Nectapharma’s take
Astaxanthin is a type of antioxidant in the carotenoid family that the human body cannot produce on its own, but can be naturally obtained from certain sources. Today, astaxanthin is widely used in dietary supplements and health-care products due to its exceptional antioxidant potency—reported to be up to 6,000 times stronger than vitamin C.[1]
In addition, its broad range of biological benefits has led to extensive scientific research, making astaxanthin increasingly well-known for what it is and what benefits it can offer.[2]
| Common Name | Astaxanthin |
| Appearance | Reddish-orange pigment |
| Source | Haematococcus pluvialis microalgae |
| Benefits | Provides potent antioxidant protection while supporting healthy skin, heart and vascular function, eye health, and overall brain and nervous system performance. |
| Recommended Product | Nectapharma Luminari Astaxanthin |
TLDR
Astaxanthin is an antioxidant up to 6,000 times stronger than vitamin C.
Astaxanthin from AstaReal is cultivated in a closed-system environment, resulting in a consistently high-quality, safe, and contamination-free antioxidant.
AstaReal is the most clinically researched astaxanthin, with over 70 studies supporting benefits for skin, cardiovascular health, eye protection, and brain and nervous system support.
For optimal absorption, astaxanthin should be taken with food or immediately after breakfast.
Where is Astaxanthin Found?
Astaxanthin is a naturally occurring red antioxidant found in various sources such as algae, yeast, bacteria, and red-colored seafood including fish and crustaceans.[3], [4] Today, the most important and widely used natural source for astaxanthin production is the microalgae Haematococcus pluvialis.[1]
This microalga is capable of producing exceptionally high levels of astaxanthin as a self-protective mechanism against oxidative stress, making it a superior and safe antioxidant compared to synthetic astaxanthin.[5], [6]
Commercial cultivation of Haematococcus pluvialis for astaxanthin production is typically done using two main methods:axanthin Found?
Open-System Cultivation
Open-system cultivation for astaxanthin production involves growing Haematococcus pluvialis in outdoor ponds or raceway systems using natural sunlight. This method offers the advantage of producing large quantities at a lower cost.
However, it has significant drawbacks: controlling light intensity, temperature, and other growth-related factors is difficult, resulting in inconsistent quality. Additionally, open systems carry a higher risk of environmental contamination, which can negatively affect the purity and antioxidant quality of the astaxanthin produced.[5], [7]
Closed-System Cultivation
Closed-system cultivation for astaxanthin production involves growing Haematococcus pluvialis in a fully controlled environment, where key factors such as light, temperature, and nutrient conditions can be precisely regulated to optimize growth. This method allows the microalgae to grow more efficiently and significantly reduces the risk of contamination, resulting in a higher-quality and safer antioxidant.
The main drawback, however, is the higher production cost associated with this cultivation method.[5], [7]
What Makes AstaReal Astaxanthin Special?
AstaReal is one of the most trusted and reputable branded sources of astaxanthin used in dietary supplements today. It is produced from Haematococcus pluvialis microalgae cultivated in a closed-system environment in Japan, ensuring high purity, safety, and freedom from contamination.
Importantly, AstaReal is the most scientifically validated form of astaxanthin, supported by more than 70 studies covering its safety profile, clinically proven benefits, and effective dosage.
A Powerful Antioxidant Backed by Research
Astaxanthin is a potent antioxidant known not only for its superior free-radical–fighting capacity but also for its anti-inflammatory properties. It supports cellular repair and helps slow age-related decline particularly in skin health.
Beyond its skin benefits, astaxanthin offers a wide range of health advantages, including supporting immune function, protecting the nervous system, and promoting heart and vascular health.[1], [2], [3]
Skin Benefits of Astaxanthin: Clinically Proven Results
Astaxanthin: A Standout Ingredient for Effectively Reducing Premature Wrinkles
As more people place greater importance on skin health especially concerns related to aging astaxanthin has become a highly sought-after antioxidant. Numerous studies consistently report that supplementing with astaxanthin can significantly stimulate collagen and elastin production, enhance skin elasticity, and reduce the appearance of wrinkles with clinically meaningful results.[6], [9]
