Tomato Paste for Your Face

A simple and effective way to improve the appearance and quality of your skin may be in your backyard garden. The unlikely food—a tomato.

A study found that taking a daily 16 mg dose of lycopene (equivalent to about a pound of fresh tomatoes or four to five 6-ounce cans of tomato juice) for 12 weeks decreased reddening after UV exposure. Researchers also found that lycopene reduced cellular breakdown that leads to premature aging. In addition to skin, lycopene is known to benefit the heart, blood pressure, prostate problems, and lessen the effects of osteoporosis.

At the moment, researchers believe that ordinary tomatoes and tomato-based foods, even highly processed foods, are sufficient in supplying lycopene. Don’t be surprised if you see a boost in lycopene supplements!