ALL ABOUT LIQUID VITAMIN E

IN ESSENCE...

• “The Skin Vitamin,” better known as Liquid Vitamin E, is an antioxidant and a nutrient that is best known for maintaining skin health and for strengthening immunity.


• Although Vitamin E is often understood to be one specific vitamin, it encompasses a group of other antioxidant vitamins that are fat-soluble, and its numerous natural forms are referred to as Tocopherols.


• Used topically, Liquid Vitamin E nourishes and promotes the growth of new skin and hair. By soothing and preventing dryness, itching, flaking, and burning, it promotes the look of a youthful, radiant complexion as well as healthier and more lustrous strands.


• Used in massages, Vitamin E is believed to be applicable for boosting energy and stamina, strengthening muscles, promoting the repair of muscles that have been damaged by exercise, facilitating healing, and possibly reducing the appearance of scars.


• Used medicinally, Liquid Vitamin E is ideal for those who prefer not to apply harsh prescription medications to address skin conditions characterized by itchiness, inflammation, blisters, and scaly patches of skin.

HISTORY OF LIQUID VITAMIN E USAGE

Liquid Vitamin E – sometimes referred to as “The Skin Vitamin” – is an antioxidant as well as a nutrient that is vital for maintaining the well-being of skin and hair. Foods such as vegetable oils, legumes, seafood, eggs, raw nuts and seeds, some fruits, cereals, wheat germ, leafy green vegetables, meat, and poultry abound in Vitamin E content, which is known to support the health and function of various body systems. As the main fat-soluble antioxidant in the human body, Vitamin E is best known for providing skin with nutrition and for strengthening immunity.

Vitamin E is reputed to eliminate the body’s free radicals, which are responsible for causing pre-mature aging as well as damage to the cells, among other conditions and complaints. It has been especially lauded for its ability to address scars, burns, and wounds, hence the reason it has been used as an antioxidant in skincare, especially in “anti-aging products,” for more than fifty years. Different from Vitamin E supplements, which are taken orally to address heart health, eye health, inflammation, and general immune function, Vitamin E Liquid is used on the skin after being added to moisturizers, such as creams, lotions, and ointments. When added to natural product formulations, Vitamin E also works as a stabilizer and has the potential to extend a product’s shelf life.

Vitamin E is often believed to refer to one specific vitamin; however, on the contrary, it encompasses a group of other antioxidant vitamins that are fat-soluble, and its numerous natural forms are referred to as Tocopherols, which is the only form that is known to satisfy human health needs. Vitamin E occurs in chemical forms as well, such as alpha-, beta-, gamma-, and delta- Tocopherol and as alpha-, beta-, gamma-, and delta- Tocotrienol, but most Vitamin E Liquid/Oil does not consist of all these forms.

Many carrier oils – including Almond, Apricot Kernel, Babassu, Canola, Corn, Flaxseed, Grapeseed, Hazelnut, Olive, Oat, Palm, Poppyseed, Rice Bran, Safflower, Soybean, Sunflower, and Wheat Germ – are also natural sources of a high Vitamin E content, making them suitable for use as Liquid Vitamin E substitute.

This article highlights the many benefits, properties, safe uses, and cautions for Liquid Vitamin E.

LIQUID VITAMIN E BENEFITS

Used cosmetically or topically in general, Vitamin E Liquid can be used to nourish and promote the growth of new skin and hair. With moisturizing properties, it is known to soothe and prevent skin that is dry and afflicted with itching, flaking, and burning. By keeping the skin hydrated, it is believed to help slow the look of wrinkles and thereby promote a youthful, radiant complexion. Its hydrating effect is also known to diminish the appearance of sagging or creping skin.

Used in massages, Vitamin E is believed to be applicable for boosting energy and stamina, strengthening muscles, and promoting the repair of muscles that have been damaged by exercise. Using Vitamin E to moisturize areas of skin that are affected by wounds or sunburns may potentially benefit the skin by facilitating healing and possibly reducing the appearance of scars.

