Microingredients Astaxanthin Review

Microingredients Astaxanthin is a premium dietary supplement formulated to harness the potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of astaxanthin, a naturally occurring carotenoid. Sourced from *Haematococcus Pluvialis*, a freshwater microalga renowned for its rich red pigment, this supplement delivers a concentrated form of astaxanthin, often lauded as the "king of antioxidants" due to its exceptional efficacy. Scientific research indicates that astaxanthin can be up to 6,000 times more powerful than Vitamin C in its antioxidant capacity. The product is meticulously designed for optimal bioavailability, with each softgel infused with Medium Chain Triglyceride (MCT) oil. This inclusion significantly enhances the absorption and utilization of astaxanthin within the body, ensuring efficient nutrient delivery without any unpleasant aftertaste. Microingredients offers this supplement in various strengths, including 12mg and 24mg per softgel, catering to diverse wellness needs. The mechanisms by which astaxanthin exerts its beneficial effects are multifaceted and deeply rooted in its unique molecular structure. As a potent antioxidant, it directly neutralizes free radicals—unstable molecules that cause oxidative stress and cellular damage, which are implicated in aging and various chronic diseases. Astaxanthin's distinct molecular configuration allows it to embed within cell membranes, providing comprehensive protection against reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (RONS) more efficiently than many other antioxidants. It scavenges these reactive species by donating electrons and forming non-reactive products, thereby preserving cellular integrity and function. Beyond its direct antioxidant action, astaxanthin exhibits significant anti-inflammatory properties. It modulates redox-sensitive signaling pathways, notably inhibiting the NF-κB and MAPK pathways, which are central to the production of pro-inflammatory molecules such as TNF-α and IL-1β. By down-regulating these pathways, astaxanthin effectively suppresses inflammatory processes and associated tissue damage. Furthermore, it activates the Nrf2 pathway, bolstering the body's endogenous antioxidant defense systems and restoring redox balance. Astaxanthin also plays a crucial role in supporting mitochondrial health, integrating directly into mitochondrial membranes to protect lipids and proteins from oxidative damage, thereby enhancing mitochondrial efficiency and energy production. Its ability to cross the blood-brain barrier offers neuroprotective benefits, safeguarding against oxidative stress in the brain. The supplement is also recognized for its potential to support eye health, improve joint function, enhance internal circulation, and contribute to overall skin health by mitigating UV-induced oxidative damage, improving moisture, and supporting barrier function. Microingredients emphasizes its commitment to quality, stating that its products are non-GMO, gluten-free, and undergo third-party lab testing for purity and potency.

Product Focus: Healthy AgingAlso graded for:Immune Health · T4Eye Health · T4Younger-Looking Skin for Women · T5Also covers:SkinImmune systemMetabolismEyes
Tier ⓘ
Tier 4 · Rank 3
Tier 4 · Emerging. A promising mechanism or animal data, with thin human evidence so far. Rank 3 within Tier 4 for Healthy Aging; 148 of 215 overall. Tiers run from 1, the strongest evidence, to 5. How we grade →
Evidence ⓘ
44 /100
How strongly the evidence says this product works: human studies count most, then real reviews, then our biohacker panel.
Positive Reviews
58% of 2,113
Biohacker Mentions
6 of 10
Cost per month
$3

Study, Trial or Testing Result Summary

Members Only42 human studies · 24 improved
42 human studies24 improved4 no effect3,323 people studied

This product gives 12 mg of astaxanthin a day, which is above the 6 mg dose that worked in studies. No human study has shown that astaxanthin reverses biological age. In one open study of a product that mixed several ingredients, an enzyme linked to cell aging went up, but telomere length did not change. Most of the evidence is about aging markers instead. Twelve placebo-controlled trials in 380 people with type 2 diabetes found less oxidative damage and lower levels of one inflammation marker, but no change in two other inflammation markers [1]. Nine trials found better skin moisture and elasticity, but wrinkles did not get shallower [2]. In 90 women with type 2 diabetes, 8 mg a day for 8 weeks improved antioxidant defenses and lowered inflammation [3]. In 50 women with endometriosis, 6 mg a day for 12 weeks lowered oxidative damage and inflammation compared with placebo [4]. The results are mixed, though. Another pooled analysis found the antioxidant effect unclear when compared with control groups [5]. A one-year trial in 61 kidney transplant patients taking 12 mg a day found no change in oxidative stress or inflammation [6]. Animal and cell studies are never counted.

