Yes, vitamin E can be beneficial for sunburns. It offers several properties that aid in sunburn relief and recovery.
How Vitamin E Helps Sunburns
Vitamin E is a potent antioxidant. This means it combats free radicals, unstable molecules produced by UV radiation that damage skin cells and contribute to inflammation. By neutralizing these free radicals, vitamin E helps reduce the severity of sunburn symptoms.
Several studies show that vitamin E, often used in conjunction with vitamin C, reduces the sunburn reaction and might lower the risk of long-term UV damage. [1, 2]
Furthermore, vitamin E acts as a moisturizer. Sunburns often leave skin dry, itchy, and irritated. Vitamin E's moisturizing properties soothe these symptoms, relieving discomfort and promoting healing. [3, 4, 5] This is particularly helpful when blisters develop, as applying vitamin E oil can help prevent scratching and peeling. [6] Many after-sun lotions include vitamin E for its moisturizing and soothing effects. [7, 8, 9]
While vitamin E can soothe and moisturize sunburned skin, it cannot prevent sunburns. It's crucial to remember that sunscreen remains the primary defense against sun damage. [10]
Using Vitamin E for Sunburn Relief
- Apply vitamin E oil or a cream containing vitamin E directly to the sunburned area.
- Use a moisturizer rich in vitamin E after sun exposure to support healing.
- Avoid applying vitamin E to broken skin or open blisters.
Important Note: While vitamin E offers soothing benefits, it's not a replacement for proper sun protection or medical treatment for severe sunburns. For severe cases, consult a doctor.
[1] Protective effect against sunburn of combined systemic ascorbic ... https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9448204/
[2] Antioxidants and anti-inflammatories
[3] Is Vitamin E Good for Sunburned Skin? https://live-freely.eltamd.com/doc-talk/is-vitamin-e-good-for-sunburned-skin/
[4] Vitamin E oil benefits and uses https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/318168
[5] Reasons Why You Should Be Using Vitamin E This Summer ... https://www.pelicanhealthcare.co.uk/reasons-why-you-should-be-using-vitamin-e-this-summer/
[6] Four tips to treating a bad sunburn — and how to avoid it | Miami ... https://www.miamiherald.com/living/health-fitness/article263489083.html
[7] Sun Bum Cool Down Hydrating After Sun Lotion with ... - Amazon.com https://www.amazon.com/Sun-Bum-Hydrating-Lotion-Vitamin/dp/B07V6VM8SQ
[8] Epic Organicum After Sun Lotion | Sunburn Relief ... - Amazon.com https://www.amazon.com/Epic-Organicum-Sunburn-Vitamin-Moisturizer/dp/B0BV49GKRP
[9] The 6 Best Natural Remedies for Sunburn, According to a Doctor ... https://www.livestrong.com/article/13768048-natural-remedies-for-sunburns/
[10] What Vitamin E Does for Your Skin's Health https://health.clevelandclinic.org/vitamin-e-for-skin-health
