ryan-christodoulou-LDrSJ3cjauY-unsplash (1)

*Feel like you need a dictionary every time you look at the ingredient list of a beauty product? Still unsure of the difference between retinol and retinoids? What about the unique benefits of vitamins B, C, and E? Are alpha and beta hydroxy acids the same thing? The skincare aisle can be overwhelming, but you don’t need a PhD in cosmetic chemistry to navigate it. With expert help, The AEDITION is demystifying and simplifying the beauty industry — [one label at a time](https://aedit.com/aedition/category/read-the-label).*

Due to its potent composition and workhorse status, vitamin E is an ingredient that is likely already in both your skincare routine and diet whether you realize it or not. Applied topically or consumed via leafy greens, seeds, and nuts (to name a few), the antioxidant offers protection from free radicals and improves skin regeneration that [wards off sun damage](https://aedit.com/aedition/cosmetic-procedures-treatments-to-correct-sun-damage) and improves skin tone and texture. 

No matter how nutrient-dense your diet may be, just about everyone can benefit from a bit of vitamin E in their skincare routine. But what’s the best way to use it? The AEDITION spoke with board certified dermatologists to get the scoop.  

## **What Is Vitamin E**
“Vitamin E – or alpha-tocopherol – is a fat-soluble vitamin with antioxidant properties,” explains Beverly Hills-based board certified dermatologist [Jeanette Black, MD](https://www.skincareandlaser.com/about-jeanette-black.php). “It is found naturally in many foods, including green, leafy vegetables, nuts, seeds, meats, eggs, and vegetable oils.” 

Though the body receives a daily dose of vitamin E through diet, its molecular makeup allows it to provide skincare benefits as well when applied topically. “It is made up of eight different types of molecules that work as antioxidants,” says [Morgan Rabach, MD](https://aedit.com/provider/morgan-rabach-md-17913), a board certified cosmetic dermatologist and co-founder of LM Medical in New York. As she explains it, the molecules help reduce free-radical formation, which is what happens when your skin is under stress from UV light, pollution, toxins, blue light, and the like. In turn, the skin is able to spend more time repairing itself and less time fighting off the disruptive damage caused by free radicals. 

## **Benefits of Vitamin E**
In case you haven’t gotten the gist, vitamin E is an important part of any skin and sun care regimen. “The primary mechanism of action for topical antioxidants, such as vitamin E, is to neutralize free radicals caused by UV radiation from the sun,” Dr. Black explains. While it is commonly consumed through food and a deficiency is rare, the topical application of vitamin E still has an array of health benefits — specifically for the skin. As it absorbs, vitamin E helps strengthen the skin’s barrier to shield against external pollutants.

But that’s not all. Vitamin E pulls double-duty as a nourishing emollient akin to [hyaluronic acid](https://aedit.com/aedition/guide-to-hyaluronic-acid-in-skincare-dermal-filler). “It helps maintain the seal on the outer layer of skin and also smooths out dry skin, allowing your skin to keep moisture inside,” Dr. Rabach says. Dehydrated skin can lead to a loss of volume, dullness, and an overall tired appearance that could otherwise be avoided through proper skincare and a healthy lifestyle. 

## **Finding the Right Vitamin E Product** 
As a fat-soluble ingredient, vitamin E delivers the best results in an oily formulation. Like [vitamin C](https://aedit.com/aedition/guide-to-topical-vitamin-c-in-skincare), it also functions best when housed in specific packaging. “Antioxidant formulations are often packaged in dark, opaque bottles to help prevent exposure to light to keep the ingredients viable,” Dr. Black says. When reading the label, look for the term ‘tocopherol’ (i.e. its technical name) and know that you’ll likely find it in everything from serums to sunscreens. 

“One of my favorite formulations is the [SkinCeuticals CE Ferulic](https://www.skinceuticals.com/c-e-ferulic-with-15%25-l-ascorbic-acid-635494263008.html), which includes ingredients such as vitamin E, vitamin C, and ferulic acid,” Dr. Black shares. Those who prefer creams, meanwhile, can find it in products like the [Alder New York Everyday Face Moisturizer](https://aldernewyork.com/products/everyday-face-moisturizer), where it is also compounded with vitamin C and hyaluronic acid for an extra boost. 

