INCI name

Tocopherol

Also listed as: Vitamin E

Tocopherol is vitamin E. In cosmetics it is used both as an antioxidant for the formula (it helps keep oils from going rancid) and as a skin-conditioning ingredient. Tocopheryl acetate is a related, more stable ester and has its own INCI name.

Natural tocopherol is often sourced from vegetable oils such as soybean or sunflower. The INCI name alone does not confirm the source or whether the material is mixed isomers or a single form.

Where it turns up

Oil serums, moisturisers, lip balms and anywhere plant oils need protection from oxidation.

Sensitivities

Uncommon. Rare contact allergy has been reported, more often with tocopheryl acetate in some older case reports.

Vegan or animal-derived

Usually from plants. Confirm if you need a vegan product.

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