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With selfies, Instagram, filters, and, more recently, Zoom calls, millennials are likely the generation that has spent the most time looking at themselves in history. The hyper-awareness about appearances that is present for those between the ages of 25 and 35 has already started to change the shape of aesthetic medicine. In the past, cosmetic procedures have served as a way to reverse signs of aging. Today, those same treatments are being used preventatively by younger patients to tweak their appearance and thwart the aging process. 

From skincare to supplements and treatments to tweakments, there is an undeniable shift in the beauty and wellness markets that is largely led by millennials’ new approach to the market. That new approach is often guided by both celebrity and social media influence So, how exactly are these habits changing the cosmetic procedure landscape? Here, we take a look at the latest industry figures and speak to millennial patients to find out how they feel their generation is changing the face of aesthetic medicine.

## **What’s Trending for the Face**

### **1. Tweakments**
Tweakments, or non-surgical cosmetic procedures, are one of the areas that millennials are investing in heavily. [Tweakements](https://aedit.com/aedition/why-im-all-about-tweakments) include everything from medi-facials to injectables. Like so-called ‘[prejuvenation](https://aedit.com/aedition/i-was-practicing-prejuvenation-before-it-was-a-trend)’ procedures, they offer discrete results with little downtime. As the results of the [American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery’s (AAFPRS) 2019 annual survey](https://www.americanspa.com/medical-spa/aafprs-annual-survey-reveals-increase-facial-plastic-surgery) show, millennials seem to be particularly keen on skin resurfacing procedures like [lasers and chemical peels](https://aedit.com/aedition/chemical-peel-vs-laser-treatment-what-is-best-for-your-skin). The number of skin treatments performed by respondents rose by 39 percent year over year between 2018 and 2019. While tweakments are minimally invasive, they are still professional procedures that should be performed by a board certified provider or similar expert. 

### **2. Injectables**
The popularity of injectables for those in their early twenties and thirties is one of the most notable shifts millennials are making in the aesthetics industry. According to the AAFPRS, the use of injectable neurotoxins (think: [Botox®, Dysport®, Jeuveau®, and Xeomin®](https://aedit.com/aedition/comparing-neurotoxin-botulinum-type-a-injections-botox-dysport-jeuveau-xeomin)) and [dermal fillers](https://aedit.com/aedition/everything-you-need-to-know-about-dermal-fillers) rose by 12 and 13 percent respectively last year. The trend comes as patients — particularly those in the millennial age bracket — are telling practitioners that looking good in selfies is a factor that’s leading them to have minimally invasive procedures (hello, ‘[Instagram Face](https://www.newyorker.com/culture/decade-in-review/the-age-of-instagram-face)’). 

### **3. Skincare**
While in-office treatments and procedures are becoming a routine part of skincare, a thoughtful at-home skincare regimen is paramount to maintaining (and boosting!) results. [The NPD Group reports](https://www.npd.com/wps/portal/npd/us/news/press-releases/2020/us-prestige-beauty-industry-generates-18-8-billion-in-sales-for-2019--driven-by-skincare-reports-the-npd-group/) that $5.9 billion was spent on skincare in 2019, with an increased interest in [‘natural’ beauty](https://aedit.com/aedition/what-clean-green-natural-mean-for-beauty-makeup-skincare-products) contributing to the growth. Natural brands accounted for 30 percent of the total skincare market, and sales grew by 14 percent over 2018.

Coupled with the explosion of the wellness industry (valued at $4.5 trillion in 2018, [according to the Global Wellness Institute](https://globalwellnessinstitute.org/press-room/statistics-and-facts/)), millennials are more invested in the health of their skin and general wellbeing than previous generations. They are also increasingly interested in [personalization](https://aedit.com/aedition/rise-of-personalized-beauty-makeup-skincare-brands). According to [Practical Dermatology](https://practicaldermatology.com/articles/2018-mar/introducingthe-millennial-patient), millennial patients are interested in getting expert advice on which products to use and are investing in serums and creams that are customized specifically for their skin type and concerns. 

