TOCOPHEROL

Also known as: Vitamin E, alpha-tocopherol

Tocopherol

What it is

Naturally found in vegetable oils and food sources and the synthetic forms are obtained from petroleum products. It is reported to function in cosmetics as an antioxidant or skin conditioning agent.

Mode of usage pertaining to the discussion below

Topical application in cosmetics and personal care products.

Safety Profile (Based on regional guidelines)

European Union – CIR Safe to use, as per current practice
European Union – SCCS Data unavailable
US FDA Safe to use, as per current practice
ASEAN guidelines Data unavailable

Safety in special situations

PregnancyNot listed as an ingredient to be avoided by pregnant women based on currently available data

Nursing MothersNot listed as an ingredient to be avoided by nursing mothers based on currently available data

Babies under 2 yearsNot listed as an ingredient to be avoided in baby products based on currently available data

Children under 12 yearsNot listed as an ingredient to be avoided by children based on currently available data

Cancer freeNot listed as an ingredient to be carcinogenic or mutagenic based on currently available data

Environmental and Ecological Concerns

Vegan

Biodegradable

Ecotoxicity

Natural/Synthetic

Note

  • You may need to look at the exact product claim to know if a vegan version was used.

Attributes

ComedogenicityRated 1–2; may cause occlusion depending on formulation

Acne prone skinMay or may not cause occlusion — depends on concentration

Sensitive skinSafe for use

Note

  • Tocopherol may or may not cause occlusion for acne prone skin, which depends on the concentration used.
  • Its use in sensitive skin depends on the final formulation and differs between products; May cause sensitivity and irritation at higher concentrations.
  • It may show endocrine-disrupting effects if it contains detectable hydroquinone.

Conclusion Tocopherol is safe as per the current practice of use.

References

  • https://european-union.europa.eu/index_en
  • https://www.cir-safety.org
  • https://www.accessdata.fda.gov
  • Fiume, Monice M et al., International journal of toxicology.

Disclaimer

The above information is based on ongoing toxicology research at CHOSEN®'s R&D. We will do our best to update the information as and when the latest studies are available. If you have any inputs regarding the above information, please email us at ingredients@chosenstore.in