See all 42 studies →Hide the studies

Review Totals and Summary

Members Only2,113 reviews · 58% positive
2,113 reviews · Iherb 1,921 · Microingredients 119 · Walmart 73
58% positive0% neutral42% negative

Microingredients Astaxanthin has garnered about 2113 ratings across various stores, with 58% of these being 4 or 5 stars. Overall, many customers report positive experiences, particularly regarding skin and energy benefits, though some significant concerns about product quality and packaging have been raised. **Reported Benefits** Many users praise the supplement for its positive effects on skin, eyes, and energy levels. Customers frequently mention improved skin appearance, noting it feels "noticeably less dry" and contributes to a "slight golden glow to my skin." Some even observed it "improves the smoothness of your skin de-aging you," helping with wrinkles and vibrancy. For eye health, some found it "nearly resolved my dry eye issues." Energy boosts are also a common theme, with users reporting they "felt more energy and a boost in my immune system" and that it helps "keep my energy consistent." The product is also valued for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. **Common Complaints** Despite the positive feedback, several customers expressed strong dissatisfaction. A recurring issue is product damage during shipping, with reports of "capsules busted inside the bag and orange stain all over everything." This often leads to a messy and unusable product. The packaging itself, a resealable bag rather than a bottle, is frequently criticized as "packaging is no good" and inconvenient for storage. Some users also reported a lack of effectiveness, with one stating, "His eye sight didn't improve in fact it got worse." Allergic reactions were also mentioned by a few individuals. Additionally, one reviewer questioned the company's transparency and the actual dosage, claiming "capsules are also smaller... definitely not 12 mg." **Pill Characteristics** The softgel capsules are generally well-received for their size and ease of consumption. Many describe them as "small and easy to take" and "very easy to swallow," with no "weird aftertaste." The formulation includes MCT oil, which is highlighted by customers as a beneficial "delivery catalyst" for absorption, often preferred over other oils. Reviewers appreciate that the product is odorless and has no digestive upset. **Value for Money** Customer opinions on value are mixed but lean positive. Many consider it a "Fair price for quality" and "worth every penny." Some reviewers noted it offers "Good Value" and that its "price is very comparable, if not cheaper than other name brands." However, a few customers wished it "WISH IT WERE MORE AFFORDABLE." The dosage and number of capsules per bag are often seen as contributing to its overall value. **Who It Suits and Who It Did Not** This supplement appears to suit individuals seeking improvements in skin hydration, glow, and elasticity, as well as those looking for an energy boost or relief from dry eyes. It is also favored by people who appreciate a clean formulation with MCT oil and prefer small, easy-to-swallow softgels. However, it did not suit those who experienced allergic reactions or saw no improvement in severe conditions like macular degeneration. It is also not ideal for customers who prioritize robust packaging to prevent damage or who are concerned about ingredient transparency.

Biohacker Summary

Members Only6 of 10 recommend it
6 of 10 biohackers on our panel recommend it

Astaxanthin gets broad support from the panel: three of the ten recommend it, four say they use it, two are neutral, and one has stopped taking it. The most common reasons are skin protection, including help against sunburn, along with eye health, antioxidant support, and joint comfort, and a few also mention inflammation and longevity. Two panelists give a dose of 12 milligrams a day, and one says it needs a week or two of preloading to be felt. One suggests taking it with collagen and vitamin C, an hour or so after a workout so it does not blunt the antioxidant effects, while another takes it on flights. As for cautions, one panelist warns that synthetic astaxanthin, the kind used to color farm-raised salmon, lacks credible safety studies, and another says the eye data are still emerging.

