Astaxanthin - the Diamond of Antioxidants in the Fight Against Light-induced Oxidative Stress

The skin, as the largest organ of the body, plays an important role for our health. As a protective shield, it is constantly exposed to external environmental influences and stress. In order to maintain and support this protective barrier, numerous active ingredients are used in cosmetics. A major group of these are antioxidants, which can neutralize stress factors in the skin. Astaxanthin, which is the strongest natural antioxidant belonging to the carotenoid family, does this particularly well due to its special molecular structure. Due to its unique structure of hydrophilic and lipophilic components, it can act more effectively in the lipid bilayers of the skin than most other antioxidants. Especially in the field of light-induced oxidative stress, triggered by UV radiation and infrared as well as blue light, in vitro and in vivo studies with the active ingredient AstaCos® OL50 from BDI-BioLife Science have shown that astaxanthin has a strong protective effect. Numerous research studies conclude that astaxanthin can also improve overall skin health, and provide comprehensive protection against oxidative stress. Possible uses range from anti-aging products to formulations that combat the effects of UV exposure and light, to an active ingredient in sunscreen products and face creams.