When it comes to skincare, nature offers some of the best remedies, and tomatoes are no exception. While often praised in the kitchen, their benefits for skin health are equally impressive.
Packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and natural acids, tomatoes can brighten skin, fight acne, and reduce signs of aging—whether eaten or applied topically.
Rich in lycopene, they act as a natural shield against UV damage, while vitamin C boosts collagen for firmer, youthful skin. Their gentle acids exfoliate, clearing dead cells and unclogging pores. If you’re looking for a simple yet powerful skincare ingredient, tomatoes might be the answer.
In this blog, we’ll uncover how tomatoes can benefit your skin and explore the many ways they can enhance your complexion, leaving it radiant and glowing.
Nutritional Value
The following nutrients are found in one medium-sized tomato (123 grams):
- Energy: 22.1 kcal
- Protein: 1.08 g
- Total Fat: 0.246 g
- Carbohydrate: 4.78 g
- Dietary Fiber: 1.48 g
- Total Sugars: 3.24 g
- Potassium: 292 mg (6% Daily Value (DV))
- Copper: 0.073 mg (8% DV)
- Manganese: 0.14 mg (6% DV)
- Vitamin C: 16.9 mg (19% DV)
- Thiamin (B1): 0.046 mg (4% DV)
- Niacin (B3): 0.731 mg (5% DV)
- Vitamin B6: 0.098 mg (6% DV)
- Folate: 18.4 mcg (5% DV)
- Vitamin A: 51.7 mcg (6% DV)
- Vitamin E: 0.664 mg (4% DV)
- Vitamin K: 9.72 mcg (8% DV)
Benefits of Tomato for Skin
Here are some potential skin benefits of tomatoes, whether consumed or applied topically.
1. May Help Fight Acne
Acne can be frustrating and impact self-confidence, but tomatoes may offer a natural solution.
Rich in lycopene, the carotenoid that gives them their vibrant red color, tomatoes have been explored for their skin benefits.
For example, a study formulated a gel containing adapalene and lycopene, which demonstrated improved skin absorption, enhanced acne treatment, and reduced side effects. However, as this is a preclinical, lab-based study, further research on animals and humans is needed to confirm these findings.
Tomatoes also contain salicylic acid, a well-known anti-inflammatory and exfoliating agent that helps fight acne by unclogging pores and reducing acne-causing bacteria. However, the concentration in raw tomatoes is much lower than in formulated skincare products, so applying them directly may have limited effectiveness.
2. May Brighten and Even the Skin Tone
Dull, uneven skin tone can be a thing of the past with the brightening power of tomatoes.
Loaded with vitamin C, tomatoes may fade dark spots, hyperpigmentation, and discoloration, while promoting a more even, radiant complexion.
Vitamin C helps reduce pigmentation by blocking the enzyme tyrosinase, which is responsible for melanin production. It does this by interacting with copper ions in the enzyme, preventing it from turning tyrosine into melanin. This process helps lighten dark spots and even out skin tone.
However, there isn’t enough research directly linking tomato consumption or topical use to treating hyperpigmentation.
3. May Protect From Sun Damage
Did you know that tomatoes offer natural sun protection? Lycopene, the superstar antioxidant found in tomatoes, helps protect against the harmful effects of UV rays, potentially lowering the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage.
Tomatoes may even lower the risk of UV-induced skin cancer.
A study on 180 hairless mice tested whether eating tomatoes could protect against skin cancer. For but 35 weeks, some mice ate diets with 10% red or tangerine tomato powder. Results showed that those exposed to UV-B light had fewer tumors, especially males on red tomato diets. Researchers found tomato compounds in the skin, suggesting potential cancer protection, but more research is needed.
Some clinical trials have also observed similar trends, indicating that lycopene may protect skin from harmful UV rays.
To get the most out of tomatoes, consider eating them cooked. Heating enhances lycopene availability, making it easier for your body to absorb.
However, there are virtually no studies on whether topical application offers the same benefits. While tomatoes can support skin health, they should never replace sunscreen. Always use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30, especially when spending time outdoors.
Discover more: Other Foods That Shield Your Skin from Sun Damage
4. May Offer Anti-Aging Benefits
Who needs expensive anti-aging creams when you have tomatoes? Packed with lycopene, vitamin C, and small amounts of vitamins A and E, tomatoes act as a natural anti-aging elixir for your skin.
These nutrients stimulate collagen production, improve skin elasticity, combat oxidative stress, and may reduce fine lines, wrinkles, and dark spots—helping skin look firmer and more youthful.