See all 10 biohackers →Hide the biohackers
  • Dr. Mark Hyman · Astaxanthin · recommends
    • 9 Oct 2026 · recommends · YouTube ↗
      Mentions astaxanthin as a carotenoid that helps reduce oxidative stress.
    • 7 Oct 2026 · recommends · YouTube ↗
      Mentions astaxanthin as a carotenoid that helps reduce oxidative stress.
    • 14 Jun 2024 · recommends · YouTube ↗
      Astaxanthin, a powerful carotenoid antioxidant, reduces neuroinflammation, scavenges free radicals, activates the Nrf2 anti-inflammatory antioxidant pathway to maintain blood-brain barrier integrity, and suppresses NF-kappa B to reduce inflammatory molecules.
    • 19 Jul 2023 · recommends · YouTube ↗
      States that astaxanthin is a naturally occurring supplement that can help safely address oxidative stress and inflammation at the source, playing a major role in mitigating the effects of inflammation and impacting mitochondrial function and other cell signaling pathways related to aging.
    • 19 Jul 2023 · neutral · Podcast ↗
      Is excited to talk about astaxanthin and how it helps to combat some of the key hallmarks of aging, including inflammaging, mitochondrial dysfunction, and cell signaling.
    • Date not recorded · recommends · Website ↗
      Dr. Hyman recommends AX3 Bio-Pure Astaxanthin.
  • Siim Land · Astaxanthin · neutral
    • 6 Sep 2026 · neutral · X ↗
      Notes that Astaxanthin is one of several supplements with human evidence.
    • 30 Aug 2026 · neutral · X ↗
      Astaxanthin is a carotenoid found in salmon and algae that can protect the skin against UV damage. Two systematic reviews of clinical trials have shown that astaxanthin supplementation improves skin elasticity, skin moisture, and photoaging.
    • 1 Jul 2026 · uses · YouTube ↗
      Takes 12 milligrams of astaxanthin a day.
    • 22 Jun 2026 · recommends · YouTube ↗
      Recommends astaxanthin as an underrated carotenoid and powerful antioxidant for skin anti-aging, UV protection, eye health, inflammation, and lipids, citing studies that show improvements in skin moisturization and elasticity, reduced digital eye strain, and improvements in cardiovascular disease risk factors like hs-CRP and HDL.
    • 12 Jun 2026 · recommends · YouTube ↗
      States that astaxanthin is a powerful antioxidant and carotenoid that protects the skin against UV radiation, which is the number one cause of skin photoaging.
    • 9 May 2026 · recommends · YouTube ↗
      Recommends astaxanthin as an antioxidant for skin health, highlighting its stronger antioxidant potential (60 to 6,000 times stronger than vitamin C) and good absorption through the skin due to being fat-soluble.
    • 4 May 2026 · uses · YouTube ↗
      States that he is personally not stopping to take astaxanthin because there are other benefits he is interested in, such as protecting the skin against UV radiation, protecting the eyes, and improving traditional health biomarkers like CRP and cholesterol.
    • 25 Apr 2026 · uses · TikTok ↗
      Discusses astaxanthin's longevity effects, noting that recent studies show no effects on mouse lifespan unless given in very large doses to male mice, but that it has other benefits from human trials.
    • 25 Apr 2026 · recommends · Instagram ↗
      States that Astaxanthin can protect the skin against UV damage and postpone photoaging.
    • 12 Apr 2026 · recommends · Instagram ↗
      States that astaxanthin has other benefits from human trials, including skin UV protection, skin elasticity, lower inflammation, lower lipids, and eye protection, and that the new study on life extension effects does not change their opinion on its worth.
  • Ben Greenfield · Astaxanthin · uses
    • 3 Sep 2026 · uses · YouTube ↗
      States that Astaxanthin has been beaten out in terms of numbers for anti-aging efficacy, but they still love it and couldn't live without it.
    • 20 Dec 2025 · uses · YouTube ↗
      Takes astaxanthin for her skin.
    • 28 Nov 2024 · neutral · YouTube ↗
      Ben Greenfield recalls Dr. Kaufmann saying astaxanthin might be the top-ranked supplement for longevity.
    • 7 Nov 2024 · uses · YouTube ↗
      Dr. Kaufmann still loves astaxanthin and couldn't live without it, despite other supplements having higher efficacy numbers in her ranking system.
    • 17 Aug 2024 · uses · YouTube ↗
      Uses astaxanthin on flights as an antioxidant.
    • 27 Jun 2024 · uses · YouTube ↗
      Mentions that Keon uses astaxanthin to stabilize the oil in their omega softgel capsules.
    • 25 May 2024 · uses · YouTube ↗
      Says that his concoction included 2 milligrams of microencapsulated astaxanthin, which is microencapsulated to ensure bioavailability in the small intestine.
    • 13 Sep 2023 · neutral · YouTube ↗
      Mentions that natural astaxanthin is captured in their fish oil product, along with active vitamin A and D, and various other oils.
    • 20 Jul 2023 · neutral · Podcast ↗
      Mentions Astaxanthin as a stalwart in the longevity and age-reversal space.
    • 24 Jun 2023 · uses · YouTube ↗
