Tomato Extract Lycopene Oil is an oil-based extract derived from tomatoes, rich in Lycopene, a powerful Antioxidant. Lycopene oil is particularly effective due to its fat-soluble nature, which enhances absorption in the body. It is commonly used in supplements, skincare products, and functional foods for its protective effects against oxidative stress, heart disease, and skin aging. Tomato Extract Lycopene Oil is a highly bioavailable, antioxidant-rich oil derived from tomatoes. Its active substances, primarily lycopene, along with beta-carotene, phytoene, and fatty acids, provide a wide range of health benefits. These include protection against oxidative damage, skin aging, cardiovascular disease, and cancer. Lycopene oil is versatile in its applications, commonly used in skincare, supplements, functional foods, and anti-cancer formulations, making it a valuable addition to both health and beauty products.
Active Substances Contained
1. Lycopene: The primary active compound, lycopene is a carotenoid with strong antioxidant properties. It gives tomatoes their red color and offers numerous health benefits.
2. Beta-Carotene: Another carotenoid, beta-carotene acts as an antioxidant and a precursor to vitamin A, contributing to skin and eye health.
3. Phytoene and Phytofluene: These are colorless Carotenoids that complement lycopene’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
4. Fatty Acids: The oil base typically contains oleic acid and other healthy fats that enhance the absorption of lycopene and support skin hydration.
5. Vitamin E: Often present as a stabilizing agent, vitamin E adds antioxidant support, helping protect skin and tissues from oxidative stress.
Specific Effects
1. Antioxidant Protection:
Lycopene is a potent antioxidant that neutralizes free radicals, protecting cells from oxidative damage. This helps prevent premature aging, chronic diseases, and certain cancers.
2. Skin Health and Anti-Aging:
Lycopene oil has significant benefits for skin protection. It shields the skin from UV radiation, reduces wrinkles, and improves skin elasticity by promoting collagen production. It also helps in reducing hyperpigmentation and age spots.
3. Heart Health:
Lycopene contributes to improving cardiovascular health by reducing LDL cholesterol, lowering blood pressure, and preventing arterial inflammation, which may lower the risk of heart disease and atherosclerosis.
4. Anti-Inflammatory Properties:
Lycopene oil reduces inflammation by inhibiting pro-inflammatory markers and enzymes. This effect can benefit both the skin and internal organs, reducing the risk of chronic inflammatory conditions.
5. Prostate Health:
Lycopene is widely studied for its role in protecting against prostate cancer and maintaining prostate health. It reduces oxidative stress in prostate cells, which can prevent cancer development.
6. Eye Health:
As a carotenoid, lycopene supports eye health by protecting against oxidative damage, which is linked to age-related macular degeneration and cataracts.
7. Enhanced Bioavailability:
In oil form, lycopene has enhanced bioavailability compared to powdered extracts, making it more efficiently absorbed and utilized by the body, especially when consumed with other fats.
8. Anti-Cancer Potential:
Lycopene has been shown to interfere with the growth of various cancer cells, particularly in the prostate, lungs, and breast. It works by promoting cell apoptosis and reducing DNA damage.
9. Immune Support:
Lycopene’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties also bolster the immune system, protecting it from oxidative stress and helping to maintain overall health.
Applications
1. Skincare and Cosmetics:
Lycopene oil is widely used in anti-aging creams, serums, and sunscreens. It helps protect the skin from UV damage, reduces fine lines and wrinkles, and enhances skin elasticity. Its moisturizing properties also make it suitable for dry or mature skin.
2. Dietary Supplements:
Lycopene oil is often included in softgel supplements due to its high bioavailability. These supplements are marketed for cardiovascular health, prostate support, and antioxidant protection.
3. Functional Foods:
Lycopene oil can be added to functional foods like smoothies, energy bars, and salad dressings to boost their antioxidant content and enhance overall health benefits.
4. Sun Care Products:
Lycopene’s ability to protect against UV-induced damage makes it a popular ingredient in sunscreens and after-sun care products. It helps reduce sunburn and prevent long-term damage like photoaging and hyperpigmentation.
5. Hair Care:
Lycopene oil is occasionally included in hair serums and conditioners for its antioxidant properties, which help protect hair follicles from oxidative damage, leading to healthier hair and scalp.
6. Food Coloring:
Lycopene’s rich red color is used as a natural food coloring agent in processed foods and beverages, contributing to both color and nutritional value.
7. Cancer Prevention Formulas:
Lycopene oil is used in targeted supplements aimed at reducing cancer risk, particularly for prostate and breast cancer, due to its role in reducing oxidative stress and inhibiting tumor growth.
8. Cardiovascular Health Products:
Lycopene oil is a key component in supplements designed to promote heart health. It is often included alongside other heart-healthy ingredients like omega-3 fatty acids and coenzyme Q10.
9. Eye Health Supplements:
Lycopene oil is part of formulations intended to protect against age-related macular degeneration and other vision issues, often combined with Lutein and zeaxanthin.