Generic Name: vitamin E topical
Brand Names: Coppertone Aloe Aftersun Lotion, E-Oil, Palomar E, Vite E Creme, Vitec
Drug Class: Emollients
What is vitamin E topical, and what is it used for?
Vitamin E is an important micronutrient with antioxidant properties and is essential for good health. Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin and is used as a topical emollient to moisturize and soothe skin that is irritated or chafed from diaper use or other minor skin irritations.
Vitamin E topical is available over the counter (OTC) in the form of oils, creams, and ointments. Vitamin E protects the skin cells from damage caused by exposure to sunlight.
Vitamin E is an antioxidant that neutralizes free radicals (reactive oxygen species) and unstable molecules that result from normal cellular activity, which can damage tissue. Vitamin E also protects fatty molecules (phospholipids) on the cellular membranes from being damaged by free radicals and protects the membrane integrity. In addition, vitamin E protects red blood cells from destruction (hemolysis), and prevents oxidation of vitamins A and C.
Uses of vitamin E topical include:
- Healing of scar and surgical-wound tissue
- Moisturization and healing of skin
- Prevention of premature aging of the skin
- Reduction of fine lines and wrinkles
What are the side effects of vitamin E topical?
Warnings
- Do not use vitamin E topical if you are hypersensitive to any of the components in the formulation.
- Contact your physician if your condition worsens or doesn’t improve after the use of vitamin E topical for one week.
Common side effects of vitamin E topical include:
- Redness (erythema)
- Irritation
- Stinging
- Burning
Call your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following symptoms or serious side effects while using this drug:
- Serious heart symptoms include fast or pounding heartbeats, fluttering in your chest, shortness of breath, and sudden dizziness;
- Severe headache, confusion, slurred speech, severe weakness, vomiting, loss of coordination, feeling unsteady;
- Severe nervous system reaction with very stiff muscles, high fever, sweating, confusion, fast or uneven heartbeats, tremors, and feeling like you might pass out; or
- Serious eye symptoms include blurred vision, tunnel vision, eye pain or swelling, or seeing halos around lights.
This is not a complete list of all side effects or adverse reactions that may occur from the use of this drug. Call your doctor for medical advice about serious side effects or adverse reactions. You may also report side effects or health problems to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

QUESTION
Ringworm is caused by a fungus. See AnswerWhat are the dosages of vitamin E topical?
Cream
- 30,000 units/57 g
- 1000 units/120 g
- 100 units/g
- 30 units/g
Ointment
- 30 units/g
Oil
- 28,000 units/30 mL
Adult:
Dermatologic Pain/Irritation
- Apply topically to affected areas as needed
Pediatric:
Diaper Rash/Dermatologic Pain/Irritation
- Apply topically to affected areas as needed
Overdose
What drugs interact with vitamin E topical?
Inform your doctor of all medications you are currently taking, who can advise you on any possible drug interactions. Never begin taking, suddenly discontinue, or change the dosage of any medication without your doctor’s recommendation.
- Vitamin E topical has no listed severe, serious, moderate, or mild interactions with other drugs.
The drug interactions listed above are not all of the possible interactions or adverse effects. For more information on drug interactions, visit the RxList Drug Interaction Checker.
It is important to always tell your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider about all prescription and over-the-counter medications you use, as well as the dosage for each, and keep a list of the information. Check with your doctor or healthcare provider if you have any questions about the medication.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
- Use vitamin E topical during pregnancy only if maternal benefits outweigh potential fetal risks.
- It is not known if use of topical vitamin E results in presence in breast milk.
- Check with your healthcare provider before using vitamin E topical if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
What else should I know about vitamin E topical?
- Vitamin E topical is for external topical use only.
- Apply vitamin E topical exactly as per label directions.
- Avoid contact with eyes.
- Do not orally ingest vitamin E topical.
- Store vitamin E topical safely out of reach of children.
- In case of oral ingestion and overdose, seek medical help or contact Poison Control.
Health News
- After Salmonella Cases Double in a Week, Cantaloupe Recall Expanded
- COVID Vaccines Curbed Pandemic-Linked Surge in Preemie Births
- Could a 'Brain Coach' Help Folks at Higher Risk for Alzheimer's?
