In the ever-evolving world of skincare, astaxanthin is gaining recognition for its ability to support skin health from the inside out. From serums to supplements, astaxanthin is being hailed as a supercharged skin ingredient with multiple benefits for fighting signs of aging and boosting beauty from within. Let’s take a look inside astaxanthin’s benefits for skin!
What is Astaxanthin?
Astaxanthin (“as-ta-ZAN-thin”) is a dark-red carotenoid pigment that’s found naturally in certain foods. We love carotenoids—they give red, orange, and yellow plants their natural color. And they’re good for you! Carotenoids have strong antioxidant action that supports the health of your cells. Other examples of colorful carotenoids are beta-carotene (in carrots), lutein (in leafy greens), and lycopene (in tomatoes).
Where does Astaxanthin come from?
Astaxanthin originates from microalgae: tiny, single-celled plant forms. The high-quality Astaxanthin in New Chapter supplements comes from carefully cultivated Haematococcus pluvialis microalgae. When this type of algae is exposed to bright light, such as the sun, it produces high levels of astaxanthin in a “reddening” process. Some animals actually get their natural color from Astaxanthin! The pinkish hue of salmon, shrimp, krill, and flamingoes all come from Haematococcus pluvialis algae. Keep in mind that Astaxanthin from microalgae is plant-sourced, so it’s completely vegan.
The Science Behind Astaxanthin
Clinical studies have explored astaxanthin’s beneficial effects on skin health, cardiovascular function, healthy aging, and immune response, with dosages typically ranging from 4 to 12 mg per day. Preclinical lab testing has shown astaxanthin to be significantly stronger than vitamin C in neutralizing free radicals—it’s up to 50x more potent! Research continues to study astaxanthin as a powerful science-backed tool for enhancing cellular resilience and overall wellness.
How does astaxanthin work?
Astaxanthin works through antioxidant action. That means it functions in the body to protect cells from free radical damage, also known as oxidative stress. So, what are free radicals? They’re unstable molecules that act like vandals in the body, stealing electrons from healthy molecules and damaging enzymes, DNA, and cell structure. Antioxidants can come to the rescue by donating their electrons to the free radicals. This stabilizes the free radicals, so they no longer try to attack the body.
Researchers have found that astaxanthin has a unique molecular structure that allows it to tackle free radicals both inside and outside the cell. Here’s how it works: A cell membrane is made up of 2 layers that sandwich an inner section made up of fats and proteins. Some antioxidants work to protect the cell from the outside, and others work to protect it from within the cell membrane. Astaxanthin can do both! An astaxanthin molecule has a structure like a long barbell that stretches right through the membrane sandwich—from the outer wall, through the “filling,” and on to the inner wall. Being able to span the membrane this way allows astaxanthin to fight free radical damage on multiple fronts.
What are the benefits of astaxanthin supplements for skin?
Astaxanthin helps protect your skin from everyday stress and visibly improves multiple areas of concern. It can be a smart addition to any beauty routine focused on aging well and unlocking your glow. This impressive vegan ingredient is great for long-term use and for different skin types. (Be sure to ask your health-care professional if you have questions about the right skin-support regimen for you.)
Astaxanthin for reducing the look of crow’s feet, fine lines & wrinkles
Clinical studies have shown that astaxanthin skin supplements can visibly reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, particularly around the eyes. By improving skin texture and reducing inflammation, astaxanthin helps smooth out crow’s feet and other signs of aging.
Astaxanthin for skin elasticity & youthful appearance
Your body creates collagen and elastin proteins for firm, healthy skin. However, this production naturally decreases with age. Astaxanthin can help protect your body’s beauty proteins and enhance your skin elasticity. Regular astaxanthin use has been shown to help skin appear more youthful over time.
Astaxanthin for skin hydration and moisture retention
Astaxanthin helps to lock in skin moisture for a smooth, youthful glow. Astaxanthin skin benefits include helping to strengthen the skin’s barrier function, maintain skin’s overall hydration levels, and support your skin’s natural renewal. Basically, it helps to nourish your gorgeousness from the inside out!
