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Astaxanthin 12 mg

Dr. Mercola
4.8
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
(855 ratings)
Astaxanthin 12 mg
Product Image
Score80
A well-sized 12 mg astaxanthin serving offers focused antioxidant support, while missing carrier and stability details are the main quality gaps.
How scoring works
Quantity:90 Capsule(s) • (90 servings)
Goals:
Vision Support
Anti-Aging
Skin Health
Anti-Inflammatory Support
Cardiovascular Support
Cognitive Support

Score 80

A well-sized 12 mg astaxanthin serving offers focused antioxidant support, while missing carrier and stability details are the main quality gaps.
How scoring works

Also available as

3 options
4.00mg • 90 Capsule(s) servings Astaxanthin 4 mg • 90 Capsule(s) • 90 servings $43.99 ($0.48 per serving) 4.00mg • 30 servings Astaxanthin 4 mg • 30 Capsule(s) • 30 servings $14.99 ($0.49 per serving) 30 servings Astaxanthin 12 mg • 30 Capsule(s) • 30 servings $39.97 ($1.33 per serving)
$94.97($1.05 per serving)
iHerb
$ 104.47
Amazon
$ 94.97
Vitacost
$ 104.99
Report prices

Analysis

The 12 mg serving sits within a commonly used supplemental range and supports antioxidant pathways relevant to skin, eye, cardiovascular, and exercise-recovery goals. Natural Haematococcus pluvialis extract makes the ingredient identity easier to assess than an unspecified carotenoid blend.

The capsule lacks a stated fat carrier. Astaxanthin is fat soluble, so delivery details matter, yet the supplied data do not identify the carrier oil, stabilizer system, or light-protective packaging.

The larger supply improves convenience but remains expensive per serving. Adults who want a long supply from this specific brand The formula remains a single antioxidant, so it does not provide the broader carotenoid or nutrient coverage of an eye-specific blend.

Who is it for
  • Adults seeking focused astaxanthin support
  • People who prefer a single active carotenoid
  • Adults who want a long supply from this specific brand
Best for
  • Daily antioxidant support
  • Skin and eye carotenoid routines
  • Users avoiding complex blends

Pros

  • Clearly stated 12 mg amount
  • Natural Haematococcus pluvialis extract
  • Focused one-active formula

Cons

  • Carrier oil is not identified
  • Oxidation-protection details are absent
  • Comparable softgels provide clearer delivery at lower cost.

Nutrient quality

94 Highest impact

Haematococcus pluvialis provides strong natural-source identity, though no organic or branded standard is stated; the amount is substantial and well aligned with supplemental use. The astaxanthin amount is within a commonly used supplemental range; astaxanthin directly fits the antioxidant, eye, skin, and cardiovascular purposes listed; the focused formula contains no low-value active additions.

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Ingredient transparency

78 High impact

Listed actives generally have specific amounts; no proprietary blend hides key doses except where noted. The algal source is specific, but carrier oil and oxidation safeguards are not described; serving directions and inactive ingredients are not supplied.

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Customer satisfaction

73 High impact

The supplied aggregate average is favorable, though no individual feedback is available; the large rating sample improves confidence in the aggregate average, but no individual feedback is supplied. Detailed feedback is absent, so repeated complaints cannot be assessed; real-world fit with the intended purpose remains uncertain.

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Value for money

73 High impact

Natural sourcing and strong dosing partly support the price; the serving remains costly for a single active. The focused formula contains no low-value active additions; several comparable high-dose products offer better value.

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Report analysis

Goals

Vision Support
Vision Support
Impact
Highest effect
A- Goal FitA+ Strength of SupportC CoverageA+ Formula Quality
Astaxanthin · 12 mg

Astaxanthin directly supports retinal antioxidant defense and may ease visual fatigue associated with prolonged screen use. It remains a focused carotenoid rather than a replacement for macular pigments, retinal lipids, or AREDS2 nutrients.

The algae-derived amount is substantial and clearly identified. The streamlined formula delivers strong depth without hidden blends or unrelated additions.

Study evidence
Astaxanthin Mixed 7 studies
Anti-Aging
Anti-Aging
Impact
Highest effect
B Goal FitA+ Strength of SupportB- CoverageA+ Formula Quality
Astaxanthin · 12 mg

Astaxanthin provides targeted antioxidant support for skin, eye, and neural tissues that face age-related oxidative stress. Human trials support selected skin, visual, and oxidative-stress markers, though direct healthspan evidence is limited.

