Carotenoid-rich tomato complex supports UV skin protection, says new study

A recent study published in Skin Pharmacology and Physiology¹, found that supplementation with a nutricosmetic ingredient called Lycoderm supported skin’s resilience to UV rays. A carotenoid-rich tomato nutrient complex with rosemary extract, Lycoderm is manufactured by Lycored (Orange, NJ). In the randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled multicenter study, 149 healthy volunteers randomly assigned to take either Lycoderm or placebo for 12 weeks, followed by a five-week washout phase.

Results showed that supplementation with the tomato nutrient complex significantly protected subjects against UVB-induced erythema formation compared to placebo. It also protected against UVB-induced upregulation of interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor-alpha when compared to placebo.

“All people should strive for a healthier relationship with the sun and be mindful of their exposure to UV,” Karin Hermoni, PhD, head of science and nutrition for Lycored, in a press release. “Complementing traditional topical skin care and sun care with proper nourishment of body and skin can help balance our skin’s response to environmental challenges, and build a better foundation for beautiful skin and long-term skin wellness.”

References:

1. Groten K et al. “Tomato phytonutrients balance UV response: results from a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study.” Skin Pharmacology and Physiology, vol. 32, no. 2 (2019)