- Early Promise for Stem Cell Therapy to Curb MS
- Internet Poses No Threat to Mental Health, Major Study Finds
More Health News »
Summary
Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin and is used as a topical emollient to moisturize and soothe skin that is irritated or chafed from diaper use or other minor skin irritations. Vitamin E uses include healing of scar and surgical-wound tissue, moisturization and healing of skin, prevention of premature aging of the skin, and reduction of fine lines and wrinkles. Common side effects of vitamin E topical include redness (erythema), irritation, stinging, and burning. Consult with your doctor if pregnant or breastfeeding.
Multimedia: Slideshows, Images & Quizzes
-
Fungal Skin Infections: Types, Symptoms, and Treatment
Fungal skin infections and fungal nail infections produce symptoms like red, itchy, circular rashes and thick, discolored, flaky...
-
Skin Diseases: 15 Uncommon Skin Conditions
Genetic illnesses, health conditions, or infections cause your skin to react in unusual ways. Learn about these conditions and...
-
Your Guide to Anti-Aging Skin Care Essentials
Some of the most important tricks in the fight against aging come down to the basics. Learn how washing and moisturizing your...
-
Skin Problems: Weird Conditions Associated with Aging
Aging skin can cause wrinkles, liver spots, and leg sores. Learn the cause of spider and varicose veins. See pictures of skin...
-
Baby Skin Care: Tips to Keep Newborn’s Skin Healthy
Baby skin care products can help with peeling, rashes, baby acne, and dryness that can develop on a newborn baby's skin. Develop...
-
Skin Health: How to Get Clear Skin
Acne, pimples, zits and blemishes often appear on the face, back, chest, neck, and shoulders where skin has the most amount of...
-
Vitamin E: What You Need to Know
Find out why you need vitamin E, where you get it, and what it does for your body.
-
See How Your Life Affects Your Skin
See how your life affects your skin. The choices you make every day affect the appearance of your skin. Learn how to avoid dry...
-
Skin & Health: How Your Skin Reveals Health Problems
Skin problems are often the first signs of serious underlying health problems. Diabetes, lupus, hepatitis C and lung cancer are...
-
How to Get Rid of Acne: Skin Care Tips
Want to know how to get rid of blackheads? Discover tips on clogged pores, sunscreen SPF and how to remove makeup for different...
-
Acne: Foods That Cause and Fight Acne and Pimples
How can you get rid of acne breakouts with nutrition? Does this food cause acne? Milk, chocolate, and seaweed are all considered...
-
Picture of Ice Pick Scars
Ice pick scars that show an appearance of sunken or pitted acne scars. The scars look like punctures that could have been made...
-
Picture of Hypertrophic Scar
Hypertrophic scarring represents an undesirable variant in the wound healing process. Another variant of wound healing, the...
-
Picture of Erythematous Deep Acne Scars
Acne scarring is a common sequel of severe inflammatory or cystic acne. It can present in a mild or cosmetically disfiguring...
-
Dry Skin Quiz
Dry, itching, flaky skin? Take the Dry Skin Quiz to learn what's causing your dry skin and what you can do about it beyond...
-
Skin Conditions Quiz: Common Skin Diseases
Could you identify a scabies infestation? Take the Skin Diseases Pictures Quiz and learn to identify common conditions that...
-
Skin Quiz: Acne, Dry Skin, Dandruff & More
What's that all over you? Skin, of course! Test your knowledge of your most amazing organ with the Skin Quiz!
-
Newborn Skin-Care: Rashes, Umbilical Cord Care, Bathing & Baby Products
See what normal newborn skin looks like and learn how to care for it. WebMD shows you diapering and bathing tips.
-
Skin Sins: 15 Ways to Wreck Your Skin
Avoid skin damage by shunning bad habits like tanning, popping pimples, exfoliating too much, poor diet, smoking, and using the...
-
Top Foods for Healthy Hair
Top foods for healthy hair include salmon, green vegetables, beans, nuts, poultry, eggs, whole grains, oysters, low-fat dairy...
-
Picture of Diaper Rash
Almost every baby will get diaper rash at least once during the first 3 years of life, with the majority of these babies 9-12...
-
Diet and Nutrition: Best and Healthiest Foods for Your Skin
Your diet can affect your skin in many ways. Certain foods that contain nutrients that promote a healthy, vibrant complexion....
