Unlocking the potential of Vitamin E: nanocolloidal-based topical delivery systems

Vitamin E, a vital antioxidant, plays a key role in maintaining skin health by protecting cells from oxidative stress, reducing inflammation, and supporting moisture retention. This review highlights recent progress in colloidal delivery systems designed for the topical administration of Vitamin E. It explores advanced carriers including liposomes, solid lipid nanoparticles, nanoemulsions, and microemulsions that improve Vitamin E's stability, skin penetration, and bioavailability. These innovative systems help protect Vitamin E from environmental degradation and enable controlled, sustained release to prolong its therapeutic benefits. The review summarises current research findings, emerging trends, and practical applications in dermatology and skincare. It also outlines major challenges, such as poor stability and limited cutaneous absorption, and discusses how colloidal technologies can overcome these limitations. By consolidating existing evidence and identifying key knowledge gaps, this review encourages further investigation into optimised topical formulations that maximise the clinical and cosmetic potential of Vitamin E.