An overview on Astaxanthin
Astaxanthin is a supplement I recommend to may patients orally, however it is not suitable for everyone. I am also adding the active ingredient into some of my compounded skin care range so watch this space.
Astaxanthin is hailed as one of the best available ingredients for addressing ageing skin. It is a naturally occurring carotenoid, a type of antioxidant, and using astaxanthin for skin helps prevent oxidative damage caused due to UV rays by inhibiting free radical formation.
In addition, it helps moisturize your skin and improves skin texture.
Top 5 Benefits of Astaxanthin (ASX) For Skin
Astaxanthin has photoprotective, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. Extensive research during the last two decades has revealed the mechanism by which continued oxidative stress leads to chronic inflammation, which in turn, mediates many chronic diseases including neurodegeneration, cancer, and skin damage. It is well established that various pro-inflammatory markers in skin are increased as a result of UV exposure. Keratinocytes play a crucial role in the photo-damage response after UV exposure by releasing pro-inflammatory mediators. It has been shown that ASX treatment prevents the damaging effects of UV by decreasing UV-induced reactive nitrogen species production, inflammatory cytokine expression, and apoptosis in keratinocytes.
If you have extremely dry and damaged skin Astaxanthin may just be a useful supplement for you.
Skin care benefits:
1. Protects The Skin Against Free Radicals And Sun Damage
Consuming astaxanthin as a natural supplement can provide UV protection by suppressing the cell damage that is caused by free radicals .This ingredient can even slow down the growth of skin cancer cells .
2. Reduces Dryness
According to a study conducted in Japan, astaxanthin aids in reducing the loss of skin moisture and improves the texture of rough skin.
3. Treats Inflammatory Skin Diseases
Considering that Astaxanthin prevents the damaging effects of UV rays on the skin, this ingredient is an important component of several anti-inflammatory drugs that help treat inflammatory skin diseases such as psoriasis and atopic dermatitis .
4. May Prevent Wounds From Becoming Worse
According to research on rats, Astaxanthin has significant antioxidant properties that help activate the cellular antioxidant defence system. This helps in protecting the skin against early burn wound progression and accelerates wound healing.
5. Delays Skin Aging
Research also indicates that ASX may have anti-aging properties and play a promising functional role in treating and preventing skin aging and promoting overall skin health. Using a topical cream containing ASX combined with other active ingredients may promote collagen production and significantly reduce wrinkles and puffiness under the eyes and on the cheeks after two weeks of use.
6. Improves Skin Moisture And Elasticity
A study was conducted in Italy on women who were given 2 mg of ASX. After six weeks of ASX treatment, significant improvements were observed in their skin moisture levels and elasticity.
Astaxanthin can be used by most people of all ages and skin types. It is particularly useful for people with sensitive skin, owing to its anti-inflammatory properties, which aid in reducing skin redness, sensitivity, and inflammation.
If you have dry and damaged skin, using astaxanthin the right way can make a difference. This ingredient can be used twice every day – morning and night – in the form of a serum, moisturizer, or oil. Make sure to read the label and conduct a patch test to ensure that you are not allergic to ASX.
Astaxanthin pills can also be taken orally. You can take astaxanthin in doses of 4 to 40 mg daily for up to 12 weeks or 12 mg daily for 6 months, then review.
You can combine ASX with other carotenoids, vitamins, and minerals.
Side Effects Of Astaxanthin
Astaxanthin is safe to use when used topically. However, if you are ingesting it, this ingredient can have side effects. Here are a few precautionary measures to keep in mind when consuming astaxanthin in any form.
Risks
For men, some laboratory studies have shown astaxanthin may hinder testosterone pathways leading to lower libido for men or male breast growth.
It has also been reported to reduce blood pressure.
As per all supplements, best avoided if breast feeding or pregnant.
Is astaxanthin better than vitamin C for skin care?
According to anecdotal evidence, astaxanthin might be a better option for some as it is stronger than vitamin C, some studies suggest 1000 x stronger. Both skincare ingredients act as antioxidants that manage free radicals and can be used together as well.
Which is better, astaxanthin or glutathione?
Astaxanthin and glutathione are antioxidants that help protect the skin from damage and promote its health. There is a lack of studies comparing their benefits and hence it is difficult to say which one works better.
Does astaxanthin reduce melanin?
A study noted that astaxanthin may inhibit the production of melanin and thus may be used to reduce hyperpigmentation and dark spots however, more research is needed to achieve conclusive results.
Can astaxanthin be used to treat specific skin conditions, such as acne or eczema?
A study showed that astaxanthin may be used to manage the symptoms of atopic dermatitis and itching in mice by regulating the levels of inflammation
Key Takeaways
Astaxanthin is a pigment molecule found in marine and freshwater algae, belonging to the carotenoid family.
This powerful ingredient has an unusual amount of photoprotective, anti-oxidant, and anti-inflammatory capabilities.
It can minimize wrinkles and age spots, improve skin elasticity and texture, and enhance skin’s moisture content.
This ingredient can be applied twice a day, in the morning and night, as a serum, moisturizer, or oil. Oral astaxanthin pills are also available.
Evidence
Astaxanthin: A Review of its Chemistry and Applications
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/7342548_Astaxanthin_A_Review_of_its_Chemistry_and_Applications
Astaxanthin: A potential carotenoid
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/265009819_Astaxanthin_A_potential_carotenoid
Cosmetic benefits of astaxanthin on humans subjects
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/221716548_Cosmetic_benefits_of_astaxanthin_on_humans_subjects.
Astaxanthin in Skin Health Repair and Disease: A Comprehensive Review
https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/10/4/522
The Protective Role of Astaxanthin for UV-Induced Skin Deterioration in Healthy People—A Randomized Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Trial
https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/10/7/817
Astaxanthin: A Review of the Literature
https://www.naturalmedicinejournal.com/journal/2012-02/astaxanthin-review-literature
Protective effects of astaxanthin on skin deterioration
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5525019/
Efficacy of Astaxanthin for the Treatment of Atopic Dermatitis in a Murine Model
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4811408/
Compiled by Victoria Pavasovic