Aloe Vera & Vitamin E Acetate

Allopathic
Indications

Dermatological Uses:

  • Treatment of dry, chapped, or rough skin
  • Relief of minor burns, sunburn, and skin irritation
  • Adjunctive therapy for wound healing
  • Supportive treatment in atopic dermatitis and eczema
  • Management of stretch marks and skin inflammation

Cosmetic/Preventive Uses:

  • Skin moisturization and hydration
  • Prevention of premature skin aging
  • Support for skin elasticity and repair
  • Antioxidant protection against environmental damage
Dosage & Administration

Adults:

  • Topical Application: Apply a thin layer 1–3 times daily on clean, dry affected skin.
  • Burns/Sunburn: Apply liberally 2–4 times daily or as needed.
  • Cosmetic Use: Once or twice daily as a moisturizer.

Pediatric Use:

  • Safe for children above 2 years under supervision. Apply a thin layer to the affected area 1–2 times daily.

Elderly:

  • No specific dose adjustment is required; use as in adults unless skin sensitivity is observed.

Special Populations:

  • Renal/Hepatic Impairment: No dose adjustment necessary as systemic absorption is negligible.

Route of Administration:

  • Topical use only. Not for oral, ophthalmic, or intravaginal use.
Mechanism of Action (MOA)

Aloe Vera contains bioactive compounds such as polysaccharides, glycoproteins, and amino acids that promote wound healing by stimulating fibroblast activity, enhancing collagen synthesis, and maintaining skin hydration. It exhibits anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties. Vitamin E Acetate (tocopheryl acetate) is a stable form of Vitamin E that penetrates the skin and is converted to active Vitamin E (alpha-tocopherol). It scavenges free radicals, reduces oxidative stress, and protects skin cells from UV-induced damage. Together, the combination supports epithelial regeneration, maintains skin barrier function, and promotes overall skin health.

Pharmacokinetics

Aloe Vera (topical):

  • Absorption: Minimal systemic absorption when applied to intact skin.
  • Distribution: Localized to skin layers.
  • Metabolism: Metabolized locally in the skin; systemic data limited.
  • Excretion: Insignificant systemic excretion.

Vitamin E Acetate (topical):

  • Absorption: Slow dermal absorption; hydrolyzed to free Vitamin E.
  • Bioavailability: Low systemic availability via topical route.
  • Metabolism: Converted to active alpha-tocopherol in the skin.
  • Elimination: Minimal systemic elimination via urine/feces if absorbed.
Pregnancy Category & Lactation
  • Pregnancy: Considered safe for external use during pregnancy. No adverse effects reported with topical use. However, avoid application on large areas or broken skin.
  • Lactation: Safe for breastfeeding mothers. Avoid application on or near the nipple area to prevent infant ingestion.
  • Note: Limited systemic absorption reduces risk. Use with caution in absence of sufficient safety data for prolonged use.
Therapeutic Class
  • Primary Class: Skin Moisturizer and Emollient
  • Sub-class: Herbal-Derived Antioxidant and Skin Barrier Support Agent
Contraindications
  • Known hypersensitivity to Aloe Vera, Vitamin E, or formulation excipients
  • Severe allergic skin conditions or active dermatoses at application site
  • Open deep wounds unless directed by a physician
Warnings & Precautions
  • Avoid contact with eyes, mucous membranes, or broken skin unless advised.
  • Discontinue use if signs of allergic reaction (rash, redness, itching) appear.
  • Use with caution in patients with known sensitivities to plant-based products.
  • Not recommended for infected or oozing skin lesions.
  • Long-term or extensive use without medical supervision is discouraged.
Side Effects

Common (usually mild):

  • Local irritation (burning, stinging, redness)
  • Dryness or peeling with prolonged use

Less Common/Rare:

  • Allergic contact dermatitis
  • Urticaria or pruritus
  • Photosensitivity reactions (rare)

Serious Reactions (very rare):

  • Anaphylaxis in severe hypersensitivity (topical agents rarely cause systemic reactions)
Drug Interactions
  • Drug-Drug: None reported with topical application.
  • Drug-Food: Not applicable.
  • Drug-Alcohol: No known interactions.
  • Enzyme System Involvement: Not systemically metabolized via CYP450; enzyme interaction unlikely.
Recent Updates or Guidelines
  • No major regulatory changes in indication or safety as of the latest global updates.
  • Continued endorsement for use in skin hydration, minor burn care, and as adjunctive therapy for eczema and dermatitis.
  • Emphasis on avoiding use over large body surfaces during pregnancy due to limited systemic data.
Storage Conditions
  • Temperature: Store at 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F); excursions permitted between 15°C and 30°C.
  • Light: Protect from direct sunlight.
  • Humidity: Keep in a dry place; tightly close the cap after use.
  • Handling: Do not freeze. Shake if lotion-based formulation. Avoid contamination by touching the applicator to the skin directly.