Dermatologist Muneeb Shah, D.O., took to TikTok as well to answer the question we’ve all been wondering: Is this hack worth the hype? The truth is, “studies show very few benefits,” Shah explains. In fact, it may actually do more harm than good when used in this form: Again, the oil is incredibly thick and goopy, which can be pore-clogging for some. (That’s why it’s common in oily, waxy formulas, like lip balms.) It’s very uncommon, but topical vitamin E can also irritate sensitive skin, which is why experts always recommend patch-testing vitamin E oil before applying it directly to your face. However, Shah does state that, “vitamin E has a ton of antioxidant benefits,” which is one of the reasons many people ingest those vitamin E capsules TikTokers are breaking open. What’s more, sun exposure and aging increase the need for antioxidants, and vitamins C and E are well-known antioxidant nutrients that scavenge free radicals and combat oxidative stress2 to help maintain healthy skin and gut health while promoting healthy aging.* So if you’re thinking about applying straight vitamin E oil for a healthy barrier and brighter skin, consuming the vitamin instead might be the best way to go.*
