Chemically, lycopene is a naturally occurring carotenoid with a linear structure, composed exclusively of carbon and hydrogen atoms, with the chemical formula C40H56.

It has an extended system of conjugated double bonds, which imparts its characteristic red colour and high antioxidant activity.

Lycopene is structurally classified as an acyclic carotenoid, lacking terminal cyclic groups like β-ionone rings, which distinguishes it from provitamin A carotenoids. Its linear structure consists of 11 conjugated double bonds and 2 non-conjugated double bonds, which contribute to its stability and biological functions. 

From a health and wellness perspective, lycopene is a phytonutrient that has proven functionality as a potent antioxidant, capable of scavenging free radicals and protecting cells from oxidative stress.

Its antioxidant properties have been linked to various health benefits, including the potential to reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, certain cancers (e.g., prostate) and neurodegenerative conditions.

Lycopene's bioactive effects are also associated with its role in modulating inflammatory pathways, enhancing skin health by protecting against UV-induced damage, and supporting overall cellular health.

Additionally, lycopene has been shown to promote gut health by modulating the gut microbiota, reducing intestinal inflammation, and supporting gut barrier integrity, further contributing to overall wellness.

To learn more the structure and function of lycopene, we recommend the following resources:

• Nutraceutical delivery systems to improve the bioaccessibility and bioavailability of lycopene: A review by Haonan Wu, Yumeng Wu, Zhe Cui & Liandong Hu
• The effect of tomato and lycopene on clinical characteristics and molecular markers of UV-induced skin deterioration: A systematic review and meta-analysis of intervention trials by Xiaofeng Zhang, Qilun Zhou, Yue Qi, et al
• A mechanistic updated overview on lycopene as potential anticancer agent by Gulay Ozkana, Deniz Günal-Köroğlua, Ayse Karadagb, et al

A bioactive is a substance that interacts with biological systems, such as cells, tissues, or organisms, to produce a measurable physiological, biochemical, or molecular effect.

RVO exhibits bioactivity due to its rich composition of major compounds, including carotenoids, tocopherols, phenolics, phytosterols, and essential fatty acids. Carotenoids act as powerful antioxidants, scavenging reactive oxygen species (ROS) to protect cells from oxidative stress, reduce inflammation, and provide UV protection, while also supporting skin health.

Tocopherols, as different forms of vitamin E, further enhance antioxidant capacity by stabilising cell membranes and promoting repair processes. Phenolics contribute strong antioxidant effects, modulate inflammatory pathways, and prevent lipid peroxidation, adding to the overall cellular protection offered by RVO.

Similarly, phytosterols help restore the skin barrier, reduce water loss, and exhibit anti-inflammatory properties, while essential fatty acids support inflammation regulation, hydration, and membrane integrity.

These bioactive compounds work synergistically, making RVO a functional ingredient for skin care and health applications, with benefits ranging from oxidative stress protection to enhanced cellular and tissue health. Collectively, this composition underpins RVO’s classification as a bioactive oil.

To learn more about bioactivity of different compound classes in tomato oil products, we recommended the following resources:

• Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) seed: A review on bioactives and biomedical activities by Manoj Kumara, Maharishi Tomarb, Deep Jyoti Bhuyan et al
• Evaluation of the Bioactive Compounds Found in Tomato Seed Oil and Tomato Peels Influenced by Industrial Heat Treatments by Katalin Szabo, Francisc Vasile Dulf, Bernadette-Emőke Teleky et al

Lycopene is considered a stronger antioxidant than β-carotene due to several critical factors as highlighted by the comparative antioxidant analysis of α-Carotene, β-Carotene, Lycopene, and Zeaxanthin. 

Greater Number of Conjugated Double Bonds: Lycopene possesses 11 conjugated double bonds compared to β-carotene's 9.

This extensive conjugation allows for superior delocalisation of electrons, enhancing its ability to quench singlet oxygen and neutralise reactive oxygen species (ROS). 

Higher Trolox Equivalent Antioxidant Capacity (TEAC): According to the data, lycopene and its geometrical isomers exhibit significantly higher TEAC values than β-carotene, with some (Z)-isomers of lycopene showing nearly double the antioxidant capacity of (all-E)-β-carotene. This indicates lycopene's greater efficiency in scavenging free radicals under similar conditions.

