Evidence supporting the use of: Vitamin E (tocopheryl succinate)
For the health condition: Wrinkles

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Synopsis

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

Vitamin E (tocopheryl succinate) is commonly included in skincare products, including those marketed for anti-wrinkle benefits. Its use for this purpose is based on its role as a lipid-soluble antioxidant, which helps protect skin cells from oxidative damage induced by ultraviolet (UV) exposure and other environmental stressors. Laboratory and animal studies show that Vitamin E can reduce free radical damage and may help limit signs of photoaging, such as wrinkles. However, direct clinical evidence in humans for Vitamin E—specifically tocopheryl succinate—reducing wrinkles is limited and not robust.

Some small human studies suggest that topical Vitamin E, sometimes in combination with Vitamin C, may modestly improve skin texture and reduce wrinkle formation, largely due to its antioxidant properties and ability to enhance the skin's moisture barrier. However, results are mixed, and many studies use formulations with multiple active ingredients, making it difficult to attribute effects specifically to Vitamin E. Furthermore, the most commonly studied forms are tocopherol and tocopheryl acetate; evidence for tocopheryl succinate is even more limited.

In summary, the use of Vitamin E for wrinkle treatment or prevention is supported by a scientific rationale and some preliminary data, but high-quality, large-scale clinical trials are lacking. Therefore, scientific validation exists but is weak, and the evidence rating is 2 out of 5.

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Products containing Vitamin E (tocopheryl succinate)

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