## **What’s Trending for the Body**

### **1. Body Contouring**
When it comes to cosmetic procedures on their bodies, millennials are increasingly interested in non-surgical body contouring services like [CoolSculpting®](https://aedit.com/procedure/cool-sculpting) and [EMSculpt®](https://aedit.com/aedition/why-everyone-is-talking-about-emsculpt) that reduce fat and tone muscles in areas that are difficult to target through diet and exercise alone. And with millennials now having children of their own, there is also a rise in millennial women turning to body contouring procedures to return to their prenatal bodies. So-called ‘[mommy makeovers](https://aedit.com/aedition/the-mommy-makeover-how-to-bounce-back-after-a-baby)’ can involve both invasive and non-invasive procedures for the face and body.

### **2. Breast Implants**
Like facelifts, breast augmentation has never truly gone out of style. And millennials are just as keen on the procedure as generations past — albeit with ever-evolving aesthetic preferences. [Smaller, natural-looking breast implants](https://aedit.com/aedition/why-women-are-getting-smaller-breast-implants) are more popular than ever, and some patients are opting for [hybrid procedures](https://aedit.com/aedition/hybrid-breast-augmentation-with-implants-fat-transfer) that combine implants with autologous fat transfers for a more customized result. 

### **3. Wellness**
As the first digitally native generation, millennials have more access to information than ever before and have seemingly embraced the concept of beauty from the inside out. From [IV vitamin drips](https://aedit.com/aedition/iv-nutrient-drip-therapy-for-skincare-wellness) and [supplements](https://aedit.com/aedition/vitamins-supplements-to-avoid-before-cosmetic-surgery) to [light therapy](https://aedit.com/aedition/everything-you-need-to-know-about-the-benefits-of-light-therapy) and [self care](https://aedit.com/aedition/at-home-wellness-routine-for-immunity-mental-health-stress), millennials are willing to invest in their health. And, more often than not, they are willing to speak openly about it.

## **Patient Perspective**
To better understand the millennial aesthetic market, we spoke to two women who have had cosmetic procedures about why they chose to seek treatment and the role they think their peers played in their decision-making process.

### **Jessica, 28, Long Beach, CA**
*Jessica, 28, started getting regular Botox® injections two years ago, and she opted for lip and cheek fillers earlier this year. As it turns out, social media played a part in determining her tweakment regimen.* 

<Dialogue>
  <Question party={The AEDITION}>
    What procedures have you had and why did you choose them?
  </Question>
  <Response party={Jessica}>
    So far, I have had Botox® and fillers. I decided to have them for a few reasons but mostly because I wanted to start before things get ‘bad.’ I’d like to be able to stick to minimally invasive procedures for as long as possible, so opting to start young felt like it made sense — in terms of the Botox® anyway. The fillers were more of a personal choice. I feel like most people our age are having minor procedures now. Part of me wanted to keep up, but also I just want to look at myself and feel good about the person who looks back at me.
  </Response>
  <Question party={The AEDITION}>
    What role (if any) did social media play in your decision-making process?
  </Question>
  <Response party={Jessica}>
    I think it would be hard to deny the fact that social media influences most of our choices these days. In some way or another, seeing ‘perfect’ faces every day must make us want to look better ourselves. I think — especially for younger people — it must be difficult to not get sucked into wanting to look like all the perfect-looking Instagram models. But I feel like [the millennial] generation is a little bit older, and, on the whole, we’re looking more for enhancement than a complete makeover.
  </Response>
  <Question party={The AEDITION}>
    Do you feel like your peers have a different attitude about cosmetic procedures than your elders?
  </Question>
  <Response party={Jessica}>
    I think we’re more open about it. I don’t necessarily think more people in this age bracket are having procedures, I just think that instead of going into hiding or ‘going skiing’ and actually having a procedure in that time off, we’re just being upfront about it. I think it’s nice, to be honest. At least when I see photos of people my age, I can safely assume they’ve had something done to them — whether it’s cosmetic procedures or filters and photoshop. It makes me feel better about myself.
  </Response>
</Dialogue>