-
Sun-Damaged Skin: See Sun Spots, Wrinkles, Sunburns, Skin Cancer
See how sun damaged skin can cause wrinkles, moles, melanoma (skin cancer) and more. Explore images of squamous cell carcinoma...
-
Acne Care Pictures: Skin Care Dos and Don'ts
Explore quick acne cover-ups, dos and don'ts. See solutions on how to best handle pesky pimples and remedies to avoid.
-
Facial Health: What Your Skin and Face Symptoms Can Reveal About You
What medical problems appear on your face? Look into the mirror and find out. Jaundice, glaucoma, skin cancer, and cracked lips...
-
Health and Beauty: Skin Care Products That May Not Work
We're all looking for products to help our skin. Here are some things you may want to stay away from.
-
Diet and Nutrition: Fruit and Veggie Skins You Can Eat
Although we regularly peel many fruit and veggie skins, some are actually packed with nutrients. Check out these 11 fruits and...
-
Skin and Beauty: How to Fade and Get Rid of Age Spots
From vitamin C creams to chemical peels, learn the proven ways to fade dark spots.
-
Cosmetics Quiz: Test Your Skin Savvy
Take this quiz and test your skin savvy on makeup, mascara, and other cosmetic skincare beauty products.
-
How to Make Scars Less Visible
If you have scars that you’d rather make less noticeable, these tips may help you know what you can try yourself and what may...
-
Women's Health: Better Skin After 50 and Menopause
So what if you're aging? WebMD shows you how to keep your skin beautiful during menopause -- with creams, injectables, lasers,...
-
Health and Beauty: Signs of Poor Skin Hydration
Is your skin dry, or thirsty? Find out how to spot the difference between skin that’s naturally dry and skin that's dehydrated.
-
Alcohol: How Drinking Alcohol Affects Your Skin
From flushed cheeks and puffy eyes to the risk of skin cancer, drinking alcohol can affect your skin in many ways.
-
What Are the Worst Foods for Your Skin?
What to know about how diet affects your skin. Learn the worst foods for your skin.
-
Skin Conditions: Things That Look Scary but Aren't
Alarmed by something popping up on your body that’s clearly not supposed to be there? These pictures from WebMD show you a few...
Related Disease Conditions
-
Dry Skin
Dry skin (xeroderma) may be caused by external factors, like cold temperatures, low humidity, harsh soaps, and certain medications, or internal factors, such as thyroid disease, diabetes, psoriasis, or Sjogren's syndrome. Symptoms and signs of dry skin include itching and red, cracked, or flaky skin. The main treatment for dry skin is frequent, daily lubrication of the skin.
-
Yeast Infection vs. Diaper Rash in Infants, Toddlers, and Children
Diaper rash in infants, babies, toddlers, and children is caused by Candida, the most common type of fungus. Signs and symptoms of diaper rash includes red, elevated skin that may be visible under and in the creases of the skin, groin, or anus. Yeast diaper rash is not painful. Treatments for diaper rash include antibiotic creams, lotions, natural home remedies, over-the-counter (OTC) medicine, and oral antibiotics. Yeast infections in infants, babies, toddlers, and children can cause diaper rash and thrush. Signs and symptoms of thrush include thick, white lacy patches on top of a red base that can form on the tongue, palate, or elsewhere inside the palate. Treatment for yeast infections caused by Candida fungi are similar to the treatments for diaper rash. If Candida gets into the bloodstream of an individual they may get sick with or without a fever. If the Candida infection spreads throughout the body up to 45% of people may die. Even with common mouth thrush can cause critical illness and may be more resistant to normal treatment.
-
Skin Care for Dry Skin
Second Source article from WebMD
-
Skin Cancer and Sun Damage
Second Source WebMD Medical Reference
-
How Do You Tell if You Have Athlete’s Foot or Dry Skin?
Learn about the differences between athlete’s foot and dry skin, what causes these conditions, the different symptoms to watch for, and how they’re treated.
-
11 Tips to Get Rid of Diaper Rash Fast
Diaper rash is a common condition seen in babies. Get rid of diaper rash fast by keeping the area clean and dry, avoiding scrubbing the area, not using baby wipes, and implementing other measures.
-
How Do You Get Rid of Acne Scars Naturally?