The 12 mg amount is substantial and the Haematococcus pluvialis source is clearly identified. The focused formula offers strong depth in one protective pathway without unnecessary ingredients.

Study evidence
Astaxanthin Supportive 4 studies
Skin Health
Skin Health
Impact
Highest effect
A- Goal FitA- Strength of SupportC+ CoverageA Formula Quality
Astaxanthin · 12 mg

Vitamin C directly supports collagen synthesis and antioxidant defense in skin. Vitamin C has established human and mechanistic evidence for collagen formation and antioxidant protection.

The clearly disclosed 1,000 mg vitamin C amount provides more than enough collagen-synthesis cofactor for most users. Vitamin C covers collagen synthesis and antioxidant defense but not direct hydration or barrier-lipid support.

Anti-Inflammatory Support
Anti-Inflammatory Support
Impact
Highest effect
B+ Goal FitA+ Strength of SupportC- CoverageA+ Formula Quality
Astaxanthin · 12 mg

Astaxanthin directly supports antioxidant and inflammatory-balance pathways, giving the formula clear relevance to the selected goal. The 12 mg amount sits within a strong clinical range and uses a named natural algal source.

The single-active design provides depth in oxidative-stress control rather than broad coverage of inflammatory enzymes or immune nutrients. No enhanced lipid delivery or oxidation-protection detail is provided, which leaves practical absorption and stability less certain.

Study evidence
Astaxanthin Supportive 18 studies
Cardiovascular Support
Cardiovascular Support
Impact
High effect
C+ Goal FitA Strength of SupportD+ CoverageA Formula Quality
Astaxanthin · 12 mg

Astaxanthin provides antioxidant and endothelial support with a plausible cardiovascular role. Human evidence is promising but less established than evidence for omega-3s, magnesium, or CoQ10.

The 12 mg amount is meaningful and the Haematococcus pluvialis source is clearly identified. The dry capsule has no stated carrier oil, which may limit absorption of this fat-soluble carotenoid.

Study evidence
Astaxanthin Supportive 12 studies
Cognitive Support
Cognitive Support
Impact
High effect
D- Goal FitA- Strength of SupportD CoverageA+ Formula Quality
Astaxanthin · 12 mg

Astaxanthin offers a plausible neuroprotective antioxidant mechanism and can reach tissues beyond the digestive tract. Direct evidence for noticeable improvements in memory, attention, or processing speed remains limited.

The algae-derived amount is substantial and clearly disclosed in a simple capsule. It is better viewed as targeted antioxidant support than a comprehensive cognitive formula.

Study evidence
Astaxanthin Mixed 6 studies

Ingredients

IngredientAmount per serving
Astaxanthin (Haematococcus pluvialis extract)
 12 mg
Adults 18–50
Report overview
Astaxanthin (Haematococcus pluvialis extract) · 12 mg OverallScore74
C Active Ingredient Quality & BioavailabilityB+ Dose, Safety & Label TransparencyB+ Value

A clearly identified natural algal source supports ingredient quality. The clearly stated active amount lies within the main clinical range. Cost efficiency is fair for the active amount provided.

View ingredientView products
Loading alternative details
88 Performance

Vegan Hawaiian Astaxanthin 12 mg

BioAstin
<p>A substantial amount from a recognized algal source in a vegan fat-containing softgel supports quality and absorption. Compared with Astaxanthin 12 mg, the stronger ingredient assessment offers a clearer combination of astaxanthin source, dose, and delivery.</p>
88 Performance

Astaxanthin 10 mg

Lake Avenue Nutrition
<p>Natural algal astaxanthin provides a meaningful amount in a focused softgel formula. Compared with Astaxanthin 12 mg, the stronger ingredient assessment offers a clearer combination of astaxanthin source, dose, and delivery.</p>
87 Performance

Extra Strength Astaxanthin 10 mg

NOW
<p>A clinically relevant amount from a well-regarded algal source supports a focused antioxidant formula. Compared with Astaxanthin 12 mg, the stronger ingredient assessment offers a clearer combination of astaxanthin source, dose, and delivery.</p>
88 Budget

Vegan Hawaiian Astaxanthin 12 mg

BioAstin
<p>A substantial amount from a recognized algal source in a vegan fat-containing softgel supports quality and absorption. Compared with Astaxanthin 12 mg, the lower serving cost improves value while keeping astaxanthin as the central active.</p>
87 Budget

Astaxanthin 12 mg

California Gold Nutrition
<p>Natural algal astaxanthin provides a meaningful amount in a focused softgel formula. Compared with Astaxanthin 12 mg, the lower serving cost improves value while keeping astaxanthin as the central active.</p>
86 Budget