## **When to Use Vitamin E**
The best thing about vitamin E? It doesn’t require much guesswork to add it into your routine. When layering products, start with the lightest consistency (think: serum) and work up to the thickest (i.e. oils and creams). If your vitamin E is in a serum form, apply it after cleanser and toner but before the moisturizer. If it is in your moisturizer, save it for last.  

As for when to use it? “As the primary mechanism of action of topical antioxidants is to neutralize free radicals caused by UV radiation from the sun, it makes the most sense to use these products in the morning under sunscreen,” Dr. Black explains. But don’t just save it for a sunny day. “UVA rays from the sun can penetrate through windows and clouds, so wearing a topical antioxidant and sunscreen everyday can help protect the skin from the cumulative effects of regular sun exposure,” she adds, noting that the benefits of wearing topical antioxidants and sunscreen matter even when you’re “staying indoors and out of direct sunlight.”

While antioxidants like vitamin E offer protective power during the day, they are also reparative at night. “The antioxidants help repair damage from the day and the moisturizing effects help rehydrate the skin overnight,” Dr. Rabach says. So, don’t be afraid to add them to [your beauty sleep arsenal](https://aedit.com/aedition/impact-of-beauty-sleep-on-skin-health-nighttime-skincare-products).

### **Note: Be Smart About Vitamin E Supplements** 
Topical vitamin E may be a no brainer for many patients, but introducing an oral supplement containing the antioxidant requires a bit more consideration. “Because vitamin E is readily consumed in many foods, vitamin E deficiency is unusual unless there is intestinal malabsorption,” Dr. Black says. “Vitamin E is generally well-tolerated as an oral supplement, but it’s important to take the recommended doses as vitamin E toxicity is possible.” 

To avoid any complications, be sure to speak to a board certified provider before trying to self-medicate with this (or any!) vitamins in hopes of amplifying the benefits. “Side effects from taking vitamin E supplements could include thinning of the blood, which can make bruising and bleeding more common during medical procedures,” she warns.

## **Best Candidates for Vitamin E** 
While patients with “dry, cracked, and damaged skin” can benefit from vitamin E, Dr. Rabach cautions that people with acne-prone and/or oily skin may want to avoid it in favor of an oil-free moisturizer. “Skin reactions from topical vitamin E are possible so consult a board certified dermatologist if a skin reaction occurs,” Dr. Black adds. 

Another group of patients who *can* benefit? Anyone with UV-inflicted damage and pigmentation concerns. “Those with sun sensitivity and sun damage could potentially benefit from wearing a topical antioxidant,” Dr. Black says. “Patients with sun-related dyspigmentation, such as melasma, can especially benefit from using topicals with antioxidants like vitamin E.” 

## **The Takeaway**
Protecting the skin from free radicals and pollutants are a few of the ways to prevent visible signs of aging and sun damage, and vitamin E is here to help. When worn daily under sunscreen, the antioxidant helps improve the skin’s barrier function and lock in moisture. The most important thing to remember, however, is that it is meant to complement your SPF — not replace it. “It is important to remember that using cosmeceuticals with antioxidants does not replace daily sunscreen use,” Dr. Black says. “But it can be worn under sunscreen to complement its protective effects.”

AEDITION complexion perfection-min

Beauty Collection | The AEDITION

Beauty

From fighting free radical damage to keeping wrinkles at bay, topical vitamin E is a skincare staple for a reason. To understand why, The AEDITION asked the experts.

A Guide To Topical Vitamin E In Skincare

Read the Label: All Your Vitamin E Questions Answered

implant removal

It is recommended that [breast implants be replaced](https://aedit.com/aedition/guide-to-replacing-breast-implants) every 10 years or so, but what if you no longer want your implants? That’s where [breast implant removal](https://aedit.com/procedure/breast-implant-removal) comes in. 

Generally speaking, there are a few reasons women who undergo [breast augmentation](https://aedit.com/procedure/breast-augmentation-with-implants) or [breast reconstruction](https://aedit.com/aedition/comprehensive-guide-to-breast-reconstruction-nipple-reconstruction-after-breast-cancer) with implants later wish to have them removed, says [Melissa Doft, MD](https://aedit.com/provider/melissa-doft-md-63), a double board certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon and founder of Doft Plastic Surgery in New York City: 

- **Capsular Contracture**: The most common reason for removal, according to Dr. Doft, the condition occurs when the capsule that forms around the implant hardens, distorting the implant and potentially causing pain.
- **Patient Preference**: Some women decide they simply no longer want to have implants. “They may have had them placed 20 years ago and find that the size no longer fits their body,” Dr. Doft says.
- **Breast Implant Illness (BII) Symptoms**: Breast implant patients sometimes describe symptoms like fatigue, chronic pain, hair loss, headaches, photosensitivity, sleep disturbance, and depression (to name a few) that may be attributed to the implants. “It is unclear if BII is a real disease, as removing the implant often does not improve symptoms,” Dr. Doft explains.

