthetic Vitamin E: All-rac-α-tocopherol
Synthetic vitamin E is commonly labeled as all-rac-α-tocopherol (formerly dl-α-tocopherol). It is made in a lab and consists of a mixture of eight stereoisomers, but only one of these is fully active (RRR-α-tocopherol). The rest have lower or no biological activity. Sciencedirect
Because of this, synthetic vitamin E is less potent. The body breaks it down faster, and it raises blood levels of vitamin E less effectively. Many supplements and skincare products use synthetic vitamin E because it is cheaper to produce.
Note: When skincare products and supplements state that they contain 'tocopherol' or 'vitamin E', it usually refers to the synthetic form of vitamin E and not the natural variant that is better absorbed, such as alpha-tocopherol.
How Vitamin E Works in Skincare
Vitamin E is a favorite ingredient in skincare because it:
Protects skin cells from oxidative damage caused by UV rays and pollution.
Supports skin barrier repair and hydration.
Reduces inflammation and redness.
Helps fade scars and hyperpigmentation.
Natural vitamin E, with its full spectrum of tocopherols and tocotrienols, offers more comprehensive protection. Tocotrienols, in particular, have been shown to penetrate the skin better and provide stronger antioxidant effects.
Synthetic vitamin E still offers antioxidant benefits but may not be as effective in protecting skin or supporting long-term skin health.
Benefits for the customer or for the manufacturer: a financial dilemma.
Unfortunately, manufacturers often choose the synthetic variant of vitamin E because it is cheaper. It is therefore up to you, the consumer, doctor, therapist, or advisor, to see through this and choose the natural variant in the future. So always read product labels critically.
Health Benefits and Risks of Natural vs Synthetic Vitamin E
Benefits of Natural Vitamin E
Better absorption and retention in the body.
Provides a full range of antioxidant compounds.
Supports skin, heart, and immune health more effectively.
Tocotrienols offer additional benefits for cholesterol and brain health.
Risks and Limitations of Synthetic Vitamin E
Lower biological activity means less antioxidant protection.
May interfere with the absorption of natural vitamin E forms if taken in high doses.
Some studies suggest synthetic vitamin E supplements do not provide the same cardiovascular benefits as natural forms.
Safety Considerations
Vitamin E is generally safe when used appropriately. High doses of synthetic vitamin E supplements may increase the risk of bleeding or interact with medications. Topical vitamin E is usually well tolerated but can cause irritation or allergic reactions in some people.
Choosing the Right Vitamin E for You
When selecting vitamin E products, consider:
Source: Look for natural vitamin E (often labeled as d-α-tocopherol or α-tocopherol) in supplements and skincare.
Formulation: Products with a mix of tocopherols and tocotrienols provide broader benefits.
Purpose: For skin, natural vitamin E offers better protection and repair. For supplements, natural forms support overall health more effectively.
Dosage: Avoid megadoses of synthetic vitamin E supplements without medical advice.
Whole foods rich in vitamin E remain the best way to get natural tocopherols and tocotrienols. Supplements can fill gaps but choose those with natural forms for maximum benefit.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can synthetic vitamin E harm my skin?
Synthetic vitamin E is not harmful in typical skincare use but may be less effective than natural vitamin E. Some people may experience irritation or allergies to certain formulations.
2. Why do some supplements use synthetic vitamin E?
Synthetic vitamin E is cheaper to produce and more stable in formulations. However, it is less biologically active than natural vitamin E.
3. Are tocotrienols important for skin health?
Yes, tocotrienols have stronger antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects than tocopherols and may improve skin elasticity and reduce signs of aging.
4. How can I tell if a product contains natural vitamin E?
Look for "d-α-tocopherol" on ingredient labels. Synthetic vitamin E is usually labeled as "tocopherol' or "dl-α-tocopherol" or "all-rac-α-tocopherol."
Understanding the differences between natural and synthetic vitamin E helps you choose products that truly support your skin and overall health. Natural vitamin E offers a complex mix of antioxidants that work together to protect and repair, while synthetic forms provide a less effective, single compound. Prioritize natural sources in your diet and skincare to get the most from this essential nutrient.
If you want to learn more about this and other vitamins important for the skin, and the role of sebum for our skin and microbiome, take a look at my book on the skin-gut axis. In it, I delve very broadly and also very deeply into the functioning of the skin and intestines.
Marcelline Goyen BSc Skin Therapy and author in the Netherlands
