The efficacy of a novel tomato extracts formulation on skin aging and pigmentation: A randomized, double-blind, parallel-controlled trial

Background Oxidative stress is a significant factor in skin aging and pigmentation, which can be precipitated by various circumstances. Antioxidants and tyrosinase inhibitors, such as carotenoids, yeast extract (glutathione), sodium hyaluronate, astaxanthin, and niacin, can individually protect the skin against aging through distinct mechanisms. These mechanisms potentially enhance the skin barrier and improve signs of aging and pigmentation. However, the synergistic effects of these compounds, as found in a golden tomato extract formulation, have been scarcely explored. Objective To evaluate the effects of an orally administered formulation on the skin aging and pigmentation. Material and Methods In this study, a randomized, double-blind, parallel-controlled trial was conducted, utilizing the WONDERLAB® Tomato Niacinamide beverage. Out of all participants, 62 volunteers completed the experiment and were included in the statistical analysis. Results The results indicated that after eight weeks of consuming the research product, there were no significant changes in the skin indicators within the placebo group. In contrast, the treatment group receiving the sample formulation exhibited a 35.63% increase in stratum corneum hydration and a 29.39% reduction in transepidermal water loss (TEWL), suggesting enhanced skin hydration. Visual assessments revealed improvements in skin color and gloss index by 15.03% and 11.41%, respectively, in the treatment group. Furthermore, the skin gloss and individual typology angle (ITA) value increased by 18.59% and 6.36%, respectively, leading to a lighter skin tone. Significant enhancements were also observed in skin pigmentation, color uniformity, and redness. After eight weeks of intervention with the sample, blood levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) increased, while malondialdehyde (MDA) levels decreased. Conclusion These findings confirm that continuous intake of the tomato extract formulation over eight weeks effectively improved the volunteers' skin whitening and hydration, and visibly brightened skin tone through an antioxidant mechanism.