Just this week, Chrissy Teigen shared on social media that she is planning to have her implants removed “soon” because they no longer serve her. “I’m getting my boobs out! They’ve been great to me for many years but I’m just over it,” [she wrote, in part, on Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/p/CAqylh4pjZ-/). “I’d like to be able to zip a dress in my size, lay on my belly with pure comfort! No biggie! So don’t worry about me!”

<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CAqylh4pjZ-/" class="embedly-card" data-card-width="50%" data-card-controls="0">Embedded content: https://www.instagram.com/p/CAqylh4pjZ-/</a> 

Whether your preferences have changed like Teigen or you are experiencing complications from breast augmentation, anyone considering breast implant removal likely has a lot of questions: *What does the breast implant removal surgery entail?* *What will my breasts look like afterwards?* *Are additional procedures required?* Here, we break down everything you need to know about the process. 

## **The Breast Implant Removal Process**
Women considering breast implant removal should first consult with a [board certified](https://aedit.com/aedition/medical-board-certification-in-plastic-surgery-cosmetic-dermatology) plastic surgeon to assess the state of their implants and discuss their aesthetic goals and/or concerns. In many cases, the explant is a fairly straightforward cosmetic procedure during which the surgeon will remove the implant from the breast capsule (i.e. the pocket the body forms around the foreign substance). In some cases, conditions like capsular contraction, deflation, or rupture  may make the removal surgery more complex, but desired results can still be achieved. 

Similar to how breast implants are placed, breast implant removal surgery requires an incision to be made along the lower fold of the breast (i.e. the inframammary fold) or around the areola. From there, surgeons will remove the implant and, in most cases, the breast capsule as well.

## **How Breasts Look After Implant Removal**
As Dr. Doft explains, the shape and condition of the breasts after implants are removed depends on three factors:

1. The size of your breasts before implants
2. The size of the implants placed
3. Body changes while having implants (think: weight loss or gain, pregnancy, menopause) 

It should come as no surprise that larger implants will have a larger effect on the natural breast than smaller ones. “Larger implants will lead to more distortion of the breasts — saggy skin and deflation,” Dr. Doft says. “A smaller implant will have less effect on the skin.” As such, removing small implants often results in what she describes as a “very natural,” “slightly ptotic” (read: saggy) breast.  

Similarly, women who naturally had smaller breasts pre-implants will see less of an effect post-implants. “If you had very small breasts before the implants, there is less of a change than if you had larger breasts as there is less skin and breast tissue to sag,” she explains. “Hormonal and weight changes will often make your breasts saggier, and, without the extra volume of the implant, your breasts will look more deflated and ptotic.”

Age also plays a role in how the breasts recover from implant removal. “Small breasts in young women may contract back to close to where they were,” Dr. Doft notes. “Older patients have less elastin and collagen in their skin and are less likely to revert back.” 

## **Achieving the Best Breast Implant Removal Results**
If someone truly wishes to have their breast implants removed, Dr. Doft always recommends a “complete removal.” But, to ensure patients are happy with their breasts post-op, she may suggest coupling it with additional procedures. “If the implant is large, they have loose skin, or they wish to have the best possible breast shape with their natural tissue, I often recommend a [breast lift](https://aedit.com/procedure/breast-lift) at the same time as the implant removal,” she says.  

And it’s not just additional breast surgeries that patients may add onto a breast implant removal. “Often, women who are removing breast implants are at the ‘next stage’ of life — meaning that they had implants placed in their twenties or early thirties and now it is 20 years later,” Dr. Doft shares. “They may want to have their eyes done, a [facelift](https://aedit.com/aedition/popularity-of-facelift-cosmetic-surgery-for-aging-sagging-neck), or a body contouring procedure, like a [tummy tuck](https://aedit.com/procedure/abdominoplasty) or [liposuction](https://aedit.com/procedure/tumescent-liposuction).” 

