Exploring the Dual Benefits of 'TOMESORAL': Photo-Protective and Skin Lightening Potential of Carotenoids and Flavonoids in a Preliminary Controlled Trial

Abstract

The concept of photoprotection by dietary means is gaining attraction. Plant constituents such as carotenoids and flavonoids are involved in protection against excess light in plants and also contribute to the prevention of UV damage in human skin. The water soluble flavonoids are the compounds that potentially elevate the levels of glutathione. In this study, TOMESORAL+ white tomato powder (rich in phytoene, phytofluene, lutein and zeazanthine) was evaluated for its potential to protect the skin from UV and increased glutathione levels.  Study comprised of evaluation of skin lightening effect in post treated groups of skin type III or IV. Evaluation of reduction of skin stress and improvement of skin regeneration by the estimation of ELISA based markers. Similarly, study of reduction of inflammatory markers in post treated skin groups was also done. TOMESORAL treatment group expresses low levels lipid peroxidation and inflammation making TOMESORAL a potential option for treatment of inflammation due to photo-damage and improve the skin health. Moreover, the unique natural cocktail of carotenoids and flavonoids in TOMESORAL augments the increase of glutathione and glutathione reductase levels in photo-damaged skin that not only repair the damaged skin but also contribute to enhance the skin resistance against the damaging effects of UV radiations.