Used medicinally, Vitamin E Liquid is reputed to be ideal for use by those who prefer not to apply harsh prescription medications to address skin conditions characterized by itchiness, inflammation, blisters, and scaly patches of skin, such as dermatitis, mild psoriasis, and eczema. When added to moisturizers, it is believed to increase their hydrating efficacy while easing the aforementioned symptoms.

As illustrated, Liquid Vitamin E is reputed to have many therapeutic properties. The following highlights its many benefits and the kinds of activity it is believed to show:

• COSMETIC: Antioxidant, Brightening, Smoothing, Regenerative, Reparative, Soothing, Skin-Strengthening, Stimulating, Moisturizing, Circulatory, Anti-Bacterial, Nourishing
• MEDICINAL: Cicatrizant, Regenerative, Reparative, Soothing, Skin-Strengthening, Stimulating, Circulatory, Anti-Inflammatory, Analgesic, Immune-Enhancing, Anti-Bacterial, Nourishing, Wound-Healing

LIQUID VITAMIN E USES

Used in cosmetic and topical applications, Liquid Vitamin E’s oil-soluble thickness makes it ideal for use at night before bed, as the skin tends to gradually become drier overnight. It is also a better idea to use it overnight, because during the day it can cause the complexion to become shiny and make it difficult to apply makeup. Restorative and revitalizing, Liquid Vitamin E makes an ideal substitute for a regular night cream. For a rejuvenating moisturizer blend, simply add 3 drops of Vitamin E Liquid to a preferred nighttime face cream or lotion and apply it to the preferred areas of skin to strengthen skin and prevent it from becoming dull, loose, and wrinkled.

Alternatively, an all-natural moisturizer can be made by diluting Vitamin E Liquid in Olive Carrier Oil. This blend is also known to improve the skin’s collagen production to maintain its resilience. Applying this blend as an overnight under-eye moisturizer prevents this area from thinning and from forming dark circles.

It is believed that a mixture of Vitamin E and Vitamin C has a natural sun-protective quality that prevents the body from the effects of environmental pollutants as well as from free radicals, which damage and mutate the cells, thereby causing the look of premature aging characterized by wrinkled skin. By calming inflammation and contributing moisture to dry and sensitive skin, this vitamin combination helps preserve the look of a rejuvenated complexion. For a night serum that is reputed to brighten the complexion, balance the skin tone, support collagen production and function, and address the effects of photoaging, begin by whisking the following ingredients together in a bowl: 1 tsp. GMO-free Vitamin C Powder and 1 tsp. filtered water. To this, add 1½ Tbsp. Aloe Vera Gel. Again, whisk all the ingredients together. Next, pour in ⅛ tsp. Vitamin E Liquid and 5 drops Frankincense Essential Oil and thoroughly combine all the ingredients. With the help of a funnel, pour the resultant blend into a small, darkly-colored bottle. To use this serum, apply it to the face at night before bed and rinse it off in the morning. Avoid using it in the sun, as it could potentially cause photosensitivity. It is suggested that this serum only be used on alternate nights in order to monitor the skin’s response to the new product. Results are reputed to be visible after a few weeks or around the 3-month mark.

A Vitamin E Liquid-enriched shampoo is reputed to reduce hair loss, promote luster, and make it easier to comb the hair. For hair that feels silkier and smoother and that is free of knots, add 3 drops of Vitamin E Liquid to a regularly-used shampoo. This simple solution is believed to increase circulation to the scalp, which improves the strength of the hair and overall hair health. Its hydrating property addresses dryness and works to prevent dandruff, and its nourishing quality repairs strands that have become damaged and brittle from excessive use of heat styling tools.

For a hair mask with similar effects, begin by combining 4 Tbsp. Aloe Vera Gel, 2 Tbsp. Argan Carrier Oil, and 2 tsp. Vitamin E Liquid. Apply this mask to the scalp and smooth it down over the strands, allowing it to soak in for 30 minutes before washing it out. This regimen can be repeated once or twice weekly to hydrate, repair, strengthen, and nourish hair.

