The macula is a tiny 5 mm zone at the centre of the retina, responsible for 90% of fine, detailed vision — reading, recognising faces, driving, screens. Its yellow colour comes from a concentration of two carotenoid pigments, lutein and zeaxanthin, which act as a physical filter for blue light (absorbing wavelengths of 400–480 nm before they reach photoreceptors, like an internal “sunscreen” for the retina) and as antioxidant protection, neutralising free radicals generated by light exposure. The body makes neither lutein nor zeaxanthin — they must come from diet (spinach, kale, egg yolk, corn) or supplementation, and macular reserves decline over time if intake is insufficient. In the screen era, daily exposure to artificial blue light (computers, phones, LEDs) significantly increases the demand for these macular pigments.

Lutein (10 mg, marigold extract): the dominant carotenoid in the peripheral macula, at a dose matching the AREDS2 study, the largest clinical trial on eye-health supplementation. Zeaxanthin (5 mg, calendula extract): concentrated at the centre of the macula (fovea), where visual acuity is highest — Crystalino’s 2:1 lutein:zeaxanthin ratio mirrors the macula’s natural ratio. Tomato lycopene (10 mg): a powerful antioxidant carotenoid (ORAC capacity twice that of beta-carotene), present in the lens, helping protect lens proteins from oxidation. Acerola vitamin C (100 mg): a water-soluble antioxidant highly concentrated in the eye’s aqueous humour; acerola provides natural vitamin C, better assimilated than synthetic ascorbic acid. Carrot beta-carotene (125 mg powder): a precursor of vitamin A (retinol), essential for rod function (night vision and dark adaptation). Together these cover the three eye compartments: retina (lutein + zeaxanthin), lens (lycopene + vitamin C) and vitreous humour (vitamin C + beta-carotene).

Computer Vision Syndrome affects 65–90% of screen users, with symptoms including dry eyes, blurred vision by the end of the day, frontal headaches, light sensitivity and stinging. Screens emit high-energy visible (HEV) blue light, which penetrates deep into the eye and reaches the retina, generating free radicals there. Lutein and zeaxanthin are the only antioxidants able to filter this light directly at the macula. Practical tips: the 20-20-20 rule (every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet/6 metres away for 20 seconds); blink regularly (blink rate drops by 60% when looking at a screen); match screen brightness to ambient lighting; and enable “warm light” evening mode (Night Shift, f.lux).

Dose: 1 capsule a day with a meal containing some fat — carotenoids are fat-soluble and are absorbed 3–5 times better with dietary lipids. 60 capsules = 2 months’ course; a minimum 3-month course is recommended, as macular pigments build up slowly in the retina. Pairs well with omega-3 DHA (EFSA-approved claim: “DHA contributes to the maintenance of normal vision”) and zinc (EFSA-approved claim: “zinc contributes to the maintenance of normal vision”).

Not recommended for smokers (due to beta-carotene content). Not recommended for pregnant women without medical advice. Does not replace an ophthalmological consultation in case of persistent visual problems.

Is Crystalino useful for screen-related eye fatigue?

Yes. Lutein and zeaxanthin filter screen blue light directly at the macula, making Crystalino a go-to supplement for people who work at screens all day.

How long before I notice an effect?

Carotenoids build up gradually in the retina. The first effects (reduced glare sensitivity, better light adaptation) typically appear after 2–3 months of regular use.

Can Crystalino be combined with omega-3?

Yes — omega-3 DHA and zinc both have EFSA-approved claims for normal vision and pair naturally with Crystalino’s carotenoid complex.

Herba Barona is an independent specialist supplement shop in the heart of Paris — established in 2006. What you order is genuinely on our shelves: we ship from our own stock, with no dropshipping and no long waits.

Visit us at 10 rue Théophile Roussel, Paris 12 — or use Click & Collect and pick up your order in-store. We also deliver across France and Europe. Friendly, expert advice in English from our team.

Where is the shop?

Herba Barona is at 10 rue Théophile Roussel, 75012 Paris — a two-minute walk from Ledru-Rollin (line 8), close to Bastille. Open Tuesday to Saturday, 9:30 am–6:30 pm.

Can I order online or collect in store?

Yes. We ship across France and Europe under the same conditions as our French store, or choose Click & Collect to pick up your order for free at our Paris shop.