A study on fifty women tested whether taking Lycomato, a tomato-derived supplement, for three months improves skin health. After 12 weeks, results showed better skin barrier function, reduced wrinkles and pores, and improved tone, smoothness, and firmness, with noticeable benefits.
As with sun protection, there’s little evidence on whether applying tomatoes topically provides the same anti-aging benefits.
5. May Help Moisturize the Skin
Tomatoes are not just refreshing; they can also help keep your skin hydrated. Their high water content (94.5%) may replenish moisture, while natural sugars and amino acids help maintain skin softness.
The presence of lycopene, vitamins A and C supports the skin barrier, reducing moisture loss and keeping your complexion smooth and supple. The previously mentioned study also showed similar results, indicating improvements in skin barrier function, which plays a key role in moisture retention.
Additionally, tomatoes contain potassium, an essential mineral that helps retain hydration and prevent dryness.
Whether eaten or used as a face mask, tomatoes may help hydrate and revitalize your skin. However, research on their effectiveness is limited.
6. May Remove Dead Skin Cells
Tomatoes contain natural acids, particularly citric and malic acids, which have exfoliating properties that help remove dead skin cells. These acids work by loosening the bonds between dead skin cells, allowing them to be sloughed off more easily.
Additionally, tomatoes contain enzymes like protease, which help break down proteins in dead skin cells, facilitating their removal.
While tomatoes contain natural acids and enzymes that may help exfoliate the skin, there is little scientific research directly supporting their effectiveness in removing dead skin cells.
Incorporating Tomatoes into Your Skincare Routine
Now that you’re familiar with tomato benefits for skin, it’s time to put them to use in your skincare routine. Here are some simple yet effective ways to harness the power of tomatoes for radiant, glowing skin:
Tomato Face Mask:
- Mash up a ripe tomato and apply the pulp directly to clean, dry skin.
- Leave the mask on for 15-20 minutes to allow the beneficial nutrients and acids to penetrate the skin.
- Rinse off with lukewarm water and pat your skin dry.
- Use this mask 1-2 times per week to help exfoliate, brighten, and rejuvenate your skin.
Tomato Juice Toner:
- Mix equal parts of fresh tomato juice and water in a small bowl.
- Apply the mixture to your face using a cotton pad, focusing on areas prone to oiliness.
- Allow the toner to air dry on your skin before proceeding with the rest of your skincare routine.
- Use this toner daily to help balance oil levels, tighten pores, and refresh the skin.
Tomato and Yogurt Cleanser:
- Mix equal parts of tomato pulp and plain yogurt to create a creamy cleanser.
- Gently massage the mixture onto damp skin using circular motions, then rinse off with lukewarm water.
- This gentle cleanser helps remove dirt, oil, and impurities while nourishing and hydrating the skin.
Tomato and Honey Scrub:
- Combine mashed tomato pulp with a tablespoon of honey and a teaspoon of sugar to create a DIY exfoliating scrub.
- Apply the scrub to damp skin and gently massage in circular motions for 1-2 minutes.
- Rinse off with lukewarm water to reveal smoother, brighter skin.
Tomato and Cucumber Eye Treatment:
- Blend equal parts of tomato and cucumber to create a soothing eye treatment.
- Apply the mixture to the skin around your eyes and leave it on for 10-15 minutes.
- Rinse off with cool water to reduce puffiness, hydrate the delicate eye area, and brighten dark circles.
Side Effects of Using Tomatoes on Skin
While tomatoes offer skin benefits, they may not suit everyone. Here are some potential side effects:
- Irritation & Redness: The natural acids in tomatoes can cause stinging, redness, or a burning sensation, especially on sensitive skin.
- Allergic Reactions: Some may experience itching, swelling, or rashes. A patch test is recommended before use.
- Dryness & Over-Exfoliation: Frequent use may lead to dryness or flakiness. Limit application to 1-2 times a week.
- Stinging on Open Wounds: Applying tomatoes on broken or irritated skin can cause a stinging or burning sensation due to their acidity. Avoid using them on cuts, acne lesions, or inflamed areas to prevent further irritation.
In Closing
Tomatoes are more than just a kitchen staple—they offer a natural way to nourish and enhance your skin.
Packed with lycopene, vitamin C, and other essential nutrients, they help fight acne, brighten skin, reduce signs of aging, and even provide some UV protection. Whether eaten or applied topically, tomatoes can support a glowing complexion. However, moderation is key to avoid irritation.
Simple, affordable, and effective, tomatoes are a skincare powerhouse, though some benefits require further research for conclusive evidence.
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