To make a conditioning hot oil hair treatment that is reputed to preserve the health of hair that may regularly be subjected to the damaging effects of coloring treatments or heat styling, begin by creating a mixture of the following ingredients: 90 ml (3 oz.) Olive Carrier Oil, 90 ml (3 oz.) Coconut Carrier Oil, 90 ml (3 oz.) Hemp Seed Carrier Oil, and 90 ml (3 oz.) Jojoba Carrier Oil. To this blend, add 60 ml (2 oz.) Vitamin E Liquid. To use this oil blend, gently heat and apply it to the scalp and hair like a typical hair mask for smoother, stronger strands.

For a natural, pre-shower body oil that is reputed to remove dead and dull skin, promote the skin’s regeneration, and enhance its natural radiance, begin by thoroughly combining 2 tsp. Vitamin E Liquid, 2 Tbsp. Aloe Vera Gel, and 2 Tbsp. Rose Water in a small mixing bowl. This blend can be applied to the entire body in a thin layer and left on for 20 minutes before being washed off. To restore the skin’s moisture and revitalize its appearance and texture, this regimen can be followed twice a week.

To reduce the appearance of stretch marks and scars or to potentially prevent them from occurring, combine 1 tsp. Vitamin E Liquid and 2 Tbsp. Argan Carrier Oil. Massage this blend into the skin nightly for a few minutes, focusing especially on areas that are likely to develop stretch marks, such as the belly, hips, posterior, and thighs. This can also be applied after a bath or shower while the skin is still slightly damp. Due to the skin’s increased rate of absorption at this time, the oil is believed not to a leave a greasy residue. Used regularly, this regimen is reputed to promote smoother and clearer skin.

For a natural makeup remover that purifies while balancing the skin’s natural oils, begin by combining 30 ml (1 oz.) Vitamin E Liquid, 30 ml (1 oz.) Jojoba Carrier Oil, and 60 ml (2 oz.) Witch Hazel Distillate inside a clean bottle with a pump dispenser. Cap and shake the bottle well to thoroughly combine all the ingredients. To use this facial cleanser blend, simply pump a few drops onto a clean cotton pad and firmly swipe the pad across the skin to get rid of impurities and makeup, including mascara.

Used in medicinal applications, Liquid Vitamin E soothes and repairs skin to facilitate healing. For a bath blend that is reputed to ease the symptoms of damaging and uncomfortable skin conditions, such as psoriasis, dilute 1-2 tsp. Vitamin E Liquid in a warm bath. This is believed to contribute smoothness to rough, dry skin and to have a healing effect on injuries and abrasions, such as scrapes, cuts, redness, irritation, bumps, sunburn, and other topical distresses.

For a detoxifying and relaxing bath blend, begin by thoroughly combining the following ingredients in a food processor: 10 g (0.35 oz.) loose leaf Green Tea, 1 ¾ cup Epsom Salt, 2/3 cup Baking Soda, 1 ½ Tbsp. Vitamin E Liquid, 15 drops Eucalyptus Essential Oil, and 10 drops Lavender Essential Oil. Next, transfer this mixture to a jar or a plastic food storage bag. Add ½ cup of this bath blend along with 1 Tbsp. Coconut Carrier Oil to a warm bath and soak for 30 minutes. When this blend is not in use, it can be stored in a cool and dry area.

To gently soothe sunburned skin, begin by diluting 2 tsp. Vitamin E Liquid in 2 Tbsp. Aloe Vera Gel. Next, using the fingers, lightly smooth this blend onto the area of skin affected by overexposure to UV radiation. Leave this salve on until it dries or becomes sticky on the skin, at which time it can be rinsed off with cold water. Softly pat the skin dry. This preparation can be applied daily, or even several times daily, until the affected area of skin shows signs of improvement.

A GUIDE TO LIQUID VITAMIN E VARIETIES & THEIR BENEFITS

VITAMIN E (MT-50 FULL SPECTRUM) RAW MATERIAL

INCI: Tocopherol

Country of Origin: China

Believed to:

