Ingredient supplier Lycored has highlighted a study which reportedly demonstrated its golden tomato-based wellness extract delivers beauty results that remain noticeable weeks later. 

The two-stage study, published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, set out to evaluate the ingredient’s bioavailability, and its effectiveness as assessed by consumers. 

In the first stage, 24 healthy volunteers supplemented with the ingredient for four weeks. The researchers observed an almost fourfold increase in levels of phytoene after the first week, and by the fourth it had reached almost five times the baseline level. There were also significant increases in levels of other carotenoids, such as phytofluene and zeta-carotene, indicating high bioavailability. 

In the second stage, 63 women aged between 35 and 55 took Lumenato for 12 weeks. They completed questionnaires that assessed different skin parameters at weeks four, eight and 12, and again two weeks after the trial had finished. 

After 12 weeks of supplementation, participants reported significant improvements in skin hydration, firmness, brightness, tone and overall condition. They also reported reductions in dark spots and circles, fine lines and wrinkles. 

Assessment of these parameters continued to improve after treatment had ended. At baseline,19% of participants said their facial skin looked attractive. Twelve weeks after supplementation, this had increased to 65%, and two weeks after the trial, it had reached 69%.

Elizabeth Tarshish, Head of Clinical Affairs, Claims Development at Lycored, said: “There are many ways to measure the effectiveness of products for the skin, but ultimately it’s the experience of consumers that matters. We were delighted that the people taking part in this trial reported such clear results from Lumenato, and that they continued to notice them even after supplementation had ended. It’s exciting to see consumers noticing that kind of lasting effect, which demonstrates the continuous skin nourishment that carotenoids can provide.”