### **Emilia, 30, Houston, TX**
*Emilia, 30, had a ‘mommy makeover’ after having her second child last year. She believes that social media has not only influenced her to take better care of herself but has also allowed her to feel less guilty about wanting to look her best.*

<Dialogue>
  <Question party={The AEDITION}>
    What procedures have you had and why did you choose them?
  </Question>
  <Response party={Emilia}>
    I had a mommy makeover which for me included a breast augmentation and liposuction. I decided to have the surgery after having my second child because my body had changed a lot and I didn’t feel like myself anymore. I wanted to be able to be comfortable in my skin again. I consulted a couple of surgeons and settled on the treatment plan after looking at all my options.
  </Response>
  <Question party={The AEDITION}>
    What role (if any) did social media play in your decision-making process?
  </Question>
  <Response party={Emilia}>
    For me, social media has been a place to learn that it’s okay to want to better myself. If that means physically bettering myself through surgery, then that’s ok. It’s ok for us to honor our bodies in any way that we want to — without harming others, of course. I don’t see it so much as outside pressure. I did when I was younger, for sure, but I think as people get older they’re often able to refine their circle a bit more and lose some of those judgemental people from their online lives.
  </Response>
  <Question party={The AEDITION}>
    Do you feel like your peers have a different attitude about cosmetic procedures than your elders?
  </Question>
  <Response party={Emilia}>
    I know for a fact that we do because I speak to my mother’s friends about my surgeries on a semi-regular basis. They’re very intrigued about it all! One of her friends told me about someone she knew who had surgery a while after having her children, but she would never admit to having had anything done. In my experience, millennials are more open about surgeries they have had and are, on the whole, happy to admit that they had the procedure because they like looking nice — not for any deeper or more meaningful reason. If there is one, that’s great. But it’s not needed like it used to be.
  </Response>
</Dialogue>

## **The Takeaway**
The numbers don’t lie. Millennials are increasingly interested in minimally invasive cosmetic procedures and at-home beauty and wellness practices that allow them to look and feel their best. Social media plays an undeniable role in dictating and driving these trends, which will no doubt continue to have an impact on millennials, gen Z, and beyond.

AEDITION trendsetters-min

Now Trending Collection | The AEDITION

Now Trending

From skincare to supplements and treatments to tweakments, there is an undeniable shift in the beauty and aesthetics industries that is largely led by millennials. Here, The AEDITION breaks down what it all means.

Millennial Cosmetic Surgery And Aesthetic Medicine Trends

How Millennials Are Changing The Face Of Aesthetic Medicine

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Let’s be real: Acne is the great equalizer. Like it or not, most of us have — at some point or another — dealt with it. Whether it’s cystic, adolescence-related, or the hormonal acne that can affect us well into our twenties, thirties, and forties, just about everyone has a relationship with acne that ranges from casual to decades-long. 

Fortunately, there is much that can be done to heal and even prevent active breakouts, so long as you know what kind of acne you are treating. Here, a guide to the different types of acne that can crop up on the face and body alongside direct-from-the-dermatologist tips on how to address it from an ingredient, product, and prescription perspective. 

## **1. Comedones**
While ‘comedone’ is the technical term, you most likely know this type of non-inflammatory acne as ‘blackheads’ and ‘whiteheads.’ As such, there are two types of comedones:
 
1. **Closed Comedones** (a.k.a. whiteheads): Non-inflammatory lesions that form when the pore closes on top of a buildup of sebum and dead skin cells, resulting in a small — usually white — bump.
2. **Open Comedones** (a.k.a. blackheads): Non-inflammatory lesions that occur when the pore remains open despite being clogged with excess oil and dead skin cells, causing a dark-colored spot on the surface of the skin.

“They are variations of congested pores filled with compacted dead skin cells, primarily keratin proteins and sebum,” says [Jessica Weiser, MD](https://www.weiserskin.com/), a board certified dermatologist and founder of Weiser Skin in New York City. “Open comedones are true blackheads — clogged pores with dilated openings at the skin surface — whereas closed comedones have the same compacted keratin plug, but a thin layer of skin typically obstructs the follicle opening.”

