While celebrated for its cancer-preventing and cardiovascular benefits, this antioxidant powerhouse is emerging as a game-changer in the world of skincare.
Globally acclaimed anti-ageing guru Dr William Li sheds light on lycopene’s versatile advantages. Dr Li says it “slows down cellular ageing” to increase longevity.
Why all this buzz about lycopene? The answer lies in its skincare benefits, making it a sought-after ingredient in various skincare formulations, including serums, creams, and oils.
Lycopene stands out for its capacity to protect the skin from UV radiation, alleviate inflammation, boost collagen production, and serve as a potent antioxidant. These attributes position it as a significant factor in achieving youthful skin.
Yet, despite its remarkable properties, lycopene is often found in skincare products with eye-watering price tags.
Lycopene-infused moisturizers can soar to £60 or more, prompting a quest for a more economical route to combat ageing.
The good news? Lycopene exists naturally in tomatoes. However, tossing raw tomatoes into a salad won’t unleash their full anti-ageing potential, as Dr Li cautions “you’d likely only absorb around 20 percent” of the lycopene.
To supercharge this skincare secret, Dr Li suggests a culinary twist: “Heat tomatoes in a pan with olive oil.” The addition of olive oil boosts absorption efficiency from 20 to 80 percent, since it’s great at dissolving into fats.
Fancy a plate of fried tomatoes to defy the signs of ageing? Alternatively, try a tomato soup that takes only two steps and just six ingredients.
Or if you want double the health benefits, consider a tomato and turmeric soup. Turmeric, known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, complements the skin-nourishing benefits of tomatoes, offering a flavorful and healthful option during the winter months.
Lycopene’s skincare benefits aren’t confined to tomatoes alone – good news for tomato-haters. Lycopene is also present in watermelon, pink grapefruit, guava, papaya, and berries, providing a palette of delicious options to incorporate into your diet.
So, whether you opt for a sizzling pan of tomatoes with olive oil or indulge in a watermelon feast, lycopene might just be the affordable key to unlock your skin’s fountain of youth. And don’t underestimate the power of a bowl of hot tomato soup.
