Astaxanthin
Also known as: Haematococcus pluvialis extract, AstaReal, AstaZine, Zanthin, BioAstin
Astaxanthin is a red keto-carotenoid produced by the microalga Haematococcus pluvialis and responsible for the pink color of salmon and krill. It spans cell membranes and is studied as a lipid-phase antioxidant. Human trials have looked at skin moisture, elasticity, and response to UV exposure, plus exercise recovery and eye fatigue. It is sold as an algal oleoresin in softgels or as beadlets for capsules and gummies.
Research summary
Membrane-spanning carotenoid that quenches singlet oxygen and lipid peroxyl radicals across the lipid bilayer.
Dosage
Daily amounts, of compound.
| Lowest studied | Typical range | Highest studied | Upper limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 mg | 4–12 mg | — | — |
Skin trials mostly used 3–6 mg daily for 8–16 weeks; 4 mg daily raised the minimal erythema dose in one 10-week RCT. Higher doses up to 12 mg appear in exercise and general antioxidant products. Fat-soluble; take with a meal containing fat.
Standardization: assayed as astaxanthin (oleoresin 5–10%; beadlets 1–10%)
Source material: Haematococcus pluvialis algal oleoresin
As supplied: Assumes 10% astaxanthin oleoresin or beadlets (10 mg raw material per 1 mg astaxanthin). 5% grades double the mass.
Format suitability
- Capsule
- Powder
- Tablet
- Softgel
- Gummy
- Liquid
Oil-based; softgel is the default. Beadlet grades allow capsules and gummies. Intense red color; sensitive to heat, light, and oxygen.
Formulation notes
Compatible with other carotenoids and fish oil; no notable formulation conflicts.
Sources
- Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis on the Effects of Astaxanthin on Human Skin Ageing. (Zhou, 2021)PubMed
- The Protective Role of Astaxanthin for UV-Induced Skin Deterioration in Healthy People-A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial. (Ito, 2018)PubMed
- Effects of Astaxanthin Supplementation on Skin Health: A Systematic Review of Clinical Studies. (Ng, 2021)PubMed
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