Approximately 80% of people between the ages of 11 and 30 years old have acne due to hormonal changes, stress, menses, oil-based cosmetics or birth control pills. A variety of remedies including tea tree oil, coconut oil, honey and other substances may help get rid of acne scars naturally. The dermatologist has prescription treatments and procedures to reduce the appearance of acne scars.
-
How Does Tea Tree Oil Get Rid of Skin Tags?
Learn how tea tree oil will help get rid of your skin tags and help you manage this condition.
-
How Do You Get Rid of Acne Scars Overnight?
Acne breakouts are common and quite frustrating. Strategies to get rid of acne will take time to work, so you must be regular and diligent in their application. Aloe vera, apple cider vinegar, cocoa butter, honey and cinnamon, green tea, tea tree oil and other substances improve skin's appearance.
-
Are Adhesions and Scar Tissue the Same?
Adhesions are scar tissue in your body, which develop as a result of infections, inflammation, surgery, or trauma. Check out the center below for more medical references on adhesions and scar tissue, including multimedia (slideshows, images, and quizzes), related disease conditions, treatment and diagnosis, medications, and prevention or wellness.
-
Can Burn Scars Be Permanent?
Scar tissue fades over time for burn scars affecting the outer layers of the skin; however, the scars are more permanent for more severe burn injuries.
-
Which Collagen Is Best for the Skin?
Collagen is one of the most abundant proteins in the body. It is the main structural protein that forms the connective tissue throughout our body, from the skin to bones, muscles, tendons and ligaments. Collagen makes up a whopping 80 percent of our skin and works with another protein called elastin that keeps our skin elastic.
-
Can Sunburn Cause Red Spots on the Skin?
When does sun exposure cause red spots on the skin? Learn the causes of red spots, when to see a doctor for red spots, how to prevent red spots, and what you can do to treat red spots.
-
Diaper Rash
A diaper rash is a skin irritation that develops in the diaper-covered region. Most diaper rashes are caused by bacterial or yeast infections, though some may be caused by contact dermatitis or allergic reactions to the diapers and wipes. Cleansing with water and soft cloths, followed by application of petroleum jelly or zinc oxide and frequent diaper changes is the best treatment for a diaper rash.
-
The Skin (Human Anatomy): Picture, Definition, Function and Skin Conditions
The skin is the largest organ in the body that covers the entire external surface. It protects the internal organs from germs and thus helps prevent infections. The skin is made up of three main layers.
-
Can Vitamin E Oil Remove Dark Spots?
Despite the use of vitamin E in skin lightening creams, there is insufficient evidence on whether vitamin E oil can remove dark spots.
-
How Much Does It Cost for Laser Skin Resurfacing?
Laser resurfacing is a procedure that removes layers of the skin and improves its appearance or treats minor facial flaws such as blemishes or acne scars by using lasers.
-
Do C-section Scars Go Away?
C-section scars do not go away completely. They can fade on their own with time or with treatments, but a visible line is often left. You can use nonsurgical and surgical methods to reduce the appearance of scars.
-
How Can I Lighten My Skin Naturally?
Melanin is a substance made by cells in the skin, and it is the pigment responsible for the skin color that may vary with race and genetics. Skin problems like allergies, acne, hormonal disorders, and exposure to the sun can cause changes to the skin color. Hyperpigmentation is the darkening of the skin.
-
How Can I Make My Skin Tighter?
Most people experience sagging skin between the ages of 35 and 40 years old. As we age, the production of proteins that are responsible for keeping our skin plump, firm and smooth (collagen and elastin) declines gradually, resulting in sagging skin on the face, neck and body. Some of the natural or home remedies to firm the skin include facial exercise, application of topical products and doctor prescribed interventions.
-
What Does Retinol Do for the Skin?
Retinol is a type of retinoid, which is a fat-soluble organic compound and vitamin A derivative. Vitamin A is important for eyesight, skin health, growth, and development. It acts as an immediate precursor to two important active metabolites: retinal, which plays a critical role in vision, and retinoic acid, which serves as an intracellular messenger regulating the transcription of genes.
-
What Are the 3 Types of Acne Scars?
The 3 types of acne scars include atrophic scars, hypertrophic and keloid scars, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
-
Natural Remedies for Acne Scars
What are acne scars? Learn how to treat acne scars and get rid of acne scars naturally.
-
How Do You Treat Aging Dry Skin?