Astaxanthin in modern skincare
Given astaxanthin’s impressive benefits, there’s no wonder it’s been making waves in modern skincare. Here are 3 emerging trends in the red-hot astaxanthin industry.
Trend 1: Topical uses
Astaxanthin is increasingly being incorporated into topical skincare products such as serums, sheet masks, and eye creams. It’s believed to help protect the skin and improve overall tone. When applied directly to the skin, astaxanthin can target areas prone to aging, like the delicate eye area, making it a popular ingredient in anti-aging formulations. More research is needed on Astaxanthin’s topical skin benefits.
Trend 2: Rising demand for organic formulations
As consumers become more ingredient-conscious, there's a growing interest in astaxanthin sourced from organically cultivated microalgae. Brands are responding by offering products that emphasize holistic growing methods—like New Chapter’s Astaxanthin line that is made with pure & potent certified organic algae. Organic astaxanthin not only appeals to conscientious buyers but also aligns with the broader wellness movement that prioritizes responsible, forward-thinking approaches.
Trend 3: K-beauty influence
Korean skincare brands have embraced astaxanthin in multi-step routines, often pairing it with hydrating agents, collagen, or skin-nourishing nutrients to gently enhance glow and resilience. Astaxanthin’s potential as a toning, topical skin ingredient aligns nicely with K-beauty’s emphasis on radiant, youthful skin.
What to look for in astaxanthin supplements
When choosing an astaxanthin skin supplement, it’s helpful to review the label carefully. Look for the amount of astaxanthin per serving, typically measured in milligrams (mg). Science-backed doses often range from 4 to 12 mg daily. Next, check the source—natural astaxanthin derived from Haematococcus pluvialis algae is a great choice because it’s 100% vegan and can be cultivated under organic standards. The label should also highlight key benefits, such as support for skin health and antioxidant action. A transparent supplement brand will clearly list these advantages and provide third-party testing or certifications to confirm the product’s quality and integrity.
New Chapter’s clinical-strength astaxanthin skin supplements
New Chapter has formulated products to deliver a clinically studied amount of Astaxanthin plus other beauty-supportive ingredients. Try one or alternate both in your beauty regimen, to be confident you’re nourishing your skin from within!
Daily Skin Renewal beauty supplement
Get your glow on with the revitalizing antioxidant power of astaxanthin from organic algae plus skin-supportive beauty nutrients A, C, E & fermented zinc. Daily Skin Renewal is our most advanced skin-nourishing formula. Check out all the ingredients & benefits:
- 6 mg of astaxanthin (one capsule daily) is clinically shown to enhance skin elasticity and reduce the look of fine lines and wrinkles, with noticeable results in just 6 weeks.*
- Vitamin C helps build collagen and elastin, the structural proteins that help support skin structure.*
- Vitamins A, C & E are antioxidants that support healthy skin turnover.* Plus, vitamins help protect skin from free radical contact, including UV radiation.
- Fermented Zinc supports skin resilience and helps maintain the integrity of skin and mucosal membranes, such as the lips.*
- The blend is perfected with complementary organic collagen from grass-fed cattle and plant ceramides from konjac root.
Hair, Skin & Nails beauty supplement
Get beauty inspired by nature™ with a one-daily skin supplement that also supports strong, healthy hair and nails.* Hair, Skin & Nails is packed with 4 mg of astaxanthin from organic Haematococcus pluvialis algae, plus 1333% Daily Value of fermented biotin. Biotin is a B vitamin that deeply nourishes hair and nails by supporting your natural production of keratin.* The formula is rounded out with organic Reishi mushroom and complementary herbs like Maca and Aloe.
Start your new chapter in astaxanthin today!
As consumers seek holistic approaches to wellness and beauty, astaxanthin is a standout ingredient for cellular health and radiant skin support. New Chapter’s unique formulas are rich in essential beauty vitamins plus clinically studied astaxanthin that renews skin from within.* We designed our astaxanthin supplements with the finest quality ingredients to help you feel and look your best. Nourish the skin you’re in with New Chapter astaxanthin!