As Connecticut-based board certified dermatologist [Mona Gohara, MD](https://dermatologyofct.com/about/our-providers/mona-gohara-m-d/), explains, comedonal acne often affects teenagers due to increased oil production. “This is typical around puberty,” she says. But adults can deal with blackheads and whiteheads, too. “They can also form from skincare that is too occlusive, hair products, and friction from clothing that is too tight,” Dr. Gohara adds. 

### **Recommended Treatments for Comedones** 

- Vitamin A derivatives (think: retinol and retinoids)
- Alpha Hydroxy Acids (i.e. glycolic acid)
- Beta Hydroxy Acids (read: salicylic acid)
- Azelaic Acid
- Benzoyl Peroxide

One thing all our experts agree on? Comedonal acne is best treated with topical [vitamin A derivatives](https://aedit.com/aedition/guide-to-vitamin-a-retinol-retinoids-in-skincare), like prescription retinoids and over-the-counter retinols. “I think of [topical retinoids] as pipe cleaners for your skin,” says [Joshua Zeichner, MD](http://www.zeichnerdermatology.com/), a board certified dermatologist and director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City. “At the same time, they help reduce inflammation.” 

Dr. Gohara, for one, is a fan of over-the-counter [Differin](https://www.target.com/p/differin-adapalene-gel-0-1-acne-treatment-15g/-/A-51346324) and prescription Retin-A and Tazorac. [Altreno](https://www.altreno.com/) is another prescription-strength option that is specifically formulated for sensitive skin. While many vitamin A derivatives can be irritating, Altreno “contains hydrating ingredients that reduce potential irritation,” Dr. Zeichner says. On the OTC retinol front, Dr. Weiser recommends [Skin Better AlphaRet Overnight Cream](https://skinbetter.com/products/rejuvenate-alpharet-overnight-cream/), [Allies of Skin 1A Retinal + Peptides Overnight Mask](https://www.dermstore.com/product_1A+Retinal+Peptides+Overnight+Mask_73733.htm), and [SkinCeuticals Retinol 1.0](https://www.dermstore.com/product_Retinol+10+Maximum+Strength+Refining+Night+Cream_4505.htm). 

If retinoids and retinol are not for you, most exfoliating ingredients should do the trick. Since this type of acne is primarily due to blockage of the follicle, New York City-based board certified dermatologist [Sejal Shah, MD](https://aedit.com/provider/sejal-shah-md-17984), generally recommends using products featuring ingredients that increase cell turnover like hydroxy acids and azelaic acid. She likes [La Roche Posay Effaclar Medicated Gel Face Cleanser](https://www.target.com/p/la-roche-posay-effaclar-medicated-gel-face-cleanser-for-acne-prone-skin-6-76-fl-oz/-/A-16452472) and [Nip + Fab Salicylic Fix Pads](https://www.nipandfab.com/us/skincare/range/teen-skin-fix-salicylic-acid/teen-skin-salicylic-acid-day-pads). Benzoyl peroxide is another good option, says Dr. Gohara, adding that non-comedogenic products are a must for those prone to comedonal acne. “It should say that on the label,” she shares. 
 
If you’re looking for [cleaner formulas](https://aedit.com/aedition/what-clean-green-natural-mean-for-beauty-makeup-skincare-products) that are just as effective at eradicating non-inflammatory acne, try the [Orveda Cleansing Bamboo & Enzymatic Water](https://orveda.com/us/cleansing-bamboo-enzymatic-water) to remove makeup. The [Susanne Kaufmann Tonic Clarifying](https://skinbiologique.com/products/susanne-kaufmann-tonic-clarifying), meanwhile, is a great pick to refresh the complexion and reduce inflammation. To finish off this clean routine, apply the [African Botanics Neroli Infused Marula Oil](https://credobeauty.com/products/african-botanics-neroli-infused-marula-oil) morning and night to balance oily skin. 
 
