Astaxanthin is a red-orange carotenoid pigment produced by the microalgae Haematococcus pluvialis in response to environmental stress (drought, UV, nutrient scarcity) — the molecule that gives wild salmon, shrimp, flamingos and lobsters their pink colour.

What makes it unique among antioxidants: an exceptional ORAC antioxidant capacity, roughly 6000 times that of vitamin C, 550 times vitamin E, 800 times CoQ10 and 40 times beta-carotene; a transmembrane position, crossing the cell membrane fully to protect both the inner and outer faces, unlike other carotenoids; no pro-oxidant effect, even at high doses, unlike beta-carotene or vitamin E; and the ability to cross the blood-brain and blood-retinal barriers, protecting the brain, eyes and retina, tissues particularly sensitive to oxidative stress.

For skin and anti-ageing, astaxanthin helps protect against photoageing (UV-induced ageing); clinical studies show reduced wrinkles and improved skin elasticity and hydration after 6-12 weeks of supplementation, acting as a complementary “internal sunscreen” alongside, not instead of, topical sun protection. For eye health, astaxanthin crosses the blood-retinal barrier and concentrates in the retina and lens, helping protect photoreceptors from oxidative stress caused by blue light (screens) and UV, complementing lutein and zeaxanthin for full eye protection.

For sports performance and recovery, intense exercise generates significant oxidative stress; astaxanthin helps protect muscle cells and supports the use of fatty acids as fuel (endurance benefit), with several studies in athletes showing reduced fatigue and better recovery.

Take 1 capsule a day (8 mg) with a meal containing some fat — astaxanthin is fat-soluble, and absorption is 3-5 times better with dietary lipids (olive oil, avocado, nuts). A 30-capsule bottle covers a one-month course; a 2-3 month course is recommended. Pairs well with ubiquinol (CoQ10), ergothioneine, omega-3 and collagen.

Not recommended for people allergic to seaweed or seafood. Not recommended for pregnant women without medical advice. A food supplement is not a substitute for a varied, balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle. Do not exceed the recommended daily dose. Keep out of reach of children.

Does astaxanthin protect from the sun?

It helps protect the skin against UV from the inside, but it doesn’t replace sunscreen — it’s a complementary photoprotection support, not a substitute.

How long before I see effects on the skin?

The first effects (radiance, hydration) appear after 4-6 weeks, with anti-wrinkle effects after 8-12 weeks of regular use.

What is the difference between natural and synthetic astaxanthin?

Natural astaxanthin (this product) is extracted from Haematococcus pluvialis microalgae, containing a mix of isomers with natural esters that improve bioavailability, and is the only form used in human clinical studies. Synthetic astaxanthin is chemically produced from petrochemicals, mainly used in aquaculture (farmed salmon feed), with a different isomer mix and lower bioavailability — not recommended for human supplementation. Colour alone isn’t enough to tell them apart; always check the source (Haematococcus pluvialis) and organic certification on the label.

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.