What it does
Two colorless carotenoid antioxidants (often derived from tomatoes) that absorb UV radiation and protect skin from photodamage and visible aging.
Best for
Daytime antioxidant defense, neck and decollete creams (skin areas with high UV exposure), and anti-pollution routines.
The full picture
Phytoene and phytofluene are the colorless members of the carotenoid family, found naturally in tomatoes, carrots, and certain microalgae. Unlike colored carotenoids (beta-carotene, lycopene), they do not tint skin. They absorb in the UV range (280-360 nm) and act as topical antioxidants, complementing rather than replacing SPF. Found in ALASTIN's Restorative Neck Complex as part of the broader skin-protection layer alongside the brand's TriHex peptide work.
Evidence
Phytoene and phytofluene have been shown to absorb UV and reduce photodamage markers in skin studies.
Read the source: PubMed: colorless carotenoids in skin protection ->