Although this usage isn’t as common as it used to be, ‘tomato’ is slang for an attractive woman. A ‘hot tomato’ is slang for, well, let’s call it a ‘very’ attractive woman. This was before the ‘Twiggy’ days, which heralded the popularity of the ultra-slim, and probably had something to do with being round, juicy and plump. Regardless of the term’s origin, the fact is, the tomato has a lot to offer that indeed could contribute to you being a hot tomato. It is not only one of the healthiest foods available; it also has several topical uses that will leave your skin healthy and glowing. And if you don’t know what skin type you are, it doesn’t matter – normal, oily, dry, or combination, they all benefit from the tomato as part of a natural skin care routine.

What does the tomato have to offer? One cup of tomatoes contains over 57 percent of the recommended daily value (RDV) of Vitamin C, over 22 percent of the RDV of Vitamin A, and over 10 percent of the RDV of Vitamin K. It is high in nine different minerals and five different B vitamins, and contains a good amount of Vitamin E, protein and dietary fiber. It is also very high in lycopene – the phytochemical that gives the tomato its red color, and is known to be among the most potent antioxidants. When you eat a tomato, this combination of nutrients protects you against various cancers, heart disease, diabetes and migraines. And when you apply tomato pulp to your skin, it leaves it healthy and glowing.

For topical skin treatments, try the following recipes.

For oily skin, use tomato pulp by itself, or in combination with lime juice. Rub the pulp onto the skin, leave it on for 20 minutes to an hour, and wash it off with cool or warm water. This will shrink enlarged pours, and help get rid of blemishes.

For normal skin, juice ½ of one tomato and add two teaspoons of yogurt. Apply to the face and let it dry, then wash it off. This will give your skin a healthy glow. Substituting four tablespoons of buttermilk for the yogurt is also an excellent sunburn treatment.

For dry skin, grind a carrot with a few almonds, and add enough tomato juice to form a paste. Apply it to the face and leave it on for about 20 minutes, then wash off.

Tomato juice mixed with honey is also a great mask for all skin types. Use it on your face and neck, and wash off after about 15 minutes.

When you’ve completed your treatment, apply a good shielding lotion. It’s also good for any skin type, and will protect against damage from the elements, and lock in the moisture needed to keep your skin looking good – and keep you looking like a hot tomato.
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