Description

Natural Vitamin E (Mixed Tocopherols) – A Plant-Derived Antioxidant That Protects Skin and Preserves Formulations

Our Natural Vitamin E (Mixed Tocopherols) is a high-performance, plant-derived, palm-free antioxidant sourced from GMO-free soybean oil. Unlike isolated tocopherols, this full-spectrum blend contains D-alpha, D-beta, D-gamma, and D-delta tocopherols, working synergistically to deliver superior antioxidant protection for both skin health and formulation stability.

In cosmetic formulation, Mixed Tocopherols play a critical dual role. They help neutralize free radicals that accelerate skin aging, while also protecting oils and butters from oxidation, significantly extending the shelf life of oil-based and emulsified products. This makes Natural Vitamin E a cornerstone ingredient in modern, clean beauty formulations, especially those containing sensitive lipids or high-value actives.

Technical Information

INCI: Tocopherol (and) Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil
Source: GMO-Free Soybeans (Palm-Free)
Appearance: Reddish to brownish-red viscous liquid
Tocopherol Activity: 1000 IU/g oil
Composition:
– ~95% Natural Vitamin E (D-alpha, D-beta, D-gamma, D-delta tocopherols)
– ~5% refined GMO-free soybean oil
Solubility: Soluble in vegetable oils, fats, ethanol, ether, acetone
Recommended Usage: 0.1% – 2% (add during cool-down phase)

Performance & Benefits

For Formulations

• Protects carrier oils and butters from oxidative degradation

• Helps maintain freshness, color, and scent stability

• Extends shelf life of oil-based and anhydrous products

• Supports stability of oxidation-sensitive actives

For Skin

• Provides antioxidant defense against environmental stressors

• Supports skin barrier integrity and softness

• May help reduce the appearance of fine lines, scars, and discoloration

• Enhances moisturization and overall skin comfort

Note: Vitamin E is an antioxidant, not a preservative. Water-containing formulations still require a broad-spectrum preservative system.

Formulation Uses

• Facial oils and serums

• Body oils and massage blends

• Creams and lotions (oil phase)

• Balms, salves, and lip products

• Anhydrous formulations and oil blends

Vitamin E vs. Rosemary Oleoresin Extract (ROE)

Vitamin E and Rosemary Oleoresin Extract (ROE) serve complementary roles in natural formulation. Vitamin E excels at protecting skin lipids, while ROE offers strong oxidative protection for oils. Used together or individually, they help maintain product quality without synthetic antioxidants, especially in oil-only systems.

For even more antioxidant protection, Vitamin E and Rosemary Oleoresin Extract (ROE) can be used together or separately as part of a natural preservative system in oil-based products. Both help maintain product quality and extend shelf life without synthetic preservatives.

Pro Tip

Vitamin E works best as a preventative antioxidant. Add it early to fresh oils and butters (typically 0.3–0.5%) to slow oxidation before it starts. For high-risk formulations or extended shelf life, pair with Rosemary Oleoresin Extract (ROE) for enhanced protection.

Related Ingredients (Formulation Synergy)

Vitamin E (Mixed Tocopherols) works exceptionally well alongside other oxidation-sensitive actives and antioxidants, helping to stabilize formulas while enhancing overall skin performance:

• Retinol (Vitamin A) – Vitamin E helps protect retinol from oxidative degradation, improving stability and reducing the risk of irritation in anti-aging formulations.

• Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C) – When paired with Vitamin E, antioxidant activity is amplified, improving photoprotection and supporting collagen synthesis. Vitamin E also helps slow oxidation of Vitamin C in oil-containing systems.

• Kojic Acid / Kojic Dipalmitate – Vitamin E supports formula stability and helps counteract oxidative stress, making it a valuable addition to brightening and pigmentation targeting products.

• Rosemary Oleoresin Extract (ROE) – For oil-based or anhydrous products, Vitamin E and ROE can be used together to significantly extend shelf life and protect carrier oils and butters from rancidity.

Formulator’s note: While Vitamin E is not a preservative, pairing it strategically with complementary antioxidants improves both product longevity and active performance.

Cautions: Keep tightly closed in a cool, dark, dry place as Vitamin E is prone to oxidization.

Disclaimer:
For cosmetic formulation use only,  not for internal or medical applications. Because many of our ingredients are naturally derived, slight variations in colour or texture may occur.

At Skin Foodie, we believe that what goes into your formulations should be as pure as what goes into your body. That’s why we source only ingredients that meet exceptional standards of purity, performance, and safety. Remember: not all ingredients are created equal,  the same name or CAS number does not guarantee the same quality.