The Lycopene, in INCI Hydrolyzed Tomato Skin, is derived from tomato skin subjected to hydrolysis. It belongs to the carotenoid family, the plant pigments that give fruit and vegetables their color and that act as antioxidants in cosmetics.
The key molecule is lycopene, which is concentrated mainly in the tomato skin. The problem is that it remains bound to the cell wall structures there: hydrolysis breaks those bonds and makes it available. Lycopene is one of the most effective carotenoids for neutralizing singlet oxygen, the reactive form of oxygen generated when skin is exposed to light.
It works on skin brightness and evenness, on dull skin and on skin that accumulates signs of exposure. It is used in serum, morning and evening, and its effects are especially noticeable on the overall complexion after six to eight weeks.
It performs best in a morning routine alongside sunscreen: the filter reduces the rays reaching the skin, while the carotenoid acts on the radicals that form anyway. Two defenses acting at different stages of the same process, together covering the whole day.
On our blog, you can find an in-depth look at lycopene and its benefits for the skin.