Astaxanthin 12 mg

SR Sports Research
<p>Branded natural astaxanthin in a softgel provides a strong source, dose, and delivery combination. Compared with Astaxanthin 12 mg, the lower serving cost improves value while keeping astaxanthin as the central active.</p>
86 Value

Astaxanthin 4 mg

NOW
<p>A lower but still useful amount from a well-regarded algal source supports straightforward antioxidant use. Compared with Astaxanthin 12 mg, it maintains similar formulation quality at a lower recurring cost.</p>
83 Value

Astaxanthin Plus 4 mg

Natural Factors
<p>The natural carotenoid combination is coherent and provides a useful entry-level astaxanthin amount. Compared with Astaxanthin 12 mg, it maintains similar formulation quality at a lower recurring cost.</p>
86 Value

Astaxanthin with AstaReal 6 mg

Doctor's Best
<p>AstaReal supplies a well-characterized natural astaxanthin source at a useful midrange amount. Compared with Astaxanthin 12 mg, it maintains similar formulation quality at a lower recurring cost.</p>
Report alternatives

Sources

Published studies used for the product analysis and the top-ranked studies for each ingredient and goal.

  1. Lipid profile and glucose changes after supplementation with astaxanthin: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.
    Ursoniu S; Sahebkar A; Serban MC; Banach M · Archives of medical science : AMS · 2015
    Meta-analysis280 participants7 studies pooledCardiovascular Support forAstaxanthin
  2. Astaxanthin (AstaReal®) Improved Acute and Chronic Digital Eye Strain in Children: A Randomized Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Trial.
    Hecht KA; Marwah M; Wood V; Nishida Y; Bach AE; Gerson J; Hom MM; Schnackenberg J; Raote S; Srivastava S; Negi P; Caston E · Advances in therapy · 2025
    Randomized trial64 participantsVision Support forAstaxanthin
  3. Effectiveness of dietary supplements for skin photoaging in healthy adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.
    Yang Q; Li H; Zhang H; Ma L; Zhang X; Wu J · Frontiers in medicine · 2025
    Meta-analysis40 studies pooledSkin Health forAstaxanthin
  4. Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis on the Effects of Astaxanthin on Human Skin Ageing.
    Zhou X; Cao Q; Orfila C; Zhao J; Zhang L · Nutrients · 2021
    Meta-analysis11 studies pooledSkin Health Anti-Aging forAstaxanthin
  5. Sports and Kinetic Visual Acuity.
    Sawaki K; Kohmura Y; Aoki K; Nakamura M; Murakami S; Suzuki Y · Juntendo Iji zasshi = Juntendo medical journal · 2024
    Narrative reviewVision Support forAstaxanthin
  6. Astaxanthin, a natural antioxidant, lowers cholesterol and markers of cardiovascular risk in individuals with prediabetes and dyslipidaemia.
    Ciaraldi TP; Boeder SC; Mudaliar SR; Giovannetti ER; Henry RR; Pettus JH · Diabetes, obesity & metabolism · 2023
    Randomized trial34 participantsCardiovascular Support forAstaxanthin
  7. The Protective Role of Astaxanthin for UV-Induced Skin Deterioration in Healthy People-A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial.
    Ito N; Seki S; Ueda F · Nutrients · 2018
    Randomized trial23 participantsSkin Health forAstaxanthin
  8. Effects of diet containing astaxanthin on visual function in healthy individuals: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel study.
    Sekikawa T; Kizawa Y; Li Y; Miura N · Journal of clinical biochemistry and nutrition · 2023
    Randomized trial60 participantsVision Support forAstaxanthin
  9. Effects of Astaxanthin supplementation on selected metabolic parameters, anthropometric indices, Sirtuin1 and TNF-α levels in patients with coronary artery disease: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial.
    Heidari M; Chaboksafar M; Alizadeh M; Sohrabi B; Kheirouri S · Frontiers in nutrition · 2023
    Randomized trial50 participantsCardiovascular Support forAstaxanthin
  10. Antioxidant Lipid Supplement on Cardiovascular Risk Factors: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.
    Wan S; Wu W; Zhang Y; He J; Wang X; An P; Luo J; Zhu Y; Luo Y · Nutrients · 2024
    Meta-analysisCardiovascular Support forAstaxanthin
