Antioxidant

Astaxanthin

Also known as: Haematococcus pluvialis, Natural astaxanthin, Red algae extract, Astaxanthin (eye)

Evidence

Astaxanthin is a carotenoid with potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, naturally present in krill and microalgae. It crosses the blood–brain barrier and may support eye, skin, and cellular health.

Last reviewed June 2026 · Evidence graded from peer-reviewed research, not editorial opinion. Educational only — not medical advice.

Find the best Astaxanthin supplements — free

See Astaxanthin products scored on dose & form, then track your intake in the app.

Open app →

Primary uses

Eye health
Skin protection
Endurance
Anti-inflammatory
Eye fatigue
Retinal protection
Eye strain
Circulation
UV protection
Skin elasticity
Skin aging
Wrinkles

How it works

6000x stronger than vitamin C
Crosses blood-brain and blood-retinal barriers
Protects from UV damage

Dosage

Typical range: 4-12 mg daily
Timing: With fat-containing meal
With food: Yes
Duration: Safe long-term
Special populations: Eye health, outdoor athletes, skin aging

Forms

Softgels
Naturally in krill oil· 70/100
Synthetic astaxanthin· 70/100
Microalgae-derived (Haematococcus pluvialis)· 70/100

Safety

Common side effects

Red/orange stool (harmless)

Contraindications

None

Products containing Astaxanthin

Top-scoring supplements in our catalog that list Astaxanthin on the label. Each product is graded on Formulate's ingredient-level rubric — dose accuracy, form, transparency, and third-party testing.

Thorne

Advanced Nutrients

Nootropics Depot

NKO™ Krill Oil Softgels

See all products →

Evidence notes

Exceptionally potent antioxidant

Grade B: Some human trials support key claims; further confirmation needed.

Related in Antioxidant

Check a full stack

Formulate's free interaction checker lets you paste in any combination of supplements and medications at once — every pairing flags severity, timing, and cited evidence.

Open the checker

Where does Astaxanthin fit in your stack?

Answer two questions and get a stack graded on research — every ingredient scored on the evidence behind it, not the marketing.

Build my stack

2 questions · free · no account needed to start

Also on iPhone — get the free app

📬 Get new guides in your inbox

Evidence-based supplement guides, no spam

We send a short digest when new guides drop — nothing else. No affiliate pushes, no sponsored content, unsubscribe anytime.

Medical disclaimer. This page is educational and does not replace advice from a qualified healthcare provider. Individual needs and risks vary — consult a professional before starting, stopping, or combining supplements, especially if you are pregnant or nursing, taking medication, or managing a health condition.