Simple Ingredient No. 5 | Tomatoes for Skincare

The use of tomato for skin care is ideal because of its cooling and astringent properties. It is rich in vitamin C making it helpful for acne and brightening dull skin and contains vitamin A needed for building healthy skin. Its naturally acidic properties help it balance the skin and get rid of excessive oil. The antioxidants in tomatoes make them free radical fighters. It also contains fiber, vitamin C, E, K, B1, B6, B3, B2, iron, manganese, potassium as well as carotenes.

The major benefit of using the tomato is because of  it abundance of lycopene. Lycopene is high in antioxidants and is fat soluble, with a small molecule structure that is easily absorbed by the skin. There is a drawback however; lycopene is not dietary soluble (the molecule structure is tightly bound) unless cooked, so tomato pastes and sauces are a much better dietary source of lycopene.

Most of the nutrients in any fruit or vegetable are found in the skin, and that's where you'll find a higher concentration of lycopene in a tomato.

Here is a Simple & Easy Way to Use the Tomato

1. It require 10 to 12 tomatoes.
2. Purchase organic tomatoes or grow your own; organic tomatoes are found to have a higher concentration of lycopene.
   Bring a pot of water to a boil. 
3. Dip the tomatoes into the water for a minute or so. 
4. Peel the tomatoes and separate the skin from the flesh.
5. Wash your face of all dirt and grime. 
6. Tilt your head back and have a friend or partner apply the tomato skins, flesh side down. 
7. Wait 30 to 40 minutes, remove the skins and wash your face again. 

The results are immediately noticeable. You may also find your skin is slightly tanned looking, which is a result of the caretanoid pigment in the tomatoes, being absorbed into your skin. Remember, however, that tomato juice can sting your eyes, so keep your eyes covered with a cloth or closed for the duration.

And there you have it, Tomatoes can clear up your complexion, absorb excess oils and add moisture without clogging pores...what more can a girl or guy ask for?

Enjoy!

As always, be well
Dannette