Colourless carotenoids are members of the carotenoid family, not an alternative to carotenoids. The useful comparison is between compounds such as lycopene and beta-carotene, which have visible colour, and phytoene and phytofluene, which are described as colourless.
The difference in colour reflects molecular properties. It does not, on its own, tell you which supplement produces better skin results.
What makes a carotenoid coloured or colourless?
Carotenoids are a diverse family of compounds found in plants and other organisms. Lycopene is associated with red colour, while beta-carotene is associated with orange colour. Phytoene and phytofluene absorb in different parts of the light spectrum and lack the visible colour associated with those familiar examples.
Experimental work on phytoene and phytofluene documents their UV absorption properties. This is a molecular finding, not a measurement of sunscreen protection after swallowing a capsule.
Does colour determine skin benefits?
No. It is not reasonable to conclude that all coloured carotenoids are ineffective for skin, or that all colourless carotenoids guarantee brightening. Compare the compound, formulation and measured outcome.
For example, a randomised tomato phytonutrient trial studied a mixture containing both coloured and colourless carotenoids, alongside other compounds. It cannot establish which individual carotenoid caused an effect or rank colourless ingredients against coloured ingredients in isolation.
Absorption studies answer a different question
Bioaccessibility concerns how much of a compound becomes available for absorption during digestion. Absorption research then asks how it enters the body. Neither measure is identical to a visible skin benefit.
A study using mixed micelles and Caco-2 cells compared phytoene and phytofluene with lycopene in laboratory models. It should not be presented as a clinical trial showing that one supplement fades dark spots faster in people.
When a product uses a large absorption multiplier, ask what was compared and how it was measured. Do not translate that number into the same multiplier for effectiveness.
Where the Crystal Tomato product evidence fits
The current Crystal Tomato® Whitening Supplement lists non-GMO tomato powder and L-cysteine among its ingredients. Assess the complete formula using the brand’s product study summary, rather than transferring results from unrelated carotenoid preparations.
The original article’s study illustrations are retained below. They concern the branded product; they are not a direct comparison of coloured and colourless carotenoids. An erythema measurement concerns redness and should not be read as the same outcome as pigmentation.
Chart 1 — Study on melasma and Crystal Tomato Whitening Supplement: erythema score. Brand-provided study illustration.
Study findings also do not establish that the formula is allergy-free or suitable for everyone. Check the current ingredient list and individual suitability.
How to compare products more usefully
- Identify the actual carotenoids or extract, rather than relying only on “tomato” or “antioxidant”.
- Look for research on the finished formula and the skin outcome relevant to your concern.
- Check whether a trial tested several ingredients together.
- Distinguish a product study from a laboratory absorption experiment.
- Review directions, allergies and other supplements before use.
Our supplement buying checklist expands on these comparisons. For the separate question of “white tomatoes”, read the white tomato myth guide.
Frequently asked questions
Are colourless carotenoids only found in white tomatoes?
No. A compound’s lack of visible colour does not mean it must come from a visibly white fruit. Tomato colour is not an ingredient specification.
Can carotenoids replace sunscreen?
No. Molecular UV absorption or oral research does not provide an equivalent to a sunscreen’s tested protection. Continue appropriate topical sun protection.
Should I avoid coloured vegetables?
No. This comparison is not a reason to restrict a varied diet or replace food with supplements.