Superior Singlet Oxygen Quenching: Lycopene has been identified as the most effective biological carotenoid for quenching singlet oxygen. This aspect is attributed to its linear structure, which facilitates energy dissipation and stabilisation of reactive species.

Isomerisation Effects: (Z)-isomers of lycopene exhibit even higher antioxidant potential than its (all-E)-form, suggesting that lycopene's antioxidant activity is further enhanced under conditions that promote isomerisation (e.g., light and heat). This characteristic is less pronounced in β-carotene.

Acyclic Structure: Lycopene's lack of cyclic β-ionone rings, which are present in β-carotene, results in a more streamlined and efficient antioxidant activity. The linear structure of lycopene allows better incorporation into lipid membranes, where it can protect against oxidative damage.

In general terms, lycopene is a stronger antioxidant than β-carotene because its unique structure allows it to neutralise harmful molecules like reactive oxygen species (ROS) more effectively.

Its streamlined shape and ability to form even more powerful isomers under light or heat make it exceptionally good at protecting cells from oxidative damage

The full reports on its comparative antioxidant activity are available here:

• Trolox Equivalent Antioxidant Capacity of Different Geometrical Isomers of α-Carotene, β-Carotene, Lycopene, and Zeaxanthin by Volker Böhm, Ni Luh Puspitasari-Nienaber, Mario G. Ferruzzi, and Steven J. Schwartz
• Comparative Study on Antioxidant Activity of Lycopene (Z)-Isomers in Different Assays by Lars Müller, Pascale Goupy, Kati Fröhlich, et al

Responsible Beauty is a concept within the cosmetics industry that intertwines sustainability, ethical considerations, and the use of eco-friendly practices throughout the entire product lifecycle.

It involves addressing the environmental, social, and economic impacts of cosmetic products, from their design and development to their post-use phase.

Responsible beauty prioritises the use of sustainable ingredients, such as those derived from upcycling or green chemistry, while ensuring ethical sourcing practices like fair trade.

Additionally, it incorporates the development of innovative manufacturing techniques to reduce energy and water consumption, the creation of recyclable or biodegradable packaging, and the promotion of circular economy principles to minimise waste.

Responsible beauty extends beyond environmental concerns to include social accountability, such as fair labour practices and community empowerment initiatives.

The goal is to create products that not only meet consumer demands for effectiveness and safety but also contribute positively to global sustainability goals.

This holistic approach underscores a commitment to fostering a beauty industry that protects and nurtures the planet and its people, aligning with the evolving priorities of environmentally and socially conscious consumers​.

RVO is created using an upcycling process, transforming tomato waste into a high-value ingredient, exemplifying the essence of responsible beauty by reducing waste, conserving resources, and showcasing how innovation can drive sustainability in the cosmetics industry.

To learn about current trends in sustainable cosmetics we recommend the following research article published in 2023:

• A sustainable life cycle for cosmetics: From design and development to post-use phase by Ana M. Martins and Joana M. Marto

The red colour of RVO originates from its carotenoids, particularly lycopene, which absorb light in the blue-green region of the visible spectrum due to their conjugated double bonds, reflecting red wavelengths and giving RVO its distinctive hue. 

Here’s why it happens:

• Lycopene is abundant in tomato: Lycopene is a pigment found in large amounts in tomato skins and seeds. It absorbs certain types of light, which makes it appear red to our eyes.
• Concentrated during oil extraction: When the oil is extracted from tomato seeds and skins, these pigments get mixed into the oil, making its colour rich and vibrant.
• Carotenoids such as lycopene mix well with oil: Carotenoids like lycopene easily dissolve in oil, they give it a strong red colour during the extraction process.
• Other pigments add to the shade: Along with lycopene, small amounts of other pigments, like β-carotene, contribute to the oil’s colour, making it even more striking.

In general terms, the red colour comes from natural pigments in the tomato skin and seeds that get concentrated in the oil during extraction, giving it a beautiful, vibrant hue.

Between 5 - 15,000 tonnes annually of food waste is being upcycled to make Red Velvet Oil™.

Red Velvet Oil™ is a highly versatile active oil, due to its unique phyto-nutrient composition, delivering more than fatty acids found in most vegetable oils, it offers significant value to a wide range of topical and ingestible applications. 

