Vitamin E (Tocopherol): the little bottle that makes everything last
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Vitamin E is the quiet insurance policy of homemade skincare. A few drops in almost anything oil-based and you've given it a longer, better life.
What it is
Tocopherol is a natural antioxidant. In a formula, its main job is to slow down oxidation — the process that eventually turns oils rancid and stale. It's an antioxidant, by the way, not a preservative: it protects oils, but it won't stop bacteria in anything containing water.
What it does
It keeps your carrier oils, butters and balms fresher for longer, and it's good for skin in its own right — supporting the skin barrier and helping to soften and protect. Two jobs in one little bottle.
How to use it
- Add around 0.5 to 1% to any oil, butter or balm recipe
- Stir it into the oil phase once it's cooled a little
- Especially important with delicate oils like evening primrose
If a recipe of mine contains oils, you'll nearly always see a splash of vitamin E in there — it's just good housekeeping.
Steph x