Is Tocopherol (Vitamin E) Comedogenic?
Comedogenic rating: 2/5 — Low–moderate risk
Tocopherol (Vitamin E) is an antioxidant that helps defend skin against free-radical damage. In cosmetics it is typically found in serums, moisturizers and sunscreens. On a label it may also appear as tocopherol, vitamin e, tocopheryl acetate.
| Comedogenic rating | 2/5 — Low–moderate risk |
|---|---|
| Pore-clogging | Low–moderate |
| Fungal-acne safe | No — potential trigger |
| Category | Antioxidant |
| Also known as | tocopherol, vitamin e, tocopheryl acetate |
Is Tocopherol (Vitamin E) comedogenic?
Tocopherol (Vitamin E) carries a low-to-moderate comedogenic rating of 2 out of 5. Most people tolerate it well and it is unlikely to be a primary cause of breakouts. If your skin is extremely acne-prone, keep a light eye on it in leave-on products used around the T-zone, but for most users it is not a major concern.
Does Tocopherol (Vitamin E) cause fungal acne?
Separately from pore-clogging, Tocopherol (Vitamin E) is considered a potential fungal-acne (Malassezia) trigger. Fungal acne — properly called Malassezia folliculitis — appears as small, uniform, sometimes itchy bumps, and is fed by certain oils, fatty acids and esters. This is a different problem from comedogenic clogging, so if you are prone to fungal acne you may want to avoid Tocopherol (Vitamin E) even when its comedogenic rating is low.
Should you use Tocopherol (Vitamin E) if you're acne-prone?
Tocopherol (Vitamin E) is fine for normal, dry and combination skin. Very acne-prone users should introduce it slowly and watch for congestion, but it does not need to be avoided outright. The main caveat is fungal acne, which Tocopherol (Vitamin E) may still aggravate.
Frequently asked questions
Is Tocopherol (Vitamin E) comedogenic?
Tocopherol (Vitamin E) carries a low-to-moderate comedogenic rating of 2 out of 5. Most people tolerate it well and it is unlikely to be a primary cause of breakouts. If your skin is extremely acne-prone, keep a light eye on it in leave-on products used around the T-zone, but for most users it is not a major concern.
Does Tocopherol (Vitamin E) cause fungal acne?
Separately from pore-clogging, Tocopherol (Vitamin E) is considered a potential fungal-acne (Malassezia) trigger. Fungal acne — properly called Malassezia folliculitis — appears as small, uniform, sometimes itchy bumps, and is fed by certain oils, fatty acids and esters. This is a different problem from comedogenic clogging, so if you are prone to fungal acne you may want to avoid Tocopherol (Vitamin E) even when its comedogenic rating is low.
Is Tocopherol (Vitamin E) safe for acne-prone skin?
Tocopherol (Vitamin E) is fine for normal, dry and combination skin. Very acne-prone users should introduce it slowly and watch for congestion, but it does not need to be avoided outright. The main caveat is fungal acne, which Tocopherol (Vitamin E) may still aggravate.
What products is Tocopherol (Vitamin E) found in?
Tocopherol (Vitamin E) is an antioxidant that helps defend skin against free-radical damage, and is commonly found in serums, moisturizers and sunscreens.
What can I use instead of Tocopherol (Vitamin E)?
Look for non-comedogenic emollients rated 0–1 such as squalane, glycerin, hemp seed oil or sunflower oil.
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