Astaxanthin

Natural, non-GMO, vegan-sourced (not from krill)

A red carotenoid produced by a freshwater microalgae when it's stressed by sunlight — the same pigment that turns flamingos and salmon pink.

Dose per gummy

30 mg

Haematococcus pluvialis microalgae

Why it's in Glowbite

What it does
for you.

i.Supports skin moisture and elasticity in placebo-controlled trials on adults*
ii.May help reduce the appearance of UV-triggered redness*
iii.One of the most studied dietary carotenoids for skin-related endpoints*
iv.Vegan-sourced from microalgae — not from krill or salmon

* These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA.

Mechanism

How it actually
works.

Astaxanthin is a lipophilic carotenoid that inserts into cell membranes where it helps quench singlet-oxygen and peroxyl radicals. Its unique molecular structure lets it span the phospholipid bilayer, giving it activity at both the inner and outer membrane surfaces. Research suggests this supports the skin's antioxidant defense system during everyday UV and blue-light exposure.*

Why this dose

The dose
rationale.

Published trials showing skin endpoints have used 4–12 mg/day. Glowbite delivers 30 mg because that matches what the formulator targeted for high-exposure users who want a noticeable effect window. Starting with Option B (1 gummy/day) keeps you at 30 mg; Option A (2/day in month 1) briefly doubles that, which remains below the highest doses evaluated in the literature. Talk to your doctor if you're unsure.

Representative studies

The
receipts.

Cosmetic benefits of astaxanthin on humans subjects

Tominaga K. et al. · Acta Biochimica Polonica · 2012

12-week open-label trial reported improvements in crow's-feet wrinkles, elasticity, and moisture content at 6 mg/day oral astaxanthin combined with 2 mL topical application.

Astaxanthin protects against skin deterioration in a 10-week randomized controlled trial

Ito N. et al. · Nutrients · 2018

Double-blind trial in healthy adults suggested oral astaxanthin (6 mg/day) helped maintain skin moisture levels versus placebo through the dry season.

A randomized placebo-controlled clinical study on the safety and protective effect of astaxanthin supplementation on UV-induced skin deterioration

Ito N., Seki S., Ueda F. · Nutrients · 2018

Astaxanthin-supplemented group showed less UVB-induced change in skin moisture loss and texture parameters after controlled exposure.

Interactions & cautions

Who should check with
a doctor first.

Astaxanthin is generally well tolerated. It may theoretically interact with blood-pressure and 5α-reductase medications; speak to your prescriber if either applies. Not intended for children under 18.

See the full safety page for contraindications across all seven actives.

Pairs with