Dry skin is common in older adults. Treat aging dry skin my moisturizing, bathing in warm water, and using a soft washcloth.
-
Does Scar Revision Really Work?
Scar revision helps in making the scar less noticeable and more cosmetically appealing; however, it does not completely erase it. Scar revision is also useful in restoring a poorly healed scar. Scar revision may include both surgical and non-surgical techniques. Complications of scar revisions can be reduced by proper planning and physician’s experience.
-
Can Scars Be Removed by Laser?
You cannot get rid of a scar with laser treatment. However, laser treatment can make a scar less noticeable. Laser treatment for a scar can be considered as an approach to replace one scar with a less visible scar. The treatment involves using a focused light (laser) to either remove the outer layer of skin or stimulate the production of new skin cells to cover the scarred or damaged skin cells.
-
What Are the Warning Signs of Skin Cancer?
Warning signs of skin cancer include new or changing moles, red or itchy patches, lumps, or other unusual growths on the skin.
-
What Causes Skin Discoloration?
Skin discoloration may result from several factors, such as excessive sun exposure, hormonal fluctuations, autoimmune diseases and genetics.
-
How Can Stress Affect Your Skin?
Your skin has a direct connection to your brain. Recent research has shown that your skin can perceive stress and respond to it.
-
How Can I Make My Face Glow Naturally? 15 Skincare Tips
Each of us secretly desires a glowing face. It is not surprising that the market is flooded with cosmetics claiming to make your skin glow. Healthy and glowing skin is not an overnight effect but a result of daily persistent efforts.
-
What Does Glycolic Acid Do to Your Skin?
Glycolic acid is a skin exfoliating agent that helps remove the top layer of skin cells including dead skin cells. Glycolic acid helps smooth fine lines and surface wrinkles on the skin, unblock pores and improve skin’s texture and appearance.
-
How Is Honey Good for Your Skin?
Honey has so many skin benefits that it often appears as an ingredient in commercial skincare products. You can also use honey straight from the jar if you want to get all the effects without other ingredients.
-
How Can I Improve the Health of My Skin?
Healthy, glowing skin is often a result of genes and efforts you invest in your overall health. Learn the 30 tips that can help you improve the health of your skin here.
-
Is Applying Coconut Oil Good for Skin?
Coconut oil is a fat that contains over 90% saturated fat. Coconut oil has great benefits for skin health.
-
How Do I Know if It’s Skin Cancer?
Skin cancer can be detected by examining yourself regularly for signs such as new moles or growths as well as changes in size, color, texture or appearance of existing moles.
-
When Should I Be Concerned About Diaper Rash?
Most cases of diaper rash are mild and resolve with simple at-home remedies; however, here is when you should be concerned about the rash.
-
How Can I Improve My Skin in Winter?
Winter can expose your skin to less-than-ideal conditions, from wind to dry air. Here are 15 tips for improving your skin in winter.
Treatment & Diagnosis
- Skin Conditions Picture FAQs
- Skin FAQs
- Dry Skin FAQs
- Skin Tags: Should They Be Removed?
- Skin: Are Hypoallergenic Cosmetics Really Better?
- Sun Protection . . . Kids At The Beach
- Prostate Cancer Risk May Be Lowered By Vitamin E
- Melanoma Skin Cancer of U.S. Senator John McCain
- What Causes White Patches on the Skin?
- How Does PCOS Affect Your Appearance?
- How to Tell If Your Red Skin Is Rosacea?
- Can Dermabrasion Cure Acne Scars?
- Can Vitamin E Cure Macular Degeneration?
- How to Get Rid of Skin Tags Naturally
- Does Exercise Make Your Skin Look Younger?
- How Accurate Are Skin Biopsies?
- Do Fish Oil Supplements Cure Dry Skin?
- Is Skin Discoloration a Side Effect of Cortisone Injection?
- Skin Changes: How to Spot Skin Cancer
- Fats: The Skinny on Fat
- Skin and Hair Care for Women of Color
Medications & Supplements
Prevention & Wellness
Health Solutions From Our Sponsors

Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
https://reference.medscape.com/drug/coppertone-aloe-aftersun-lotion-e-oil-vitamin-e-topical-999356
https://www.uptodate.com/contents/vitamin-e-topical-drug-information
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4976416/
https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-3878/vitamin-e-topical/details