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ANTIOXIDANTS

Astaxanthin

Skin · eye · UV defense · antioxidant

STRONG EVIDENCEVEGANREAD THE RESEARCH
Written to our editorial standards · reviewed against published research· Updated 2 Jun 2026
Last reviewed: May 30, 2026
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Astaxanthin: Skin · eye · UV defense · antioxidant. The most powerful naturally-occurring antioxidant. Crosses the blood-brain and blood-retinal barriers. Supports skin elasticity from within. Standard dose 12 mg, taken in the morning, about $22/month. Evidence rating: strong evidence.

What is Astaxanthin?

Astaxanthin is a deep-red carotenoid produced by the microalga Haematococcus pluvialis and concentrated in salmon, krill, and flamingos. It has the highest antioxidant capacity of any naturally occurring carotenoid, many times more potent than vitamin C or beta-carotene against certain types of oxidative stress. Unlike most antioxidants, astaxanthin crosses both the blood-brain barrier and the blood-retinal barrier, contributing to brain and eye health. Clinical studies support its use for skin elasticity, moisture, and protection against UV damage from within. Typical doses are 4-12 mg per day with a fat-containing meal for absorption.

WHY IT MATTERS

The most powerful naturally-occurring antioxidant. Crosses the blood-brain and blood-retinal barriers. Supports skin elasticity from within.

Natural food sources

Where possible, get Astaxanthin from whole foods first. Common dietary sources include:

Wild salmonShrimpKrillTroutLobster

Where to buy

Sports Research Astaxanthin 12mg with Coconut Oil
RECOMMENDED
Sports Research, Astaxanthin
12 mg · Morning · ~$22/month

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Common questions

What is Astaxanthin?
Astaxanthin is a deep-red carotenoid produced by the microalga Haematococcus pluvialis and concentrated in salmon, krill, and flamingos. It has the highest antioxidant capacity of any naturally occurring carotenoid, many times more potent than vitamin C or beta-carotene against certain types of oxidative stress. Unlike most antioxidants, astaxanthin crosses both the blood-brain barrier and the blood-retinal barrier, contributing to brain and eye health. Clinical studies support its use for skin elasticity, moisture, and protection against UV damage from within. Typical doses are 4-12 mg per day with a fat-containing meal for absorption.
What is Astaxanthin used for?
Skin · eye · UV defense · antioxidant. The most powerful naturally-occurring antioxidant. Crosses the blood-brain and blood-retinal barriers. Supports skin elasticity from within.
What is the standard dose of Astaxanthin?
12 mg, typically taken in the morning. Approximate cost is $22 per month.
How strong is the evidence for Astaxanthin?
Strong evidence for its primary uses. See the full study list on the research page.

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