Cosmetic benefits of astaxanthin on humans
Astaxanthin: Astaxanthin derived from Haematococcus pluvialis has been studied for its ability to support skin health across multiple layers. Clinical research has explored both oral supplementation and topical application, showing improvements in visible signs of ageing, hydration and overall skin quality in both men and women.
(Tominaga et al., 2012 – PMID: 22428137)
Science + Skin Transformation
Overview
Two human clinical studies were conducted:
Study 1 (Open-label, 8 weeks)
30 healthy female participants used:
- 6 mg astaxanthin daily (oral)
- 2 ml topical astaxanthin solution daily
Study 2 (Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, 6 weeks)
36 healthy male participants took:
- 6 mg astaxanthin daily (oral) or placebo
- Skin assessments included wrinkle analysis, elasticity, moisture levels, sebum content, and transepidermal water loss (TEWL).
Overview
Two human clinical studies were conducted:
Study 1 (Open-label, 8 weeks)
30 healthy female participants used:
- 6 mg astaxanthin daily (oral)
- 2 ml topical astaxanthin solution daily
Study 2 (Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, 6 weeks)
36 healthy male participants took:
- 6 mg astaxanthin daily (oral) or placebo
- Skin assessments included wrinkle analysis, elasticity, moisture levels, sebum content, and transepidermal water loss (TEWL).
The Study Focus
Researchers aimed to evaluate whether astaxanthin could:
- Reduce visible signs of ageing such as wrinkles and age spots
- Improve elasticity and skin texture
- Enhance moisture retention and barrier function
- Support skin health across multiple layers (epidermis to dermis)
What Affects Skin Ageing & Appearance
Oxidative stress
Environmental factors like UV exposure and pollution can accelerate wrinkle formation and reduce elasticity.
Barrier function decline
Loss of moisture and increased TEWL weaken the skin barrier, leading to dryness and rough texture.
Structural ageing
Over time, collagen and elastin degrade, contributing to fine lines, sagging and uneven skin texture.
What the Study Found
Visible wrinkle and age spot improvements
Crow’s feet wrinkles and cheek age spot size showed noticeable reduction, particularly by Week 8 in female subjects.
Elasticity and texture improved
Skin elasticity and texture improved significantly, with early changes in texture visible as early as Week 4.
Enhanced moisture and barrier function
Moisture levels in the outer skin layer increased, while TEWL decreased, indicating better hydration and barrier integrity.
Whole-skin layer support
Results suggested benefits across multiple skin layers — from the outer corneocyte layer to deeper dermal structures.
Effective for both men and women
While topical + oral combination showed strong results in women, oral supplementation alone also improved skin condition in men.
Key Takeaway