What is Tocophereth-12?
Tocophereth-12, also known as 3,4-Dihydro-2,5,7,8-tetramethyl-2-(4,8,12-trimethyltridecyl)-2H-benzopyran-6-ol, ethoxylated (12 mol EO average molar ratio), is a synthetic compound that is commonly used in the cosmetics industry. It is derived from Tocopherol, commonly known as Vitamin E, which is a naturally occurring antioxidant found in various foods such as nuts, seeds, and leafy green vegetables.
The use of Tocophereth-12 in cosmetics can be traced back to the 20th century when the benefits of Vitamin E to the skin were discovered. Over time, scientists found a way to modify Tocopherol to enhance its antioxidant properties and increase its stability, resulting in the creation of Tocophereth-12.
The production of Tocophereth-12 involves a process known as ethoxylation, where Tocopherol is reacted with ethylene oxide to produce an ethoxylated compound. This process increases the water-solubility of Tocophereth-12, making it more suitable for use in a wide range of cosmetic products.
While Tocophereth-12 shares similar antioxidant and skin conditioning properties with other Vitamin E derivatives, its unique ethoxylated structure sets it apart. This structure allows Tocophereth-12 to function not only as an antioxidant and skin conditioner, but also as a cleansing agent. This multifunctional nature makes it a valuable ingredient in the cosmetics industry.
Tocophereth-12 is typically used in a variety of cosmetic products, including moisturizers, serums, cleansers, and anti-aging treatments. Its antioxidant properties help to protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals, while its skin conditioning and cleansing properties help to keep the skin clean, soft, and healthy.
Benefits and Uses
In this section, we will delve into the officially recognized benefits and uses of Tocophereth-12:
Antioxidant Properties
Tocophereth-12 is officially recognized for its antioxidant properties. In the context of cosmetics, this means that it can help protect your skin from damage caused by harmful free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can damage the skin cells, leading to premature aging and other skin issues. By neutralizing these free radicals, Tocophereth-12 can help maintain the health and vitality of your skin.
Skin Conditioning
Another official function of Tocophereth-12 is skin conditioning. This means that it helps to make the skin feel smoother, softer, and more supple. It achieves this by enhancing the skin’s ability to retain moisture, thereby preventing dryness and flakiness. This can result in a more youthful and radiant appearance.
Cleansing
Tocophereth-12 is also recognized for its cleansing properties. It can help to remove dirt, oil, and other impurities from the skin’s surface, leaving it clean and refreshed. This can be particularly beneficial for those with oily or acne-prone skin, as it can help to prevent the buildup of impurities that can lead to breakouts.
It’s important to note that these benefits are based on the officially recognized and defined functions of Tocophereth-12. There may be other benefits and uses of this ingredient that go beyond the scope of these official functions. However, these additional benefits are not officially recognized and therefore, should be considered with caution.
Safety Profile
Tocophereth-12 is not a banned or regulated ingredient in cosmetics. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetic products. However, like any ingredient, it may not be suitable for all skin types and there is always a potential for allergic reactions. It is always recommended to perform a patch test before using any new product to ensure it is suitable for your skin.
Potential side effects of topical application of Tocophereth-12 may include:
- Redness
- Itching
- Skin irritation
A note for women who are pregnant and/or breastfeeding – there is currently insufficient data to definitively state whether Tocophereth-12 is safe for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding. As a precaution, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional before using any new cosmetic products during this time.
Adverse reactions to Tocophereth-12 are not common, but they can occur. As with any cosmetic ingredient, individual reactions can vary widely. It is always recommended to perform a patch test before using any new product to ensure it is suitable for your skin.
This ingredient analysis has been commissioned by Truth In Skincare (TiS), an independent industry regulator. The analysis was performed by a TiS-appointed industry consultant whose sources include CosIng (Cosmetic Ingredient Database – by the European Commission), the Personal Care Products Council (PCPC), The US Food & Drug Administration (FDA) as well as other various publicly available sources.
