Research shows the Stem Cells of tomatoes contain powerful antioxidant compounds. Tomato stem cells are important in skincare because they protect your skin against harmful heavy metals (Lead, Nickel, Chromium) that can have a toxic impact on the genetic structure and composition of your skin.
Tomato Extract, also known as Solanum Lycopersicum Callus Culture Extract, contains Lycopene which is an important antioxidant.
The more bioavailable form of tomato, i.e., tomato paste, contains more Lycopene than fresh tomatoes.
In this guide, we’ll talk about Tomato Extract in detail including its skin and health benefits. Read on to know more.
History & Traditional Uses of Tomato in Skincare
Tomato (Solanum Lycopersicum L.) is a major source of Vitamin C, Lycopene, beta-Carotene, and flavonoids.
In the last few years, the plant has harnessed immense popularity for its anti-cancer and anti-oxidative benefits for the skin and health.
Recent studies have shown that the antioxidative power of Lycopene is twice the antioxidative power of beta-Carotene.
Based on Harvard research, it has been found that men who consume at least 10 servings of tomatoes every week can reduce the risk of developing prostate cancer by up to 45%.
A study conducted on a group of healthy people consuming tomato paste with olive oil for 10 weeks revealed that Lycopene present in tomatoes can help in shielding the skin against UV damage.
In fact, in the earlier days, women belonging to different countries and cultures used tomato as a natural remedy for treating acne marks, wrinkles, and pigmentation.
Tomato Skincare Facts
- Lycopene is found in Tomato Extract and is a phytonutrient.
- Lycopene is a pigment compound that’s responsible for the red color of tomatoes.
- Lycopene is beneficial for the heart and bones.
- Lycopene can also prevent different types of cancer such as prostate and colon cancer.
- Lycopene extract or tomato extract is also used in cereal products, non-alcoholic beverages, food coloration of dairy products, etc.
- Lycopene content in tomatoes varies between 70 mg/kg to 130 mg/kg.
- Tomato extract is typically the ethyl acetate extract of ripe tomatoes with lycopene content varying between 150 mg/kg to 250 mg/kg.
- In Tomato extract, the Lycopene content ranges from 5%-15% depending on the ripeness of the tomato and the quantity of tomato seed oil added to the extract.
Health & Beauty Benefits of Tomato Extract
As already mentioned above, Tomato Extract contains Lycopene which is an excellent antioxidant.
Lycopene has been associated with a wide range of health benefits ranging from bone health to heart health.
Let’s look at some health benefits of Lycopene present in Tomato Extract.
Lycopene protects against different types of cancers
The strong antioxidant effect of Lycopene can hamper the growth of certain types of cancers.
Test tube research shows that Lycopene can lower the growth of prostate and breast cancer by seizing tumor growth.
Studies on animals have also shown that Lycopene prevents the growth of kidney cancers.
Based on human studies, it has been found that Lycopene lowers the risk of lung cancer by 32% to 50%.
Lycopene promotes heart health
When it comes to the human heart, Lycopene reduces the risk of developing serious heart diseases and lowers LDL cholesterol (bad cholesterol) by increasing HDL cholesterol (good cholesterol).
Research spread over 10 years revealed that individuals with a metabolic disorder with adequate Lycopene levels are at almost 39% lesser risk of dying prematurely.
In another study spread over the same duration, it was found that individuals who consumed a diet rich in Lycopene were linked to a 17% to 26% lower risk of heart ailments.
Other Lycopene health benefits
Some other health benefits of Lycopene are:
- Lycopene may help in improving your eyesight – preventing cataracts, macular degeneration, etc.
- Lycopene’s antioxidants may help in preventing epileptic seizures and memory loss associated with Alzheimer’s.
- Lycopene’s antioxidant properties prevent the death of bone cells, reinforce the structure of the bones, and promote bone health.
Tomato Extract shields the skin against UV-induced erythema. Also, high levels of Lycopene neutralize free radicals that damage the skin and lead to photoaging.
Tomato Extract also comes with anti-inflammatory properties that make it a wonderful remedy for treating loose pores and acne breakouts.
Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are enzymes that can damage the extracellular skin matrix which can result in the breakdown of skin collagen and ultimately, skin aging.
Tomato Extract suppresses the activity of MMPs and helps in maintaining collagen levels.
This can also help in the prevention of wrinkles and fine lines.
This is just a summary of the skin benefits of Tomato extract. We’ll cover each point in detail in the next section.
Skin Benefits of Tomato Extract
Tomato Extract Protects The Skin Against UV Damage
As you already know, there are two types of UV rays – UVA and UVB.
However, the UVA rays cause more damage to the skin by penetrating deeper into the dermis.
On the other hand, UVB rays are more topical and only damage the surface of the skin resulting in sunburns.
Research has shown that sunscreens containing Tomato Extract can reduce UV ray damage.
Tomato Extract prevents skin aging
Lycopene in Tomato Extract is converted into Retinol or Vitamin A when consumed as a part of your diet.
Retinol is great for reducing signs of aging and stimulating melatonin and collagen production.
Both collagen and melatonin promote skin health.
Tomato Extract reduces skin redness
Lycopene in Tomato Extract reduces skin erythema or redness of the skin by leaps and bounds.
It also calms irritated skin by stimulating the growth of new skin cells.
Research shows that topical application of Tomato Extract plays a significant role in stabilizing the DNA structure inside the nucleus of the skin and maintaining the skin repair pathway.
Other skin benefits of Tomato Extract
- Tomato Extract can be used as an astringent and antiseptic remedy for the skin.
- Tomato Extract can help you achieve clean and glowing skin.
- Tomato Extract shrinks open pores and helps in skin tightening.
- Tomato Extract helps in controlling acne breakouts by normalizing sebum production.
Topical Application
So, by now you know that Tomato Extract is great for your skin. Here’s we listed different types of skincare products that are enriched with Tomato Extract to help you achieve smooth, blemish-free, and radiant skin.
All the products listed here involve topical application.
Tomato Hydration mask
Tomato Extract gel masks, sheet masks, and hydration masks are trending big time.
Lycopene content in the masks penetrates deep inside the skin and improves skin hydration.
The Tomato Extract masks also help in reducing visible signs of aging.
Day skin cream
Tomato Extract day skin creams guard your skin against environmental pollutants and sun damage.
Most of the day skin creams containing Tomato Extract are suitable for all skin types.
Tomato Skincare Booster
Tomato Extract skin boosters contain several other essential oils that are created to provide skin nourishment and protection.
Soap
Soaps or bathing bars containing Tomato Extract are specially meant for oily, acne-prone, and sensitive skin.
These soaps contain Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin K, and lycopene to protect the skin from harmful UV rays and absorb excess sebum oil.
Oil control gel
Tomato Extract oil control gels are useful for treating oily skin and blemishes. Vitamin C and Lycopene packed Tomato Extract reduces skin inflammation, hydrates the skin, and leaves the skin fresh and revitalized.