## **2. Hormonal Acne**
Not just for teenagers, hormonal acne can stay with women well into their late thirties and forties, Dr. Gohara says. Unlike the superficial nature of non-inflammatory comedones, Dr. Weiser explains that hormonal acne is often “deep, painful cystic papules or nodules” that appear on the jaw, chin, and neck. “Hormonal breakouts are triggered by internal hormones levels including androgens (testosterone) and cortisol (stress hormone) levels,” she notes, which means oral contraceptives can both cause *and* treat it.

### **Recommended Treatments for Hormonal Acne**

- Oral medications like Sprionolactone and Accutane
- Oral Contraceptives
- Blue Light Therapy
- Chemical Peels
- Laser Treatments

There isn’t all that much that can be done at home to treat hormonal acne because the lesions occur deep beneath the surface of the skin and very rarely ever come to the surface, Dr. Weiser says. “Warm compresses can be helpful at reducing swelling,” she explains. “But these lesions are more likely to rupture under the skin surface, further worsening the inflammation and swelling and risking a larger and more serious skin infection.”
 
While OTC products tend to not work for this type of acne, there are prescription oral medications that offer some relief. “Prescription treatments that internally control hormones — such as [spironolactone](https://aedit.com/procedure/spironolactone-for-acne-treatment) and certain types of oral contraceptives — are generally the most effective ways to control this hormonally-driven acne,” Dr. Weisner says. Isotretinoin (a.k.a. [Accutane](https://aedit.com/procedure/spironolactone-for-acne-treatment)) is another option.

When it comes to in-office procedures, [blue light therapy](https://aedit.com/aedition/everything-you-need-to-know-about-the-benefits-of-light-therapy), [chemical peels, and laser treatments](https://aedit.com/aedition/chemical-peel-vs-laser-treatment-what-is-best-for-your-skin) can all be effective in treating hormonal acne.
 
## **3. Body Acne**
Typically caused by friction (often from athletic gear) and not changing out of clothing after working out, Dr. Gohara says that body acne is most common on the chest, shoulders, and back. Appearing in the form of non-inflammatory comedones and inflammatory pustules and papules, body breakouts can impact men and women of all ages. “While body acne is quite common in puberty and teens, it can also afflict adult men and women, especially those who naturally sweat excessively or exercise intensely,” Dr. Weiser says. She adds that it’s important to cleanse skin immediately after sweating to prevent sebum, bacteria, and debris from sitting on the surface of the skin for prolonged periods.

### **Recommended Treatments for Body Acne**

- Topical Salicylic Acid and Benzoyl Peroxide 
- Oral medications

The treatments that body acne responds to depends on the type of lesions, Dr. Shah notes. “If mild or mild-moderate, it may respond to topical treatments,” she says. “But more moderate to severe body acne may require oral medication.”
 
To treat mild to moderate body acne, Dr. Gohara recommends body washes formulated with benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid body washes, like the [CeraVe SA Body Wash](https://www.amazon.com/CeraVe-Salicylic-Ounce-Fragrance-Exfoliate/dp/B077TWXCQV). In addition to BHA-spiked washes, Dr. Weiser says to look for a combination of products that contain antimicrobial ingredients and retinol to control oil glands. She likes [Murad Acne Control Body Wash](https://www.murad.com/product/acne-body-wash/) and [ZO Skin Health Oil Control Acne Pads](https://zoskinhealth.com/products/getting-skin-ready/acne-treatment-pads).
 
## **4. Nodules or Cystic Acne**
Cysts refer to swollen, red pimples that manifest as both small pustules (a pus-filled whitehead) at the skin surface and deeper lesions beneath the skin. Inflammatory acne occurs as a result of bacteria (usually Propionibacterium acnes, known as P. acnes) in the lesions that triggers the body to form an immune reaction. “These lesions often still begin as clogged pores due to excess oil production that become secondarily infected with bacteria,” Dr. Weiser says. Those who deal with cystic acne and nodules are typically predisposed to it. Dr. Gohara says that this type of acne is hormonal and “often this is a genetic factor.”

