Lycopene for Hair

by Vorst Canada September 12, 2022

DISCLAIMER: This article has been written for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Most of us don’t have an idea about the amazing nutrient hidden in our kitchen while treating our hair loss problems. Yes, we are talking about lycopene! It is a potent ingredient found in many fruits and vegetables like grapefruit, watermelon, apricot, tomatoes, and guava and is beneficial for skin and hair. Modern research has unrevealed effects of lycopene on hair and skin and other body health. This article details lycopene's effects on general health and possible risk and side effects.

What is Lycopene?

Lycopene is an antioxidant compound primarily found in tomatoes and possesses potent anti-aging properties. It is beta-carotene which is an organic pigment that gives color to various fruits and vegetables.

Antioxidants are compounds that protect the body from the harmful effects of free radicals. Lycopene’s antioxidant levels protect the body from oxidative damage and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Various test tube and animal studies concluded that lycopene protects the body from damage caused by herbicides, pesticides, and fungi.

Lycopene is abundantly found in tomatoes, especially in processed tomatoes. It is a fat-soluble compound belonging to the class of carotenoids and is easily absorbed when taken with fats. Absorption of lycopene is increased when it is taken with a moderate amount of fats 10-15g. For instance, one tablespoon of olive oil on tomato salad and cooked food will increase absorption.

Is Lycopene Effective for Hair?

Lycopene offers a perk of benefits to hair, skin, and body and reduces the risk of hair problems. This amazing compound is known to prevent hair loss due to its potent antioxidant potential. Poor blood circulation and high oxidative stress caused by free radicals lead to hair loss. Lycopene do wonders to reduce hair loss as it can prevent oxidative stress and improve blood circulation. It helps improve blood flow, restore cell structure and boost scalp health.

Lycopene also has the ability to relieve inflammation and increase collagen production which is beneficial for both hair and skin. It is used as a primary ingredient in several hair and skin care treatments to prevent the breaking, drying, and fading of hair.

The research was conducted to evaluate the effects of hair growth-promoting activities of lycopene. A hair tonic was prepared by adding ethyl acetate extract, supercritical CO2 extract, and lycopene. This hair tonic was applied on the dorsal skin of mice once a week for four weeks.

After 4 weeks, results showed a significant hair growth potential similar to placebo. There was also reported a significant improvement in mRNA expression of growth factor, keratinocyte growth factor, and insulin-like growth factor. The results concluded that lycopene helped increase hair growth and prevent hair loss. Well! Lycopene is an effective hair care supplement and prevents premature hair loss.

How Does it Work?

DHT is produced by testosterone, which may look like a good, masculinizing thing, but it can actually cause hair loss in men genetically predisposed to androgenic alopecia, and far from making them feel male and vibrant, it can reduce their self-esteem.

Male androgenic alopecia is a common type of baldness in males affecting about 30-50% of people at age 50. Genetic factors and hormonal alterations make the person more likely to suffer from hair loss. Like many other supplements, lycopene supplements also block the DHT (dihydrotestosterone).

Lycopene contains chemicals with potent antioxidant abilities which protect the cells from harmful damage caused by free radicals. By blocking DHT, it decreases oiliness, prevents dandruff and follicle damage, and softens the hair.

In addition to lycopene supplements, several foods are rich in lycopene and act as DHT blockers. It is suggested to eat fresh and raw fruits and vegetables to promote skin, hair, and overall health of the body.

Other Benefits

In addition to hair health, lycopene also provides a perk of benefits to the body. There is ongoing research on the bone-strengthening effects of lycopene. It can affect bone metabolism, improve bone density and provide strength to the bone. Studies showed that lycopene consumption is associated with a reduced risk of heart disease and stroke. These supplements also prevent the onset of cataracts and macular degeneration and reduce the risk of blindness in elder people.

How Much Lycopene Should Be Used?

There is no strict recommendation for the dosage of lycopene supplements however, the person should consult the physician before taking these supplements. However, in various studies dosages of 2-75 mg of lycopene are used for 1-6 months. Lower doses are safe to use and do not cause any adverse effects.

Possible Risks or Side Effects

Lycopene offers a variety of benefits to the body but it can also cause some adverse effects. Consumption of large quantities of lycopene may cause red or orange discoloration of the skin and the condition is called lycopenodermia. The symptoms resolve once you quit eating high-lycopene foods and avoid lycopene supplements.

Lycopene may prevent blood clotting and can increase the risk during and after surgery. It is recommended to avoid lycopene supplements 2 weeks before surgery to avoid excessive bleeding. Taking lycopene supplements with other carotenoids like beta-carotene or lutein may reduce its absorption.

These supplements should be avoided in pregnancy as they may cause preterm labor and low birthweight babies. Always take the advice of a medical professional before using lycopene supplements during pregnancy. Though there is not sufficient research on the effects of lycopene on breastfed babies, but to be on the safe side, these supplements should be avoided during lactation or should be used after consulting with the pediatrician.

Bottom Line

Lycopene is a potent antioxidant belonging to a class of carotenoids and helps prevent damage caused by free radicals. Studies revealed that lycopene can promote hair growth, improve scalp health and reduce hair loss.

Lycopene can also be obtained from foods like tomatoes, watermelon, pink grapefruit, and guava. However, people who do not like to eat fruits and vegetables should use antioxidant-rich lycopene supplements.

Here you can check out Vorst’s premium supplement super Lycopene 100mg 60 capsules.

References

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3093095/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3942711/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26231422/

https://www.mdpi.com/2076-3921/10/3/342

https://nutritionj.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12937-016-0186-5

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5315033/

https://translational-medicine.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12967-020-02238-7

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12921892/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26549245/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24397881/