Health Guide

Phytofluene

Phytofluene is a colorless carotenoid found naturally in tomatoes and other red/orange vegetables. Unlike its cousin lycopene, phytofluene is absorbed efficiently by the body and acts primarily as a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent. It is often referred to as 'tomato extract' in supplement form. It matters because it helps combat oxidative stress—the cellular damage caused by daily environmental toxins and aging—supporting skin health and reducing inflammation from the inside out.

Evidence BasedDietary Supplement

VERIFIED SOURCE

Bio-Activity Analysis

Skin UV Protection Efficacy

SCIENTIFIC DATA VISUALIZATION

Y-Axis

Reduction in Redness (Erythema)

Intervention →

Health Benefits & Sources

Why You Need It

Skin Protection: Acts as an internal sunscreen by absorbing UV light.
Anti-Inflammatory: Reduces markers of inflammation in the body.
Antioxidant Power: Neutralizes free radicals before they damage cells.

Deep Dive

Phytofluene is unique because it is highly bioavailable, meaning your body can easily use it. Its primary superpower is photoprotection. While sunscreen protects you from the outside, phytofluene protects your skin from the inside by absorbing high-energy light (UV) and preventing inflammation. Additionally, it supports the body's natural detoxification pathways, helping to clear out waste products. It is particularly popular in the beauty-within category for promoting a healthy, even skin tone.

Natural Food Sources

Phytofluene is found in the edible skins of red and orange fruits and vegetables. Cooking these foods with a little healthy fat (like olive oil) actually increases your absorption of phytofluene.

Food	Amount	% DV
Tomatoes (Cooked)	10mg	100%
Grapefruit	2mg	20%
Carrots	1.5mg	15%
Red Bell Peppers	1mg	10%
Watermelon	0.8mg	8%

Supplementation

Since phytofluene is sensitive to light and heat in raw forms, supplements offer a concentrated dose. Look for supplements derived from Lyc-O-Mato (a patented tomato extract) or standard tomato extract. These usually provide 2-5mg per serving, mimicking the absorption found in cooked tomato dishes.

Top Food Sources

Tomato Paste

Best source; 10mg per tbsp

Cooked Tomatoes

Sauces and stews are ideal

Grapefruit

Eat the pith/membrane

Red Bell Peppers

Cooking increases potency

Watermelon

Consume fresh

Frequently Asked Questions

No. They are both carotenoids found in tomatoes, but they have different colors and functions. Lycopene is red and helps the heart, while Phytofluene is colorless and helps protect the skin from UV damage.

Cooking helps break down cell walls, making phytofluene easier to absorb. Eating tomatoes with olive oil or avocado also significantly boosts absorption.

Unlike beta-carotene (which can turn you orange) or lycopene, phytofluene is colorless. It will not change the pigment of your skin.

Most studies suggest consistent daily intake for at least 4 to 8 weeks is needed to see measurable improvements in skin hydration and reduced UV sensitivity.

Safety & Side Effects

Phytofluene is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) because it is a natural food component. There are no known toxic levels.

Who should avoid it?

People with a tomato or citrus allergy should avoid supplements derived from these sources.
As with any fat-soluble supplement, take it with a meal containing fat to avoid stomach upset.

Scientific References

[1]Engelmann, N. J., et al. (2013). 'Bioavailability and Interconversion of Lycopene and Phytofluene in Humans.' *The Journal of Nutrition*.
[2]Stahl, W., & Sies, H. (2005). 'Effects of carotenoids and retinoids on gap junctional communication.' *BioFactors*.
[3]Rao, A. V., & Agarwal, S. (1999). 'Role of lycopene as antioxidant carotenoid in the prevention of chronic diseases.' *Nutrition Research*.