Every now and then, a product crosses your path that isn’t loud or flashy, but quietly, clinically gets on with the job beautifully. For me, Institut Esthederm Intensive Vitamin E Serum is precisely that.
What is it?
Formulated for sensitive, reactive or inflamed skin, this light, calming serum is designed to immediately take down redness, irritation, and that hot, tight discomfort so many of us experience, especially in colder months or when we’ve been a bit too enthusiastic with acids or retinoids.
What Do I Think?
Unlike many supposedly soothing products, this one isn’t just about surface level comfort. It’s built around high concentrations of Vitamin E, a well-documented antioxidant that works as a powerful anti-inflammatory while also shielding skin from free radical damage (one of the leading causes of premature ageing). For those with skins too touchy for Vitamin C, whether due to sensitivity or conditions like rosacea, Vitamin E offers a brilliant, gentler alternative with many of the same protective benefits.
The texture is spot on. It’s a light, slightly milky serum that absorbs quickly without vanishing into nothingness. It leaves my dry, temperamental skin feeling cushioned and genuinely comforted, without any heaviness or grease. Over time, I’ve noticed my skin tone looking calmer and more even, with fewer flare-ups and less of that dull, blotchy redness that stressed skin so often has.
I use it most in the mornings, instead of my usual antioxidant serum or when my face is playing up. It’s even great as a preventative step when the central heating’s on full blast and the wind’s biting. It layers beautifully under moisturiser and SPF, and doesn’t pill.
Would I recommend?
It may not be the serum that gets all the hype on Instagram, but if your skin is dry, red, reactive, or just in need of a little peace and quiet, this is a standout. In short, I’ve absolutely loved my time with it and will seriously consider purchasing it again.
Brands Product Description
UV rays, pollution and stress can cause skin redness, hyper-reactivity and discomfort. INTENSIVE VITAMINE E² Serum protects the skin from harsh external factors that produce free radicals; it also soothes sensitive skin.
Key Ingredients
- Glycerin – Moisturising.
- Tocopheryl Acetate – A Vitamin E derivative which is an antioxidant that neutralises free radicals and their harmful effects on the skin.
- Disodium Lauriminodipropionate Tocopheryl Phosphates – A Vitamin E derivative which is an antioxidant that neutralises free radicals and their harmful effects on the skin.
- Carnosine – A Peptide which optimises cellular functioning and preserves the balance of healthy skin.
How I Use It
I use the Institut Esthederm Intensive Vitamin E Serum in my morning routine in place of Vitamin C. You could use with a Vitamin C, and at night, if you wanted to. I use it after cleansing and before moisturiser.
Would I Repurchase/Buy?
Yes! I’ve loved using it.
How Much?
£79.00 for 30ml