Assuming the patient is a candidate for such procedures, [doubling (or tripling) up](https://aedit.com/aedition/when-is-it-safe-to-combine-plastic-surgery-procedures) can be more economical for two reasons: “The cost of surgery is often less when multiple procedures are added together and the cost of downtime — time off from work, increased babysitting, vacation days — are less,” she says. 

## **The Takeaway**
Whether a patient is dealing with complications from breast implants or simply no longer wishes to have them, breast implant removal is often the best solution. Depending on factors like the size of the implants, the size of natural breasts, and the age of patient, breast sagging and deflation can occur post-op. In those cases, procedures like mastopexy (a.k.a. breast lift) can be performed in conjunction with the removal procedure to improve results. It should also be noted that, if a patient is simply interested in downsizing their current implants, a breast implant replacement — using a smaller size — is an option. Consulting with a board certified plastic surgeon will ensure patients get the best treatment for their needs.

AEDITION rejuvenators-min

Medical Aesthetics Collection | The AEDITION

Aesthetics

If you, like Chrissy Teigen, are considering removing your breast implants, you likely have a lot of questions. Here, The AEDITION breaks down everything you need to know about the process.

What Happens When You Have Breast Implants Removed

camylla-battani-son4VHt4Ld0-unsplash

With so many ingredients and chemicals packed into such small bottles and tubes, there is a lot of concern for pregnant and breastfeeding women around the safety of beauty and skincare products. While some ingredients are harmless, others carry potential risks or, even worse, are linked to birth defects.
 
## **FDA Drug Classifications**
The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has created a [specific drug classification system](https://chemm.nlm.nih.gov/pregnancycategories.htm) for pregnant women. Drugs are labeled on a six-point scale:

- **Category A**: No risk in controlled human studies
- **Category B**: No risk in other studies
- **Category C**: Risk not ruled out
- **Category D**: Positive evidence of risk
- **Category X**: Contraindicated in pregnancy

Typically, categories A and B are deemed safe for pregnant women, whereas the others should be avoided. The issue with the scale, however, is that it is meant for oral medication — not necessarily topicals. “It doesn't take into consideration if you apply it topically,” says [Jason Emer, MD](https://aedit.com/provider/jason-emer-md-722), a West Hollywood-based board certified dermatologist, of the FDA classification. “In my opinion, as a medical professional, I don't think that you're getting the same level of internal absorption by applying a little bit topically onto your skin as you would if you're taking it orally and using it as a pill.”

Dr. Emer uses isotretinoin, the active ingredient in Accutane (i.e. the oral medication used to treat acne), as an example. Taken orally, [Accutane](https://aedit.com/procedure/accutane) is in category X, which means it is contraindicated in pregnancy because it causes fetal harm. “That's why all the other [retinols and vitamin A](https://aedit.com/aedition/guide-to-vitamin-a-retinol-retinoids-in-skincare) are bunched in that category,” he says. 

## **Skincare Ingredients to Avoid During Pregnancy**
Given the overall lack of regulation in the beauty industry, there can be a lot of uncertainty surrounding skincare regimens during pregnancy. Following the FDA guidelines is the simplest (and safest) route, but Dr. Emer notes that it tends to be conservative given that it does not take topical forms into account. 

If you’ve read our [guide to cosmetic procedures to avoid during gestation and postpartum](https://aedit.com/aedition/safety-of-cosmetic-procedures-during-pregnancy-breastfeeding), you’ll find that there is a similar lack of research in skincare. “The majority of over-the-counter products have a lot of basic chemicals, but there isn't really research,” Dr. Emer says. 

Even so, there are certain ingredients that are generally paused during pregnancy. “Retinols, hydroquinone, and acne medications that are over-the-counter like benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid should all be avoided in pregnant and nursing moms,” says [Morgan Rabach, MD](https://aedit.com/provider/morgan-rabach-md-17913), a board certified dermatologist and co-found of LM Medical in New York City. 

Below is a list of some of the most common ingredients to avoid:

### **Benzoyl Peroxide**
While hormonal acne is a common skin concern during pregnancy, benzoyl peroxide falls under category C and is, therefore, not recommended for use during pregnancy. 

