The studied one
Algae-derived astaxanthin in an oil softgel
Made from algae, the source used in most human studies. Oil helps your body absorb it.
Good for: Skin · Everyday use
What variations of astaxanthin exist?
A red-orange pigment made by algae. It gives salmon and shrimp their color and is a strong antioxidant, studied mainly for skin, eyes, and exercise recovery. It comes in 3 forms, and they aren't all the same. Here's how they differ.
Medical Disclaimer
For education only. What's right for you depends on your health and your medications, so check with your provider before you start or switch. Book a consult
Our top pick
Every form, in plain words
The studied one
Algae-derived astaxanthin in an oil softgel
Made from algae, the source used in most human studies. Oil helps your body absorb it.
Good for: Skin · Everyday use
The small-dose one
Astaxanthin from krill oil
Krill oil has some astaxanthin, but usually far less than a dedicated supplement.
Usually skip
- The fish-feed one (Synthetic astaxanthin)Made mainly for fish farms. A slightly different mix, and less studied in people.
Spotting a good one on the shelf
Look for
- Look for 'Algae-derived astaxanthin in an oil softgel' on the label (the studied one)
Watch out for
- The label doesn't say where it comes from
- Dry tablets with no oil to help absorption
Check with your provider first if…
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding (not well studied)
- You take a blood thinner or blood pressure medicine (not well studied together)
- You're allergic to algae, or to shellfish if it comes from krill
- Reddish stools can happen at higher amounts
Ready to find the root cause?
Dr. Lesher is a Naturopathic Doctor who focuses on autoimmune and chronic conditions in women. Since 2020, she's helped hundreds of patients stop managing symptoms and start healing.