• Range in color from golden Yellow to a reddish shade
• Be a viscous oil with an aroma characteristic of vegetable oil
• Oxidize upon exposure to air and light, resulting in the gradual darkening of its color
• Potentially tint skincare formulations
• Be GMO-free and Gluten-free
• Protect the skin from environmental elements
• Contain d-alpha-Tocopherol, which helps reduce the appearance of fine lines
• Be a natural antioxidant with a full spectrum of Tocopherols
• Be ideal for use in cosmetics, particularly for extending the shelf-life of oils (any product with water in it will require a full-spectrum preservative).
• Extend the life of a carrier oil when used at 0.5%
• Benefit the skin when used at a minimum of 2% and a maximum of 30% in a formulation
• Be comprised of the following constituents: 50% Vitamin E (d-alpha-Tocopherol, d-beta-Tocopherol, d-gamma-Tocopherol, d-delta-Tocopherol) and 50% (GMO-free) Refined Soybean Oil
• Be soluble in ethanol, ether, acetone, fats, and vegetable oils
• Be insoluble in water
• Be designed specifically as an ingredient to be used in cosmetics, thus this particular form of Vitamin E should not be applied directly to the skin
• Be best preserved in a tightly-closed bottle and kept in a cool, dark, dry, and well-ventilated area

VITAMIN E (USP COSMETIC GRADE) RAW MATERIAL

INCI: d-alpha-Tocopherol

Country of Origin: China

Believed to:

• Be a viscous liquid that ranges in color from golden Yellow to clear Brown
• Oxidize upon exposure to air and light, resulting in the gradual darkening of its color
• Have the potential to add a tint of color to skincare formulations
• Be GMO-free and Gluten-free
• Play a crucial role in protecting the skin from environmental elements
• Help reduce the appearance of fine lines
• Extend the shelf life of oils (any product with water in it will require a full-spectrum preservative) when used at 0.5%
• Benefit the skin when added to a formulation at a minimum of 2% and a maximum of 30%
• Be designed specifically as an ingredient to be used in cosmetics, thus this particular form of Vitamin E should not be applied directly to the skin
• Be comprised of the following constituents: 67%-87% d-alpha-Tocopherol and 13%-33% Refined GMO-free Soybean Oil
• Be soluble in alcohol and oils
• Be insoluble in water
• Darken when exposed to high temperatures
• Degrade when exposed to alkali
• Be best preserved in a tightly-closed bottle and kept in a cool, dark, dry, and well-ventilated area

CONTRAINDICATIONS FOR LIQUID VITAMIN E

As with all other New Directions Aromatics products, Vitamin E Liquid is for external use only. It is imperative to consult a medical practitioner before using this oil for therapeutic purposes. Pregnant and nursing women are especially advised not to use Liquid Vitamin E without the medical advice of a physician, as it may have an effect on certain hormone secretions and it is unclear whether these effects are transferable to babies at these stages of development. The oil should always be stored in an area that is inaccessible to children, especially those under the age of 7.

Those with the following health or skin conditions are recommended to be advised by a physician: acne, bleeding disorders, liver or kidney problems, high blood fats, Retinitis pigmentosa, Vitamin K deficiency, cancer, diabetes, heart-related ailments, skin disorders, or hormone-related ailments. Individuals that are taking prescription drugs, undergoing or recovering from major surgery, or who are at a greater risk of experiencing strokes, heart attacks, or atherosclerosis are also advised to seek medical consultation prior to use.

Before using Vitamin E Liquid, a skin test is recommended. This can be done by diluting 1 drop of the liquid in 4 drops of a Carrier Oil and applying a dime-size amount of this blend to a small area of skin that is not sensitive. Liquid Vitamin E must never be used near the inner nose, ears, or on any other particularly sensitive areas of skin. Potential side effects of Liquid Vitamin E include bruising, bleeding, blurred vision, contact dermatitis, diarrhea, fatigue, headache, nausea, rash, skin irritation, stomach cramps, and weakness. When used in high doses, Vitamin E Liquid could potentially cause Hypervitaminosis E, which is characterized by numerous symptoms that can vary from skin blotches to bone pain.

Those seeking medical care to manage moods, behaviors, or disorders should treat this product as a complementary remedy rather than a replacement for any medicinal treatments or prescriptions. Those who use the following should inform their physicians before use of this product: mineral oil, iron supplements, blood thinners, or bile acid-binding resins.

In the event of an allergic reaction, discontinue use of the product and see a doctor, pharmacist, or allergist immediately for a health assessment and appropriate remedial action. To prevent side effects, consult with a medical professional prior to use.