(Pronounced “asta-zan-thin”)
As you all probably know, I am Ingredient obsessed and when I can’t grow it on my own, I am constantly on the look out for sources that stay true to my values of quality and sustainability. I have put my trust in scientific research and studies to provide you with products that have effective ingredients, not buzzwords or marketing hype. Each of my formulas is packed with ingredients and actives that I’ve spent time researching and are chosen not only to be the best for the job but also based on the values I share with individual suppliers.
Speaking of buzzwords, Astaxanthin actually falls in to a very common buzzword in skincare, antioxidants. But not all antioxidants are created equally, "Astaxanthin is essentially the Clark Kent of antioxidants.” Astaxanthin is a potent antioxidant known as a carotenoid, found in various foods," says Joshua Zeichner, MD, a dermatologist based in New York City and the director of Cosmetic and Clinical Research in Dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital. "It naturally has a bright red/orange color, and its high content in salmon is what gives it its color. It also is found in some forms of red algae. Studies have shown that the antioxidant ability of astaxanthin is much more powerful than Vitamin C."
Using 700 km of glass tubes, solar energy and recycled sea water, the supplier I work with has converted non-fertile land into an antioxidant oasis. Moreover, the cultivation process is safe and preserves crops, using carbon dioxide, creating oxygen as its sole waste. In the beginning the micro-algae starts out as green, but as the harsh sun stresses the algae it produces and accumulates astaxanthin, a deep red anti-inflammatory carotenoid that gives health foods like salmon, tomato’s, persimmons and carrots their glowing orange hue.
Astaxanthin is a freshwater algae which is said to be much more effective than vitamin C and vitamin E in eliminating free radicals that cause premature aging.
Given these powerful properties and their impact on skincare, it is no wonder Astaxanthin has become an increasingly popular ingredient found in skincare formulations. According to research, Astaxanthin contains impressively more antioxidants than any other superfood heroes, is anywhere from 10 to 100 times more powerful than other popular carotenoids like beta-carotene and lycopene, and is considered to be even more powerful than the skin enhancing ingredients of Vitamin C and Vitamin E.
You can find Astaxanthin in our new Barrier Strengthening & Collagen Building Carotenoid Serum and now in our Antioxidant Serum with Seabuckthorn and Carrot Root.
**When ingested it is known to support brain, eye, cardiovascular, joint and immune function. Used topically and internally it has demonstrated the ability to protect UV against UV damage, reduce fine lines, wrinkles, water loss and skin elasticity as well as lessen hyperpigmentation.***
Ingredient Spotlight Fast Facts:
Ingredient Type: Carotenoid (red, yellow & orange pigments produced by plants, algae, and bacteria).
Main Benefits: improves dryness, protects the skin from free radicals and sun damage. It is important to note that Astaxanthin does not replace spf, but is a great teammate to protection.
Who’s It For? Recommended for all ages and skin types
How Often Can You Use It? Morning and night safely
Works well with: moisturizers, face oils, spf
to my knowledge, I do not know if/ have not heard of any product contradictions.
*Astaxanthin will soon be incorporated into the Antioxidant Serum with Seabuckthorn and Carrot Root and into most serums I make.*
