LYCOPENE’S ANTIOXIDANT ACTIVITY IN COSMETICS MEADOW

Abstract

Upon exposure to UV light or other oxidative stresses, photo oxidative reactions are initiated which are damaging to biomolecules and affects the integrity of cells and tissues. Photo oxidative damage plays a role in pathological processes and is involved in the development of disorders affecting skin. Carotenoids like β-carotene and lycopene act as antioxidant in photo oxidation by quenching singlet molecular oxygen and peroxy radical generated during peroxidation. There are many low molecular weight agents that serve as free radicals quenchers. Compounds capable of inhibiting free radical reactions are defined as antioxidants which have been claimed to prevent lipid peroxidation reaction in the skin and to inhibit free radicals and resulting inflammatory responses. Tomato fruit is the major source of lycopene and can be studied for its antioxidant activity in cosmetic and pharmaceutical field.