### **Recommended Treatments for Cystic Acne**

- Topical products with Benzoyl Peroxide, Retinoids, Sulfur, and Hydroxy Acids
- Oral medications like Sprionolactone and Accutane 
- Steroid Injections

Due to the severity of this acne, cysts and nodules generally require combination therapy, as medications and topical treatments alone are usually not effective. “It may be helpful to use topical benzoyl peroxide products, such as [PanOxyl Acne Foaming Wash](https://www.target.com/p/panoxyl-acne-foaming-wash-with-10-benzoyl-peroxide-5-5oz/-/A-14984165), retinoids, or hydroxy acids,” Dr. Shah says. “But often this type of acne responds better to oral medications — spironolactone in women and isotretinoin.”

Dr. Weiser notes that treatment of inflammatory acne involves antimicrobial therapy to address the bacterial component and treatment of the underlying oil production and congestion. “Look for products that contain antibacterial sulfur and probiotics, in addition to prescription-strength antibacterial topical medications,” she says. Her picks include [111Skin 3 Phase Anti Blemish Booster](https://www.spacenk.com/us/en_US/skincare/treatment/blemish-acne-treatment/3-phase-anti-blemish-booster-MUK300051736.html) and [Eminence Clear Skin Probiotic Mask](https://eminenceorganics.com/us/product/clear-skin-probiotic-masque). 
 
For acutely inflamed lesions, Dr. Shah says that steroid injections can also be helpful.

## **The Takeaway**
Whether you are dealing with acne on the face or body, there is much that can be done to speed up the healing process and — with regular maintenance — prevent it from recurring. Topical retinoids, hydroxy acids, and benzoyl peroxide can be used to effectively treat non-inflammatory comedonal acne (think: blackheads and whiteheads). When it comes to treating inflammatory hormonal, body, and cystic acne, a combination of topical skincare (OTC and prescription), oral medication, and professional procedures may be needed. Consulting with a board certified dermatologist will ensure you receive the best treatment regimen for your acne.


AEDITION minimalists-min

Wellness Collection | The AEDITION

Wellness

A guide to the different types of acne that can crop up on the face and body — and direct-from-the-dermatologist tips on how to treat and prevent it.

How To Treat Hormonal Acne, Body Acne, Cystic Acne, Whiteheads, Blackheads

How To Treat The Most Common Types of Face And Body Acne

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*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.”

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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

Used in regenerative medicine that can be combined with PRP to treat hair loss and encourage hair growth and thickening.

Thinning Hair

Receding Hairline

Bald Spots

PRP has been used for hairless treatment and can also be combined with Acellular matrix to encourage better and longer lasting results. Acell is a porcine derived powder that has regenerative properties similar to stem cells. When combined with PRP concentrate, the serum can then be injected into the scalp to encourage hair growth. The PRP and Acell matrix helps to heal damaged hair follicles which in turn allows for more, and thicker hair growth. 

Before injection, a small amount of blood will be drawn from the patient’s arm. The blood will be placed in a centrifuge to separate the platelet rich plasma, or PRP. The PRP will then be mixed with the powder Acell product. The serum can then be injected into parts of the scalp that are experiencing hair thinning.

ACell and PRP Injections for Hair Loss

Gain back your hair through hair restoration treatments and restore a full head of hair.

Hair Restoration

For many men and women beginning to lose their hair, or have lost it completely, going bald can often be traumatic. If you’re suffering from hair loss, you know firsthand how embarrassing and stressful it can be. Fortunately, there are treatments that can work to effectively stimulate new hair growth in balding areas and eventually restore a full head of hair. These treatments come in a variety of applications with many different benefits tailored to work properly with your specific hair loss.

Hair

Head

ACell matrix, a porcine derived powder that is used in regenerative medicine, can be combined with PRP for hair loss treatment. This therapy helps to repair damaged hair follicles on the scalp and encourages hair growth and thickening.

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