Synonyms:

Vitamin E.

Uses:

Tocopheryl acetateis a common vitamin supplement.  It is the ester of acetic acid and tocopherol (vitamin E). It is often used in dermatological products such as skin creams. Some websites have incorrectly linked tocopheryl acetate to cancer, misinterpreting the studies they reference. There are no links between Tocopheryl acetate and cancer and the product is on the safe list of cosmetic ingredients in both the EU and North America. Tocopheryl acetate is used as an alternative to tocopherol itself because the phenolic hydroxyl group is blocked, providing a less acidic product. It is believed that the acetate is slowly hydrolyzed once it is absorbed into the skin, regenerating tocopherol and providing protection against the sun's ultraviolet rays.