      Uses astaxanthin, described as an edible sunscreen with good antioxidative effects for the skin, as part of the Gut to Glow supplement when traveling.
  • Thomas DeLauer · Astaxanthin · recommends
    • 25 Jun 2026 · recommends · YouTube ↗
      Believes Astaxanthin is probably one of the only simple over-the-counter supplements that has made a dent in how their joints feel, and notes that it needs to be preloaded for a week or two.
    • 13 Jun 2026 · neutral · YouTube ↗
      Believes astaxanthin is super underrated, noting that people take it as an internal sunscreen because it reduces oxidative stress at the skin level, darkens the skin, and significantly prevents sunburn.
    • 11 Jun 2026 · recommends · YouTube ↗
      Recommends taking astaxanthin with collagen and vitamin C for a compounded effect, noting it's great for the skin and should be taken an hour or so after a workout to avoid blunting antioxidant effects.
    • 19 Jul 2025 · recommends · YouTube ↗
      Recommends taking astaxanthin, a carotenoid that protects the skin and has antioxidant effects similar to those from the sun, and may help prevent sunburn.
    • 16 May 2024 · recommends · YouTube ↗
      Recommends Astaxanthin as a very good antioxidant for those following a ketogenic protocol, noting it has tremendously helped with joint stiffness for him.
    • 12 May 2024 · neutral · YouTube ↗
      Explains that astaxanthin is what makes salmon pink and acts as an antioxidant, protecting the fatty acids in the fish from going rancid.
    • 29 Oct 2023 · neutral · YouTube ↗
      Discusses astaxanthin as a supplement that shows interesting preliminary evidence for brain health, noting its affordability and availability.
    • 4 Oct 2023 · recommends · YouTube ↗
      Recommends taking astaxanthin, an antioxidant found in capsule form, sockeye salmon, and krill oil, to restore skin antioxidants, protect from sun exposure, and potentially help with insulin resistance, suggesting a dose of 6 to 12 milligrams.
    • 16 Jul 2023 · uses · YouTube ↗
      Personally adds astaxanthin when exposed to a lot of sun or engaging in significant endurance work, such as increasing running mileage, for its powerful antioxidant properties that aid aerobic exercise and its skin-protecting qualities as an internal sunscreen.
    • 28 Dec 2022 · recommends · YouTube ↗
      Highlights research indicating astaxanthin improves antioxidant capabilities in red blood cells and may negate brain aging effects in rats by restoring BDNF and glutathione, recommending 8 to 12 milligrams per day.
  • Dave Asprey · Astaxanthin · uses
    • 16 Jun 2026 · uses · YouTube ↗
      Dave Asprey states that he takes astaxanthin to help prevent sunburn.
    • 16 Dec 2025 · recommends · YouTube ↗
      States that astaxanthin has great data for both men and women regarding fertility and the future health of a baby, and that he personally takes 12 milligrams every day.
    • 15 Mar 2025 · uses · YouTube ↗
      Takes astaxanthin to support his eyes.
    • 21 Jan 2025 · recommends · YouTube ↗
      Recommends Astaxanthin as a fat-soluble free radical scavenger that gets through the blood-brain barrier.
    • 27 Sep 2024 · uses · YouTube ↗
      Takes astaxanthin, which contributes to his ability to spend eight hours in the sun without getting sunburned.
    • 29 Aug 2024 · recommends · YouTube ↗
      States there are good arguments for having large amounts of astaxanthin for vision.
    • 3 Aug 2024 · recommends · YouTube ↗
      Recommends supplements like lutein and astaxanthin, which are scientifically shown to improve eye resilience and ability to see.
    • 24 May 2024 · uses · YouTube ↗
      Dave takes about 12 to 16 milligrams of Astaxanthin a day and likes to get more sources of it in his supplements.
    • 31 Aug 2023 · uses · YouTube ↗
      Takes astaxanthin for eyesight and used to give his dog formula to astaxanthin for mitochondrial function.
    • 6 May 2022 · uses · YouTube ↗
      Takes an enormous amount of astaxanthin daily, around 20 milligrams a day with a fatty substance, because it acts as an internal sunscreen, is eye protective, and can supercharge mitochondria by conducting electrons in the mitochondrial membrane.
  • Dr. Eric Berg · Astaxanthin · recommends
    • 24 Aug 2025 · recommends · YouTube ↗
      Recommends astaxanthin, found in salmon, shrimp, lobster, and certain algae, as a potent antioxidant that can increase the expression of the FOX3 longevity gene.
    • 29 Aug 2023 · neutral · YouTube ↗
      Identifies astaxanthin as the pink pigment in wild caught salmon, describing it as a powerful antioxidant that helps protect neurons from damage caused by omega-6 fatty acids, refined carbohydrates, and sugars.
    • 20 May 2022 · warns · YouTube ↗
      Warns that synthetic astaxanthin, used to color farm-raised salmon, has no credible safety studies and, like other synthetic antioxidants, could increase the risk of cancer.
    • 28 Sep 2020 · neutral · YouTube ↗
