How Does Astaxanthin Benefit Our Skin?
Skin aging is an inevitable biological phenomenon induced by internal and external factors.
Long-term exposure to solar ultraviolet (UV) radiation is the primary external factor of skin aging and is known as “photoaging.”[1] Oxidative stress is a major cause of photoaging and premature aging of the skin.
Studies suggest that natural astaxanthin, is one of the most powerful antioxidants known in nature and, as such, it can promote healthy skin aging. It reduces oxidative stress, improves skin appearance, and reduces fine lines and wrinkles.[2]
Skin and oxidative stress
The skin is the largest organ of the human body. Its primary function is separating and protecting the inner part of the body from the external environment.
The skin is constantly exposed to internal and external factors that impact its structure, function, and appearance, and thus visible aging. Environmental factors, such as prolonged exposure to the sun, pollution, cigarettes and toxins damage the skin. The production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) is a major cause of skin damage. An imbalance between free radical activity and antioxidant activity results in oxidative stress.
Oxidative stress impairs the natural renewal and repair process of the skin and damages DNA directly, leading to cell mutations and premature aging.
The visible signs of aging that develop include fine lines, wrinkles, sagging and age spots.
Astaxanthin is one of the most powerful antioxidants known in nature. It provides both nutritional and protective benefits to the skin.
One of the best ways to protect and maintain healthy skin is by both dietary consumption and topical application of Astaxanthin (AstaPure®).
Dozens of clinical studies have demonstrated astaxanthin’s ability to revitalize the skin from both within and topically.[3]
Astaxanthin May Provide Another Layer of Protection Against UV Damage
When skin is exposed to UV radiation, the amount of UV radiation that will produce minimal erythema (MED) can be measured. Following 9 weeks of 4mg daily dietary astaxanthin supplementation, the MED levels increased more than fourfold, indicating that astaxanthin protects the skin from UV radiation damage.[4]
In another study, human dermal fibroblasts were exposed to UVA radiation followed by the addition of astaxanthin which was shown to reduce MMP-1 and enzyme that breaks down the interstitial collagen.[5]
Fine Line Reduction Smoother, Flawless Skin
Both oral and topical use of astaxanthin have shown to help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. In one study, 30 healthy female adult participants consumed 6mg of astaxanthin per day and applied a topical solution containing astaxanthin as well. Their skin showed positive results in just eight weeks.[6]
A comprehensive review of the use of astaxanthin on skin health, repair, and disease concluded that astaxanthin is a promising compound in the field of dermatology. The same review revealed that astaxanthin’s effects are due to its inhibition of collagenases (the enzymes that break down collagen), countering inflammatory mediators, aiding ROS reduction, and resulting in potent antioxidant and anti-wrinkle effects.[7]
AstaPure® Natural Astaxanthin by Solabia-Algatech Nutrition
AstaPure® is derived from the microalgae Haematococcus pluvialis, the richest source of natural astaxanthin.
AstaPure® is consistent in quality, high in purity, free of contaminants, and produced in accordance with sustainable standards. Solabia -Algatech Nutrition’s manufacturing process is fully sustainable, relying on solar energy and water recycling technology.
It is produced in a GMP, ISO-9001:2015 and ISO 22000:2018 certified facility. AstaPure is vegan and a verified Non-GMO project, certified as USDA Organic, as well as kosher and halal certified.
Top Astaxanthin Questions Related to skin Health
Is astaxanthin can protect human skin against the sun?
Studies show that astaxanthin may support skin health and should be used as another layer of protection in summer days. Astaxanthin creates another important layer of protection that supports the skin’s health over time. A daily intake of natural astaxanthin can enhance the skin protection, as was shown in several studies. Astaxanthin is not a replacement of a sunscreen or other necessary products to protect from the sun, like a hat and protective clothing.
What are the skin benefits from Astaxanthin treatment?
Astaxanthin which is a very strong anti-oxidant protects the skin from the damage of free radicals. It also has anti inflammatory properties. Astaxanthin was shown to improve skin moisture and elasticity, reduce wrinkles and fine lines and reduce the appearance and formation of age spots.
Is astaxanthin more effective than other antioxidants?
Astaxanthin is a very strong anti-oxidant much more potent than vitamin C and E. It also reaches the skin cells following the consumption by mouth enhancing skin protection from free radicals produced by exposure to external (UV, blue light, smoke, pollution etc,) and internal factors.
Are there any side effects or potential risks associated with using astaxanthin?
Astaxanthin has been in use over 30 years. Many clinical studies have shown its efficacy and highly safety profile.
Astaxanthin is approved for use and is generally considered as safe. No adverse reactions were reported with the use of Astaxanthin.
Does astaxanthin have an effect on collagen levels in the skin?
In human studies Astaxanthin enhanced collagen production. In studies with human skin cells such as fibroblasts Astaxanthin was shown to promote the production and secretion of collagen enriching the extracellular fluid with collagen.
How much astaxanthin should need to be taken daily for skin improvement ?
Total recommended daily dose is 4-8 mg of Astaxanthin per day.
References:
[1] Ricardo Bosch, Mechanisms of Photoaging and Cutaneous Photocarcinogenesis, and Photoprotective Strategies with Phytochemicals. Antioxidants 2015, 4, 248-268; doi:10.3390
[2] Kumi Tominaga, Protective effects of astaxanthin on skin deterioration. J Clin Biochem Nutr. 2017 Jul; 61(1): 33–39
[3] Kritarth Naman Singh, Protective effects of astaxanthin on skin: Recent scientific evidence, possible mechanisms, and potential indications. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2020 Jan;19(1):22-27.doi: 10.1111
[4] Naoki Ito et al, The Protective Role of Astaxanthin for UV-Induced Skin Deterioration in Healthy People-A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial. Nutrients 2018 Jun 25;10(7):817. doi: 10.3390
[5] Suganuma, K.; Nakajima, H.; Ohtsuki, M.; Imokawa, G. Astaxanthin attenuates the UVA-induced up-regulation of matrix-metalloproteinase-1 and skin fibroblast elastase in human dermal fibroblasts. J. Dermatol. Sci. 2010, 58, 136–142.
[6] Tominagaet al., Cosmetic benefits of astaxanthin on humans subjects. ActaBiochimPol. 2012;59(1):43-47.
[7] Davinelli S, Nielsen M, Scapagnini G, Astaxanthin in Skin Health, Repair, and Disease: A Comprehenisve Review, Nutrients 2018 April;10(4): 522