  11. Supplementating with dietary astaxanthin combined with collagen hydrolysate improves facial elasticity and decreases matrix metalloproteinase-1 and -12 expression: a comparative study with placebo.
    Yoon HS; Cho HH; Cho S; Lee SR; Shin MH; Chung JH · Journal of medicinal food · 2015
    Randomized trial44 participantsSkin Health forAstaxanthin
  12. Benefits and Safety of Astaxanthin in the Treatment of Mild-To-Moderate Dry Eye Disease.
    Tian L; Wen Y; Li S; Zhang P; Wang Y; Wang J; Cao K; Du L; Wang N; Jie Y · Frontiers in nutrition · 2022
    Single-arm trial60 participantsVision Support forAstaxanthin
  13. Administration of natural astaxanthin increases serum HDL-cholesterol and adiponectin in subjects with mild hyperlipidemia.
    Yoshida H; Yanai H; Ito K; Tomono Y; Koikeda T; Tsukahara H; Tada N · Atherosclerosis · 2010
    Randomized trial61 participantsCardiovascular Support forAstaxanthin
  14. Continuous astaxanthin intake reduces oxidative stress and reverses age-related morphological changes of residual skin surface components in middle-aged volunteers.
    Chalyk NE; Klochkov VA; Bandaletova TY; Kyle NH; Petyaev IM · Nutrition research (New York, N.Y.) · 2018
    Single-arm trial31 participantsSkin Health forAstaxanthin
  15. Nutritional Supplementation for Myopia Prevention and Control: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials.
    Martinez-Perez C; Oliveira AP · Nutrients · 2026
    Systematic review9 studies pooledVision Support forAstaxanthin
  16. Effects of Astaxanthin Supplementation on Glycemic Control and Lipid Profile in Patients With Prediabetes and Type 2 Diabetes: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.
    Molani-Gol R; Bohlouli Sardroudi S; Rafraf M · Nutrition and metabolic insights · 2026
    Meta-analysis403 participants9 studies pooledCardiovascular Support forAstaxanthin
  17. The effectiveness of a standardized rose hip powder, containing seeds and shells of Rosa canina, on cell longevity, skin wrinkles, moisture, and elasticity.
    Phetcharat L; Wongsuphasawat K; Winther K · Clinical interventions in aging · 2016
    Randomized trial34 participantsSkin Health Anti-Aging forAstaxanthin
  18. Astaxanthin, cell membrane nutrient with diverse clinical benefits and anti-aging potential.
    Kidd P · Alternative medicine review : a journal of clinical therapeutic · 2012
    Narrative reviewVision Support Anti-Aging forAstaxanthin
  19. Astaxanthin Supplemented with High-Intensity Functional Training Decreases Adipokines Levels and Cardiovascular Risk Factors in Men with Obesity.
    Saeidi A; Nouri-Habashi A; Razi O; Ataeinosrat A; Rahmani H; Mollabashi SS; Bagherzadeh-Rahmani B; Aghdam SM; Khalajzadeh L; Al Kiyumi MH; Hackney AC; Laher I; Heinrich KM; Zouhal H · Nutrients · 2023
    Randomized trial68 participantsCardiovascular Support forAstaxanthin
  20. Cosmetic benefits of astaxanthin on humans subjects.
    Tominaga K; Hongo N; Karato M; Yamashita E · Acta biochimica Polonica · 2012
    Other66 participantsSkin Health forAstaxanthin
  21. The effect of astaxanthin supplementation on inflammatory markers, lipid profile, and anthropometric indices in patients with heart failure: a randomized controlled trial.
    Ghotboddin Mohammadi S; Shafie D; Feizi A; Ahmadi AR; Bagherniya M; Kafeshani M · Scientific reports · 2026
    Randomized trial80 participantsCardiovascular Support forAstaxanthin
  22. The Xanthophyll Carotenoid Astaxanthin has Distinct Biological Effects to Prevent the Photoaging of the Skin Even by its Postirradiation Treatment.
    Imokawa G · Photochemistry and photobiology · 2019
    Narrative reviewSkin Health forAstaxanthin
  23. Protective effects of astaxanthin on skin: Recent scientific evidence, possible mechanisms, and potential indications.
    Singh KN; Patil S; Barkate H · Journal of cosmetic dermatology · 2020
    Narrative reviewSkin Health forAstaxanthin
  24. Astaxanthin, oxidative stress, inflammation and cardiovascular disease.
    Fassett RG; Coombes JS · Future cardiology · 2009
    Narrative reviewCardiovascular Support forAstaxanthin
  25. Preparation and in vitro characterization studies of astaxanthin-loaded nanostructured lipid carriers with antioxidant properties.