      Describes astaxanthin as one of the most powerful antioxidants, noting its anti-diabetic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer properties.
    • 19 Mar 2018 · neutral · YouTube ↗
      Mentions that krill oil contains astaxanthin, which not only has health benefits but also preserves the oil, preventing it from turning rancid like fish oil.
    • 14 Oct 2017 · recommends · YouTube ↗
      Explains that astaxanthin is a powerful fat-soluble carotenoid, 20 times more powerful than beta carotene, 100 times more powerful than alpha tocopherol, and 1000 times more powerful than vitamin C. He recommends consuming it with fats like coconut oil, olive oil, or avocado, and notes it helps with liver detoxification and prevents chronic degeneration in the eyes, brain, heart, and skin.
  • Peter Attia · Astaxanthin · stopped
    • 20 Jul 2025 · stopped · YouTube ↗
      Has tried astaxanthin in the past as part of his personal longevity regimen.
    • 9 Dec 2023 · neutral · YouTube ↗
      Discusses Astaxanthin, noting it's available over the counter and alleged to have various health benefits, though he cannot assess the strength of the evidence. He mentions it's used to turn farm-grown salmon pink.
    • 4 Dec 2023 · recommends · YouTube ↗
      States that astaxanthin, an over-the-counter food dye, also showed a significant lifespan-extending effect in male mice, but not in females, in a recently submitted paper.
  • Andrew Huberman · Astaxanthin · recommends
    • 24 Apr 2025 · recommends · Podcast ↗
      Discusses astaxanthin as a supplement for maintaining long-term eye health.
    • 24 Apr 2025 · neutral · YouTube ↗
      Describes astaxanthin as an interesting compound that seems to increase ocular blood flow and has also been shown to have positive effects on skin elasticity, moisture, and quality.
    • 27 Apr 2023 · warns · YouTube ↗
      Discusses astaxanthin as a compound that, along with lutein and zeaxanthin, is being explored for its potential to help with age-related macular degeneration, though he notes that the data are still emerging.
    • 2 May 2022 · neutral · YouTube ↗
      Mentions that astaxanthin is a carotenoid found in krill and crustaceans that gives them their red pigment, and that farm-raised salmon are given astaxanthin.
    • 14 Jun 2021 · neutral · Podcast ↗
      Mentions Astaxanthin as a compound that may assist in supporting visual health and possibly improve vision.
    • 14 Jun 2021 · neutral · YouTube ↗
      Notes that several studies have shown Astaxanthin has a notable effect on fertility in males, seeming to at least double the pregnancy rate when men take it, particularly in previously infertile men.
    • Date not recorded · neutral · Website ↗
      Huberman explains that Astaxanthin, a red-pink pigment found in seafood, is structurally similar to beta-carotene and has been shown to offset age-related vision disruption, notably increase ocular blood flow, improve male fertility in previously infertile men, and positively affect skin elasticity and moisture.
    • Date not recorded · neutral · Website ↗
      Notes that astaxanthin is used as a supplement and in prescription form to try and rescue some age-related vision loss.
    • Date not recorded · neutral · Website ↗
      Notes that supplementing with astaxanthin can be beneficial for slowing the progression of age-related macular degeneration, though the degree of offset is slight but robust. He personally is not taking astaxanthin at this time.
  • Bryan Johnson · Astaxanthin · uses
    • 27 Jul 2023 · uses · YouTube ↗
      Mentions astaxanthin as an ingredient in his 'bag of goodies', indicating he uses it.
  • Dr. Rhonda Patrick · Astaxanthin · neutral
    • 31 Aug 2018 · neutral · YouTube ↗
      Dr. Rhonda Patrick mentions that astaxanthin has been shown in animal studies to activate the longevity gene foxo3 and in human studies to decrease markers of oxidative stress and improve blood lipid markers.
    • 29 Sep 2014 · recommends · YouTube ↗
      Dr. Patrick explains that astaxanthin is a potent antioxidant that protects DHA and other polyunsaturated fatty acids from oxidation, and has been shown in clinical trials to lower inflammation, decrease DNA damage, and increase HDL, all of which are relevant to degenerative diseases.
    • Date not recorded · neutral · Website ↗
      Mentions astaxanthin as a potential longevity vitamin, a marine carotenoid found in salmon and krill.
    • Date not recorded · neutral · Website ↗
      Dr. Rhonda Patrick mentions that salmon roe is high in astaxanthin, an antioxidant shown in animal studies to activate the longevity gene FoxO3, and in human studies to decrease markers of oxidative stress and improve blood lipid markers.
    • Date not recorded · neutral · Website ↗
      Dr. Rhonda Patrick explains that astaxanthin is a carotenoid unique to krill oil that acts as a potent antioxidant, protecting DHA and other polyunsaturated fatty acids from oxidation, and has benefits such as lowering inflammation, decreasing DNA damage, and increasing HDL.

