A potent antioxidant, astaxanthin is a common ingredient in skincare products. It has numerous benefits, including the ability to mitigate the phenomenon of premature skin aging. But what about potential side effects associated with the use of astaxanthin on the skin?
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Astaxanthin: Possible Side Effects on Skin Use?
Summary
- Astaxanthin, in brief
- Are there contraindications to the topical use of astaxanthin?
- Are there precautions for topical use of astaxanthin?
Published May 17, 2023,
updated on January 29, 2024,
by
Manon, Scientific Editor
—
3 min read
Astaxanthin, in brief.
Theastaxanthin is a liposoluble natural pigment from the carotenoid family. With a color ranging from orange-red to pink, it is responsible for the coloring of many seafood. Indeed, it is found in krill, crustaceans, plankton, salmon, pink bream, and trout. However, its main natural source is a micro-algae, called Haematococcus pluvialis.
It shares many metabolic and physiological parameters in common with beta-carotene, zeaxanthin, and lutein. The presence of hydroxyl and keto terminations on the ionone groups, endows it with antioxidant properties that are higher than other carotenoids. Moreover, it has the unique characteristic of never becoming pro-oxidant and it does not convert into vitamin A in the body.
Thanks to its properties, this liposoluble pigment has become a favored ingredient in skincare formulas. Astaxanthin isnow a key ally against skin aging: it prevents wrinkles and fine lines, hydrates the skin, protects it from UV rays, and maintains the skin's tone and elasticity. But can its topical use cause any adverse effects?
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Are there contraindications to the topical use of astaxanthin?
As of today, there are no known side effects from the topical use of astaxanthine. It is a compound that is suitable for all skin types. However, usage precautions are necessary.
The effect of astaxanthin during pregnancy and breastfeeding is not yet very well understood. As a precaution, the use of astaxanthin in topical applications should be moderate for pregnant and breastfeeding women.
Are there precautions for topical use of astaxanthin?
It is possible to be allergic to astaxanthin. Certain skin types exhibit a sensitivity to Hematococcus pluvialis, the primary natural source of astaxanthin. Therefore, it is recommended to discontinue the use of the skincare product if irritation, inflammation, or itching occur on the skin.
To ensure that you are not allergic to astaxanthin, we advise you to perform a tolerance test beforehand. To do this:
Apply a small amount of the product in the crook of your elbow or behind the ear;
Wait 24 hours and observe the area. If it remains unaltered, this indicates that your skin tolerates the astaxanthin or the skincare product containing it. However, discontinue use if you experience warming, blistering, itching, redness, or any other allergic reactions.
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