This study shows that there is no benefit to the cosmetic outcome of scars by applying vitamin E after skin surgery and that the application of topical vitamin E may actually be detrimental to the cosmetic appearance of a scar. In 90% of the cases in this study, topical vitamin E either had no effect on, or actually worsened, the cosmetic appearance of scars. Of the patients studied, 33% developed a contact dermatitis to the vitamin E. Therefore we conclude that use of topical vitamin E on surgical wounds should be discouraged.

Vitamin E

Health conditions analyzed in this study

Erythema

1 supplement Slightly Negative Vitamin E

Functions related to this study

Antioxidant potential

1 supplement Slightly Negative Vitamin E

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Body systems related to this study

Integumentary system

1 supplement Vitamin E