HomeIngredient LibraryTocopherol

Antioxidant

Tocopherol

Tocopherol is a antioxidant, emollient, active used in cosmetic and personal-care formulation. Typical use level is 0.01%–1%. It is oil-soluble.

At a glance

CAS number
1406-66-2
INCI name
Tocopherol
Function
antioxidant, emollient, active
Typical use level
0.01%–1%
Solubility
oil

CAS number and synonyms are sourced from PubChem. Function, usage levels, pH and compatibility are AI-assisted formulation guidance — verify against your supplier's technical data sheet and applicable regulations before use.

Also known as

Tocopherols Methyltocols Lasar UnoVit VitaE Vitamin Emp E Vicotrat Micorvit E E Mulsin VitaPlus E Vitamin E mp Vitamin E-mp

Compatibility

Works well with:
Vitamin C (stabilized derivatives) Retinol Niacinamide Squalane Jojoba Oil Rosehip Oil BHT Ferulic Acid Coenzyme Q10 Lecithin

Use caution with:
L-Ascorbic Acid High-concentration Iron Salts Strong Oxidizing Agents

L-Ascorbic Acid in its pure form can act as a pro-oxidant in combination with Tocopherol under certain conditions, though stabilized vitamin C derivatives are generally compatible. High concentrations of iron salts or strong oxidizing agents can degrade Tocopherol and reduce its antioxidant efficacy. Tocopherol works synergistically with Ferulic Acid and stabilized Vitamin C, which can regenerate spent Tocopherol.

Formulation notes

Exists as alpha, beta, gamma, and delta isomers; alpha-tocopherol is most biologically active. Use at low levels (typically 0.05–0.5%) in leave-on products to protect formula lipids from oxidative rancidity. EU Cosmetics Regulation permits up to 0.5% in rinse-off products due to potential sensitization concerns at higher levels. Best added to the oil phase; protect from light and heat during processing.

Frequently asked questions

What is Tocopherol?

Tocopherol is a antioxidant, emollient, active used in cosmetic and personal-care formulation. Typical use level is 0.01%–1%. It is oil-soluble.

What is Tocopherol used for?

Tocopherol is used as antioxidant, emollient, active in cosmetic and personal-care formulations.

What is the typical use level of Tocopherol?

Tocopherol is typically used at 0.01%–1% in the finished formulation. Always confirm against your supplier's technical data sheet.

What is the CAS number of Tocopherol?

The CAS registry number for Tocopherol is 1406-66-2. Its INCI name is Tocopherol.

What ingredients are compatible with Tocopherol?

Tocopherol works well with Vitamin C (stabilized derivatives), Retinol, Niacinamide, Squalane, Jojoba Oil, Rosehip Oil, BHT, Ferulic Acid, Coenzyme Q10, Lecithin. Use caution when combining it with L-Ascorbic Acid, High-concentration Iron Salts, Strong Oxidizing Agents.

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