Tomatoes are grown and eaten throughout the world and whether you're snacking on cherry tomatoes, heirloom tomatoes, or beefsteak tomatoes, tomato are literally delicious. It turns out that beyond being delicious; having tomato added to your diet may have some skincare benefits, too. Tomatoes are healthy, after all! The vibrant red hue of tomatoes comes from a powerful antioxidant known as lycopene. They contain antioxidants and vitamin C, which may help strengthen your immune system. They’re also a dietary source of:
- potassium
- vitamin A
- vitamin B
- magnesium
Tomatoes contain lycopene, a carotenoid found in different types of fruits. This naturally occurring compound gives tomatoes their red color, one of the most powerful natural antioxidants. In some studies lycopene, especially in cooked tomatoes, has been linked to the prevention of prostate cancer and may help with decreased risk of breast cancer, head and neck cancers.
May soothe skin inflammation
Several compounds in tomatoes have an effect. These compounds include:
- lycopene
- beta carotene
- lutein
- vitamin E
- vitamin C
When applied to the skin, these compounds may help ease pain associated with skin irritations or sunburn.
Lycopene has also been shown to improve the skin’s ability to protect against harmful UV rays and so for this reason the tomato is a great weapon against ageing. But also don’t forget to use sun protection (for UVA and UVB) and anti-ageing oils.
Tomatoes are an excellent source of vitamin C. Besides boosting your immune system, vitamin C can help stimulate collagen production. Applied topically, vitamin C may help improve skin elasticity. That can make your skin firmer.
As well as eating tomatoes for their benefits, if you’ve got some that are a bit squishy and not at their best for salads or cooking, then put them in the blender with some lemon juice, a pinch of salt, pepper and a sprig of parsley for a lovely refreshing juice.
Alternatively, once a week at bedtime, cut a tomato in half and rub it over your face and neck. The juice is wonderful and it dries quickly, so you can go to sleep with it on!
It’s a great anti-ageing treatment and really gives a boost to the skin. Just rinse off in the morning with warm water and notice the freshness and renewed vitality of your skin!
Tomatoes can enhance many of your favorite dishes, but they don’t only benefit your taste buds. They may also improve your skin’s health, resulting in fewer wrinkles and less inflammation.
