The use of Vitamin E (mixed tocopherols) for age spots—also known as liver spots or solar lentigines—is primarily based on traditional and anecdotal use rather than strong scientific evidence. Historically, Vitamin E has been applied topically or taken orally for a wide range of skin conditions, owing to its antioxidant properties and perceived ability to promote skin healing and reduce hyperpigmentation. Many over-the-counter creams and oils for age spots include Vitamin E as a key ingredient, and its use is often recommended in popular literature and by alternative medicine practitioners.

However, scientific studies evaluating Vitamin E’s effectiveness specifically for the treatment of age spots are limited and generally inconclusive. While there is evidence that Vitamin E acts as an antioxidant and may help protect skin from oxidative stress caused by UV radiation—which is a contributing factor in the formation of age spots—there is little robust clinical research demonstrating that Vitamin E can significantly lighten existing age spots or prevent their development. A few small studies have examined combinations of Vitamin E with other antioxidants or skin-lightening agents, but these results cannot be attributed to Vitamin E alone.

In summary, the use of Vitamin E for age spots is largely traditional, with minimal direct scientific validation for this specific indication.