Lycopene

Description

Lycopene is a naturally occurring carotenoid pigment that gives many fruits and vegetables their vibrant red color. As a powerful antioxidant, it plays a crucial role in neutralizing harmful free radicals in the body, which can cause cellular damage and contribute to various chronic diseases. Unlike some other carotenoids, lycopene does not convert to Vitamin A in the body, but its fat-soluble nature means its absorption is significantly enhanced when consumed alongside dietary fats. Scientific research suggests that lycopene contributes significantly to overall health, particularly in the realm of cardiovascular well-being and prostate health. Its antioxidant properties are believed to help protect low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol from oxidation, a key process in the development of atherosclerosis. Furthermore, studies have explored its potential protective effects against certain types of cancers, especially prostate cancer, by modulating cell growth and reducing oxidative stress. Beyond internal health, lycopene also offers notable benefits for skin health. It can accumulate in the skin, providing a degree of natural protection against UV-induced damage and oxidative stress from environmental factors. Regular intake through diet or supplementation may contribute to a healthier complexion and bolster the body's natural defense mechanisms against aging and disease.

Sources

Tomatoes (especially cooked or processed forms like paste, sauce, and juice)WatermelonPink grapefruitGuavaPapayaRed bell peppersApricots

Cheapest Lycopene supplements

Discover the cheapest Lycopene supplements to support vision, cardiovascular health, anti-inflammation, anti-aging, and skin health.

Best Lycopene supplements

Explore the best Lycopene supplements to support your vision, cardiovascular health, and anti-aging goals, while also promoting anti-inflammatory benefits and healthy skin.

Value Lycopene Supplements

Discover top value Lycopene supplements, chosen for their potential to support vision, cardiovascular health, anti-inflammatory action, anti-aging, and skin health.

Timing & Intake

AnytimeWith foodTake with Fat-containing meal

Lycopene is fat-soluble, so taking it with a meal containing some dietary fat will significantly improve its absorption and bioavailability. There are no specific timing restrictions outside of this.

Optimal Dosage

Minimum15 mg

Maximum45 mg

Safety & Toxicity

Goals

Cardiovascular Support

Cardiovascular Support

Typical dose:5–30 mg

Lycopene concentrates in tissues like the adrenal glands, liver, and testes, but its primary cardiovascular benefit comes from its powerful antioxidant capacity. It effectively quenches free radicals, reduces the oxidation of LDL cholesterol (a key step in plaque formation), and has been shown in clinical studies to improve the flexibility and function of blood vessel linings, supporting healthy blood pressure.

Typical dose:5–15 mg

Lycopene is a carotenoid antioxidant that accumulates in the skin, helping to neutralize free radicals generated by UV radiation. This internal photoprotection can reduce photodamage and support the skin's natural defense mechanisms, contributing to a more resilient complexion.

Moderate effect

Typical dose:10–30 mg

Lycopene is a powerful free-radical scavenger that concentrates in tissues like the skin, liver, and prostate. It provides cellular protection against oxidative stress, a key factor in aging. Its demonstrated ability to help mitigate photodamage to the skin makes it a valuable supplement for preserving skin health over time.

Moderate effect

Typical dose:6–20 mg

Lycopene is a powerful antioxidant that accumulates in ocular tissues, including the ciliary body and retinal pigment epithelium. It helps protect the retina and lens by quenching free radicals generated by UV and blue light exposure, offering complementary protection against oxidative stress. Its priority should be updated to reflect its standing as a valuable, though not primary, ocular carotenoid.

Anti-Inflammatory Support

Anti-Inflammatory Support

Situational effect

Typical dose:10–20 mg

Lycopene excels at neutralizing singlet oxygen and other free radicals, making it particularly beneficial for reducing oxidative stress-driven inflammation, such as that affecting the skin from UV exposure or in metabolic conditions. Its role is supportive and antioxidant-focused.

Interactions

Positive Interactions

Can complement lycopene's role in antioxidant defense and overall cellular health, as both are fat-soluble and often found together in healthy diets.

Provides synergistic antioxidant properties for enhanced cellular protection, as both are powerful fat-soluble antioxidants.

Works with lycopene to enhance the body's overall antioxidant defense system, as selenium is a vital component of antioxidant enzymes.

As another potent carotenoid, their combined antioxidant effects may offer broader and enhanced cellular protection.

Provides complementary antioxidant and cellular energy support, particularly beneficial for cardiovascular health when combined with lycopene.

Healthy fats like Omega-3 can significantly enhance the absorption of fat-soluble lycopene and offer complementary cardiovascular and anti-inflammatory benefits.

Product stats

Price per product

Average$32.34

Median$27.38

Price per serving

Average$0.81

Median$0.70

Price distribution

Price per serving distribution

Price per

Paired ingredients

Include multi(35)