RAL Summary

Members OnlyTier 4 for Healthy Aging

Studies at a full dose show astaxanthin lowers oxidative damage and inflammation and helps skin moisture [1][2], but none show it reverses aging. Only 58% of reviews are positive, so the studies and the buyers disagree.

  • Emerging: not enough evidence to rank higher yet.

Where the evidence disagrees: 4 of the 42 human studies found no effect.

More Details

Members OnlyBody systems · Combine with · Possible side effects

Body systems: Skin, Immune system, Metabolic system, Eyes

Combine with: To enhance the anti-aging and cellular repair benefits of Astaxanthin, consider combining it with supplements that support mitochondrial function, DNA repair, and overall cellular health. NMN or NR (Nicotinamide Riboside) can boost NAD+ levels, crucial for cellular energy and DNA repair. Resveratrol, another potent antioxidant, works synergistically to activate sirtuins, which are linked to longevity. CoQ10 is vital for mitochondrial energy production and acts as an antioxidant. Additionally, Omega-3 fatty acids can reduce inflammation and support cell membrane integrity, while Vitamin C and E provide a broader spectrum of antioxidant protection.

Possible side effects: The studies listed report no major side effects. A few reviewers mentioned allergic reactions.

Supplement Facts

Astaxanthin 12 mg
Supplement Facts
Serving Size 1 Softgel
Servings Per Container 120
Amount Per Serving% Daily Value
Astaxanthin (from Haematococcus pluvialis microalgae)12 mg†
† Daily Value not established.

Directions: As a dietary supplement, adults take 1 softgel daily. For best results, please consult your physician.

Barcode (UPC) 850069023416 · Label source: iHerb · Report a label change

Show entire label
The Micro Ingredients Astaxanthin 12mg softgels, tanning pills, Strength Carotenoids Skin Supplement w. 100% label, 45 Softgels
Astaxanthin 12mg softgels, tanning pills, Strength Carotenoids Skin Supplement w. 100%, 45 Softgels
The Microingredients Astaxanthin label
Astaxanthin

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Graded October 23, 2026 by the Reverse Age Lab evidence engine, from human studies, real reviews and our biohacker panel. How we grade. Is this medical advice? No. Rala organizes the published evidence; go over any change with your doctor, especially if you take meds.