Astaxanthin
Astaxanthin (Natural)
Powerful carotenoid antioxidant from algae, studied for skin health, eye protection, and exercise recovery with unique membrane-spanning properties.
Astaxanthin is a red-orange carotenoid pigment found in salmon, shrimp, and microalgae. It's one of the most potent natural antioxidants, with unique molecular properties allowing it to span cell membranes for comprehensive protection. Research shows benefits for skin health, eye fatigue, exercise recovery, and cardiovascular markers.
Mechanisms of Action
Membrane-Spanning Antioxidant
Uniquely protects entire cell membrane
Anti-Inflammatory
Reduces inflammatory signaling
Mitochondrial Protection
Protects cellular powerhouses from damage
Recommended Dose
4-12mg
Optimal Timing
- With a meal containing fat
Take with food
Best Form
Softgels from Haematococcus pluvialis algae
Alternatives: Oil, Capsules
Natural astaxanthin from algae is preferred over synthetic. Look for products from H. pluvialis microalgae.
Duration
Minimum: 4 weeks
Optimal: 8 weeks
Cycling: Not required
Note: Fat-soluble — take with dietary fat for absorption. Can be taken any time of day.
Skin Health
Improved skin moisture, elasticity, and UV protection
Reduced Eye Fatigue
Less eye strain from screens
Exercise Recovery
Reduced oxidative stress after exercise
Likely safe at low doses; insufficient data for high doses
Who Should NOT Take This
- Allergy to algae or seafood (check source)
Drug Interactions
May have mild antiplatelet effects
May affect 5-alpha reductase activity
Possible Side Effects
Tip: Reduce dose; harmless and reversible
Tip: Take with food
Warnings
- May cause harmless orange skin tint at very high doses
- Natural algae-sourced is preferred over synthetic
Davinelli S et al. • Marine Drugs (2018)
“Astaxanthin supplementation improved skin elasticity, moisture, and reduced wrinkles.”
Key Findings:
- Improved skin elasticity
- Increased moisture retention
- Reduced wrinkle depth
Nagaki Y et al. • Journal of Traditional Medicine (2002)
“Astaxanthin supplementation reduced symptoms of visual fatigue.”
Key Findings:
- Reduced eye strain symptoms
- Improved accommodation
- Benefits for screen workers
Earnest CP et al. • International Journal of Sports Medicine (2011)
“Astaxanthin improved cycling time-trial performance and power output.”
Key Findings:
- Improved time-trial performance
- Increased power output
- Reduced oxidative stress markers
AI-discovered studies. Verify citations before citing.
Astaxanthin supplementation and cognitive function in older adults: A double-blind randomized controlled trial
Nakamura T et al. • Nutrients (2024)
This RCT suggests astaxanthin may support cognitive health in aging populations through improved cerebral circulation.
- Significant improvement in working memory scores (Cohen's d = 0.67)
- Enhanced processing speed in attention-based tasks
- Increased cerebral blood flow measured by near-infrared spectroscopy
Astaxanthin for skin health: A systematic review
DOIDavinelli S et al. • Marine Drugs (2018)
Astaxanthin supplementation improved skin elasticity, moisture, and reduced wrinkles.
- Improved skin elasticity
- Increased moisture retention
- Reduced wrinkle depth
Astaxanthin and exercise-induced oxidative stress
DOIEarnest CP et al. • International Journal of Sports Medicine (2011)
Astaxanthin improved cycling time-trial performance and power output.
- Improved time-trial performance
- Increased power output
- Reduced oxidative stress markers