### **Chemical Sunscreens** 
We’re the first ones to tell you that you need to wear sunscreen all day, every day, but it might be best to [switch to physical (mineral) sunscreens](https://aedit.com/aedition/difference-between-chemical-sunscreen-physical-mineral-sunscreen) during gestation. “Chemical sunscreens, like oxybenzone and avobenzone, are hormone disruptors,” Dr. Emer explains. “People feel that if they are absorbed topically, they would affect the hormones that babies need to grow.”

### **Dihydroxyacetone (DHA)**
The bronzing agent in many spray and self tanners, dihydroxyacetone (DHA) is to be avoided during pregnancy. “There are certain self-tanners now that don't have DHA and are a little bit more healthy for the skin,” Dr. Emer says. One such example? [The Chemistry Brand Glow Oil](https://chemistrybrand.deciem.com/product/glow-oil).

### **Formaldehyde**
Found in some nail polishes and hair-straightening treatments, the chemical has been linked to certain types of cancer and nervous system conditions. If possible, it’s best of all women — not just pregnant ones — to avoid products with formaldehyde.

### **Hydroquinone**
While the skin-lightening agent is used to treat dark spots and melasma (two skin conditions that are common during pregnancy), hydroquinone should be avoided during pregnancy. While no research has been done looking at the impact of the ingredient on a fetus, [studies have shown](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK539693/) as much as 45 percent of the medication is absorbed into the skin after topical application

### **Retinoids**
As Dr. Emer explains, [vitamin A derivatives](https://aedit.com/aedition/guide-to-vitamin-a-retinol-retinoids-in-skincare) are generally avoided during pregnancy because of the links between oral isotretinoin and birth defects. Tazarotene and isotretinoin are classified category X, though most other retinoids find themselves in category C — meaning there isn’t enough research.

### **Salicylic Acid**
Salicylic acid is a derivative of aspirin (a.k.a. willow bark extract). “People say not to take aspirin during pregnancy, but that's orally,” Dr. Emer says. While it’s unlikely to cause harm if used topically, [studies have suggested](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11770244) that taking salicylic acid orally in the late stages of pregnancy may increase the risk for intracranial bleeding in the fetus.

## **Skincare Ingredients That Are Safe For Pregnancy**
So, what skincare is safe for moms to be and new mothers? “Pregnant and nursing moms can use skincare products that contain [hyaluronic acid](https://aedit.com/aedition/guide-to-hyaluronic-acid-in-skincare-dermal-filler), peptides, growth factors, and [mineral] sunscreens,” Dr. Rabach says. Below are a few of our favorites:

### **Azelaic Acid**
Part of category B, the antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory ingredient is safe for women who are pregnant and breastfeeding. “It’s derived from a wheat plant and is good for addressing texture and pigmentation,” Dr. Rabach shares.

### **Bakuchiol**
Known as a natural alternative to retinol, Dr. Emer recommends products from the [AnteAGE MD](https://anteage.com/) line because it contains stem cells, vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, and — you guessed it — bakuchiol. “It’s derived from an Indian plant and is equivalent to, if not better, than retinol,” he shares. “It’s actually been shown to be really good for darker skin types and those that get melasma and pigmentation.” 

### **Hyaluronic Acid (HA)**
Dr. Rabach is a fan of this ultra-hydrating, naturally occurring compound that can hold 1,000 times its weight in water. 

### **Rosehip Oil** 
“There is some specific research on rosehip oil being used as an alternative to retinol because it has a lot of beta carotene [vitamin C ](https://aedit.com/aedition/guide-to-topical-vitamin-c-in-skincare)in it,” Dr. Emer shares. Packed with molecules that are small enough to penetrate the skin, the botanical extract improves moisture and collagen levels, while reducing fine lines and wrinkles.

## **The Takeaway**
While there is a lot that is unknown about the safety of skincare ingredients during pregnancy and breastfeeding, most skin experts recommend following the pregnancy drug classification from the FDA. All the while, there are still plenty of active ingredients that can treat everything from acne to melasma. Consulting with a board certified dermatologist and learning how to [read the label](https://aedit.com/aedition/category/read-the-label) will ensure the best and safest treatment plan for your skin concerns.

With so many ingredients packed into such small bottles, there is a lot of concern for pregnant and breastfeeding women around the safety of their skincare products. The AEDITON is here to decode it.

procedures

by concern

by area

most researched

The AEDITION

collections

most popular

BEAUTY,
AEDITED BY YOU

The expert portal for beauty
treatments,
by the doctors
& editors that matter.

Procedures by Area

From The AEDITION

Procedures by Concern