    Gu L; Wang W; Wu B; Ji S; Xia Q · Journal of biomaterials applications · 2023
    In vitro / ex vivo studySkin Health forAstaxanthin
  26. The effect of astaxanthin supplementation on inflammatory markers, oxidative stress indices, lipid profile, uric acid level, blood pressure, endothelial function, quality of life, and disease symptoms in heart failure subjects.
    Mohammadi SG; Feizi A; Bagherniya M; Shafie D; Ahmadi AR; Kafeshani M · Trials · 2024
    Protocol80 participantsCardiovascular Support forAstaxanthin
  27. Markers of Hypoxia and Oxidative Stress in Aging Volunteers Ingesting Lycosomal Formulation of Dark Chocolate Containing Astaxanthin.
    Petyaev IM; Klochkov VA; Chalyk NE; Pristensky DV; Chernyshova MP; Kyle NH; Bashmakov YK · The journal of nutrition, health & aging · 2019
    Randomized trial32 participantsAnti-Aging forAstaxanthin
  28. The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects of astaxanthin as an adjunctive therapy in community-acquired pneumonia: a randomized controlled trial.
    Youssef FM; Ateyya H; Hanna Samy AE; Elmokadem EM · Frontiers in pharmacology · 2025
    Randomized trial80 participantsAnti-Inflammatory Support forAstaxanthin
  29. The Role of Astaxanthin as an Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Agent in Human Health: A Systematic Review.
    Malcangi G; Inchingolo AM; Casamassima L; Trilli I; Ferrante L; Longo M; Inchingolo F; Marinelli G; Palermo A; Dipalma G; Inchingolo AD · International journal of molecular sciences · 2026
    Systematic review15 studies pooledAnti-Inflammatory Support forAstaxanthin
  30. Astaxanthin ameliorates inflammation, oxidative stress, and reproductive outcomes in endometriosis patients undergoing assisted reproduction: A randomized, triple-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial.
    Rostami S; Alyasin A; Saedi M; Nekoonam S; Khodarahmian M; Moeini A; Amidi F · Frontiers in endocrinology · 2023
    Randomized trial50 participantsAnti-Inflammatory Support forAstaxanthin
  31. Astaxanthin Modulates Inflammation in Type 2 Diabetes via Regulation of microRNAs, Lysophosphatidylcholine, and α-Hydroxybutyrate.
    Sharifi-Rigi A; Zal F; Aarabi MH; Dehghani M; Roustaei Rad N; Taghiyar S · International journal of endocrinology · 2025
    Randomized trial50 participantsAnti-Inflammatory Support forAstaxanthin
  32. Redox-sensitive miRNAs and Humanin could mediate effects of exercise and astaxanthin on oxidative stress and inflammation in type 2 diabetes.
    Basereh A; Khoramipour K; Hosseini N; HajHosseini M; Khodabakhshi A; Amirkhosravi L; Khoramipour K · Scientific reports · 2025
    Randomized trial90 participantsAnti-Inflammatory Support forAstaxanthin
  33. Effects of astaxanthin-rich Haematococcus pluvialis extract on cognitive function: a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled study.
    Katagiri M; Satoh A; Tsuji S; Shirasawa T · Journal of clinical biochemistry and nutrition · 2012
    Randomized trial96 participantsCognitive Support forAstaxanthin
  34. Effect of astaxanthin-rich extract derived from Paracoccus carotinifaciens on cognitive function in middle-aged and older individuals.
    Hayashi M; Ishibashi T; Maoka T · Journal of clinical biochemistry and nutrition · 2020
    Clinical trial54 participantsCognitive Support forAstaxanthin
  35. The Effects of Astaxanthin on Cognitive Function and Neurodegeneration in Humans: A Critical Review.
    Queen CJJ; Sparks SA; Marchant DC; McNaughton LR · Nutrients · 2024
    Narrative reviewCognitive Support forAstaxanthin
  36. Effects of Astaxanthin Supplementation on Fatigue, Motor Function and Cognition: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.
    Liu C; Dong X; Jia J; Ha M · Biological research for nursing · 2024
    Meta-analysis346 participants11 studies pooledCognitive Support forAstaxanthin
  37. Astaxanthin and improvement of dementia: A systematic review of current clinical trials.
    Utomo NP; Pinzon RT; Latumahina PK; Damayanti KRS · Cerebral circulation - cognition and behavior · 2024
    Systematic reviewCognitive Support forAstaxanthin