A study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology showed Lycored’s golden tomato-based wellness extract, Lumenato offered beauty benefits that were still noticeable weeks after supplementation protocols ended.

The two-stage study set out to evaluate Lumenato’s bioavailability, and its effectiveness as assessed by consumers. In the first stage, 24 healthy volunteers supplemented with Lumenato for four weeks. The researchers observed an almost fourfold increase in levels of phytoene after the first week; by the fourth week 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 Lumenato’s 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 supplementing with Lumenato, 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. For example, at baseline, 19% of participants said their facial skin looked attractive. Twelve weeks after supplementing with Lumenato, this had increased to 65%, and two weeks after the trial, it had reached 69%.

“There are many ways to measure the effectiveness of products for the skin, but ultimately it’s the experience of consumers that matters,” said Elizabeth Tarshish, head of clinical affairs, claims development at Lycored and one of the study authors. “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.”