It is ideal for upcycled, ethical, and eco-conscious skincare, haircare and nutraceutical brands.

Red Velvet Oil™ has something to offer all skin types and demographics – aging skin, acne-prone skin, sun-damaged, inflamed skin, and can be useful in post-procedure care (laser, chemical peels, microdermabrasion).

Papers show Lycopene can help regulate sebum production and inflammation for acne prone skin. For more information, request Dr Nastasi’s research brochure.

Access NATIVE EXTRACTS 8 Inspiration Formulation Guides for:

• Daily Vege Shot Cleanser
• Royal Citrus Scrub
• Revolution Facial Oil
• Day Defence Moisturiser
• Calm Nights Cream
• Revolution 50+SPF Sunscreen
• Shower/Bath Body Oil
• Revolution Nourish Lip Complex
• Enquire about ingestible appications

If you need help with new product development (NPD) and building brand extensions, arrange a NPD Discovery Call and NPD brief with our NPD strategist.

Yes, Red Velvet Oil™ is a versatile food-grade oil, offering phyto-nutrients that have applications and value.

Red Velvet Oil™ Nutraceuticals application: 

• strong antioxidant capacity making t a value input into functional foods,
• linked to reducing risk of cancers (prostrate, stomach and lung), cardiovascular diseases, an neurodegenerative disorders.

Red Velvet Oil™ Food application:

• Natural colourant – enhanced visual appeal
• Functional ingredient – improves nutritional value

Red Velvet Oil™ is ideal for brands wanting to bridge ingestible and topical Upcycled Beauty solutions.

Yes, lycopene can be considered for anti-aging to offer:

• Wrinkle reduction: Its antioxidant action combats oxidative stress, one of the contributors to skin aging. Lycopene can help redcue the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines by improving skin texture and promoting collagen synthesis. 
• Skin firmness and elasticity: By aiding in collagen production, lycopene improves skin firmness and elasticity, making the skin appear more youthful and reducing sagging. 
• Combating free radicals: supporting protection from free radical damage, which can lead to premature aging and dull skin.
• Enhancing skin repair: Lycopene promotes the repair of skin cells damaged by environmental stressors like UV light and pollution. It accelerates cellular regeneration, helping to heal damaged skin more quickly.

Lycopene can be used to address acne-prone skin, due to it's properties that offer: 

• Sebum regulation: Lycopene can help regulate sebum production, reducing the oiliness of the skin and contributing to acne prevention, lycopene can minimize the redness and size of acne breakouts.
• Anti-inflammatory action: By reducing inflammation, lycopene can minimize the redness and size of acne breakouts.

Lyopene can deliver the following benefits to tackle inflammation:

• Reducing inflammation: Its anti-inflammatory properties make lycopene beneficial in treating skin conditions like dermatitis, eczema, and psoriasis, where inflammation is a key concern. 
• Anti-inflammatory action: By reducing inflammation, lycopene can minimise the redness and size of acne breakouts.
• Post-procedure care - healing enhancement: Following dermatological procedures like laser treatments, chemical peels, or microdermabrasion, lycopene can be used to enhance healing and reduce inflammation. 

Looking for ingredients targeting inflammaging?

Request NATIVE EXTRACTS' pre-clinical research on the botanical Cellular Extracts and the down regulation of inflammation via the nitric oxide pathway, and the Infitrio™ blend.

12mg/100g is reported available in Red Velvet Oil™, aligned with 4 interesting phytosterols and the fatty acid profile.

Yes, Rosehip oil delivers fatty acids, where Red Velvet Oil™ offers in addition to fatty acids, a unique composition including lycopene (a carotenoid, more powerful antioxidant than beta-carotene and 4 phytosterols.

Red Velvet Oil™ is a stand-out 'active' oil – offering more than your usual carrier/vegetable oil!

If sustainable and responsible ingredients and upcycling waste are important to you, than Red Velvet Oil™ is new performance oil-soluble ingredient you need.

Red Velvet Oil™ is ideal for brands on the path of zero waste and upcycled beauty, who want to build new oil-soluble formulation solutions and stories.

Red Velvet Oil™ delivers the benefits of Lycopene, a powerful antioxidant and caretinoid.

Contact NATIVE EXTRACTS to discuss using Red Velvet Oil™ in your new product development.