Chapter 2 Answers to self check questions

1 Vitamin E (α-tocopherol) acts as an antioxidant. It operates as a free radical scavenger, halting the propagation of damaging free radical chain reactions. These free radical reactions can damage collagen, potentially leading to the appearance of wrinkles. However, eating the appropriate foods in a normal diet will usually provide sufficient vitamin E without the need for supplementation.

2 No adverse effects from consuming vitamin E in a healthy diet have been identified. Although there are potential risks associated with high dose vitamin E supplements, such levels are unlikely to be achieved by the use of anti-ageing creams.