The long answer: Astaxanthin is from a class of molecules called carotenoids. Carotenoids are famous for their intense color. In fact, astaxanthin has a whole Crayola box of pigments to its credit. It makes tomatoes red, sweet potatoes orange, and egg yolks yellow.

It also colors marine foods; think the pink in salmon and the red in shrimp. The red in some algae comes from astaxanthin, too. Though astaxanthin can be derived from synthetic sources, we prefer to keep it natural. So now we know that astaxanthin is an antioxidant. And an antioxidant is to really nerd out on this topic!

When our skin gets the antioxidant support it needs, whether through diet, ingestible skincare, or topical support, it can handle this stress. But when that burden overwhelms our antioxidant stores, we see visible signs of aging.

Our original gummy, The Base Layer , relies on the antioxidant power of Polypodium Leucotomos PLE , which comes from a class of antioxidants called polyphenols. But as a carotenoid, astaxanthin works slightly differently.

This feature thus protects the entire cell against skin aging. Two studies have measured the effects of a topical application of astaxanthin on skin aging.

Improvements in skin dryness and itching were also reported. The second study reveals a Thus, these studies have demonstrated that astaxanthin could potentially improve skin hydration although its mode of action is not known. A study has revealed that astaxanthine is capable of stimulating collagen production , a protein responsible for skin elasticity, the production of which decreases with age.

Indeed, it is capable of increasing the level of TIMP-1 inhibitor, which reduces the level of matrix metalloproteinases and boosts collagen production.

Present in the form of fibers, collagen is naturally found in the dermis. It ensures tissue regeneration, provides them with great elasticity, as well as high resistance. It acts as a binder between skin cells, which helps to maintain its structure. By promoting its production, astaxanthin allows the skin to regain its elasticity and firmness.

It has been demonstrated that astaxanthin reduces the levels of matrix metalloproteinases MMP and pro-inflammatory cytokines. It inhibits the activity of IκB kinase , a complex responsible for controlling the activation of NF-κB. This keeps NF-κB, a pro-inflammatory signaling pathway, inactive in the cellular cytoplasm, thereby allowing to reduce inflammations caused, for example, by skin diseases and to soothe the skin.

Aware of the numerous benefits provided by astaxanthin, we have chosen to incorporate it into the formulation of our antioxidant face cream.

Along with kale extract INCI: Brassica Oleracea Acephala Leaf Extract and red ginseng extract INCI: Panax Ginseng Root Extract , it delivers numerous beneficial effects on the skin. SEKI T. Effects of astaxanthin from Haematococcus pluvialis on human skin-patch test; skin repeated application test; effect on wrinkle reduction.

Flavour and Fragrance Journal LEE C. Enriched astaxanthin extract from Haematococcus pluvialis augments growth factor secretions to increase cell proliferation and induces MMP1 degradation to enhance collagen production in human dermal fibroblasts. International Journal of Molecular Sciences ITO N.

The protective role of astaxanthin for UV-induced skin deterioration in healthy people: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Nutrients NAME J. Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory mechanisms of action of astaxanthin in cardiovascular diseases Review.

International Journal of Molecular Medicine ZHOU X. Systematic review and meta-analysis on the effects of astaxanthin on human skin ageing.

Astaxanthin is a powerful moisturiser , ideal for those with sensitive skin. Because of its unusual molecular structure, astaxanthin is an extremely potent yet safe antioxidant that moisturises your skin from the inside out, leaving you with a bouncy, dewy complexion.

Because of its powerful anti-inflammatory properties, astaxanthin can be effective for those with sensitive skin that is prone to redness or irritation.

Beyond the many impressive skincare benefits, there is a growing number of clinical studies showing that astaxanthin supplementation can provide a variety of important health benefits. Indeed, due to its potent anti-inflammatory effects throughout the body, astaxanthin has been found to be beneficial to the cardiovascular system while supporting eye and brain health.

At INTU WELLNESS, we believe in ingredients that are backed by traditional and scientific evidence, that not only help you achieve your ideal skin, but also make you feel your best. We believe that nourishing your body and listening to its cues is key to feeling and looking your best.

For these reasons, astaxanthin is a star ingredient in the INTU WELLNESS product line. Easy Sign-Up: Just select "Afterpay" as your form of payment at checkout. All you need is a debit or credit card Visa or Mastercard to create an account. Your order will be shipped as soon as INTU WELLNESS process it.

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