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Astaxanthin 4 mg

Dr. Mercola
4.8
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
(249 ratings)
Astaxanthin 4 mg
Product Image
Score80
Organic H. pluvialis astaxanthin at 4 mg provides a clear, credible entry-level antioxidant serving. A dry capsule without a stated carrier oil may be less reliable for this fat-soluble carotenoid.
How scoring works
Quantity:30 Capsule(s) • (30 servings)
Goals:
Skin Health
Vision Support
Anti-Inflammatory Support
Anti-Aging
Cognitive Support
Cardiovascular Support

Score 80

Organic H. pluvialis astaxanthin at 4 mg provides a clear, credible entry-level antioxidant serving. A dry capsule without a stated carrier oil may be less reliable for this fat-soluble carotenoid.
How scoring works

Also available as

3 options
90 servings Astaxanthin 4 mg • 90 Capsule(s) • 90 servings $43.99 ($0.48 per serving) 12.00mg • 90 servings Astaxanthin 12 mg • 90 Capsule(s) • 90 servings $94.97 ($1.05 per serving) 12.00mg • 30 Capsule(s) servings Astaxanthin 12 mg • 30 Capsule(s) • 30 servings $39.97 ($1.33 per serving)
$14.99($0.49 per serving)
Pure Formulas
$ 14.99
iHerb
$ 16.50
Report prices

Analysis

Organic H. pluvialis astaxanthin at 4 mg provides a clear, credible entry-level antioxidant serving. The focused capsule is simple and relevant to skin, visual, and general oxidative support.

A dry capsule without a stated carrier oil may be less reliable for this fat-soluble carotenoid. Stabilization and protective-packaging details are also missing.

It suits users who want organic-labeled astaxanthin at a moderate daily amount. Taking it with a fat-containing meal may improve practical absorption.

Who is it for
  • users who want organic-labeled astaxanthin at a moderate daily amount
  • Adults seeking antioxidant support
  • Users comfortable with the stated formulation trade-offs
Best for
  • Organic-labeled astaxanthin
  • Moderate skin and eye support
  • Simple capsule use

Pros

  • Natural algal source is clear
  • Useful 4 mg amount
  • Focused formula

Cons

  • No built-in fat carrier
  • No oxidation-protection details
  • Only moderate value

Warnings

  • Astaxanthin may add to the effects of blood-pressure or glucose-lowering medicines
  • Use cautiously with anticoagulant or antiplatelet medicines because combined effects are uncertain
  • Use during pregnancy or breastfeeding only with individualized professional guidance

Nutrient quality

88 Highest impact

Organic Haematococcus pluvialis astaxanthin in a capsule gives the formula reasonable ingredient quality. The amounts are useful, though dose depth or delivery detail leaves room for improvement.

Ingredient transparency

85 Highest impact

The meaningful actives and their amounts are clearly identified. Serving guidance and the complete inactive-ingredient list are not fully supplied.

Customer satisfaction

66 High impact

The aggregate rating is strong but the review volume limits confidence. No review excerpts are supplied to assess repeated complaints or purpose-specific experiences.

Value for money

77 High impact

Premium positioning or disclosure limits weaken the value case. Serving value is reasonable, with trade-offs in delivery or disclosure.

Report analysis

Goals

Skin Health
Skin Health
Impact
Highest effect
A- Goal FitB+ Strength of SupportC CoverageA Formula Quality
Astaxanthin · 4 mg

Natural astaxanthin provides focused antioxidant support with direct relevance to UV-related oxidative stress, elasticity, and moisture. The disclosed amount matches common human use.

The simple formula is easy to assess and avoids distracting ingredients. Missing carrier-oil, stabilization, and protective-packaging details leave some uncertainty about delivery and preservation.

Study evidence
Astaxanthin Supportive 12 studies
Vision Support
Vision Support
Impact
Highest effect
B+ Goal FitA- Strength of SupportC- CoverageA Formula Quality
Astaxanthin · 4 mg

Astaxanthin provides targeted antioxidant support and has human evidence for digital eye strain and retinal blood flow. As a single active, it does not supply macular pigments, zinc, vitamin C, or structural omega-3 fats.

The four-milligram amount and algae source are clearly disclosed and appear meaningful. The focused formula is easy to assess, though its pathway coverage is intentionally narrow.

Study evidence
Astaxanthin Mixed 7 studies
Anti-Inflammatory Support
Anti-Inflammatory Support
Impact
High effect
B Goal FitB Strength of SupportC- CoverageA+ Formula Quality
Astaxanthin · 4 mg

Natural astaxanthin from microalgae provides targeted antioxidant protection that may help reduce oxidative-stress signaling. Human evidence supports some inflammatory-marker and tissue-comfort effects, but it is not as extensive as fish oil evidence.

The 4 mg amount aligns with common daily use and is fully disclosed. No carrier oil, stabilizer, or protective packaging detail is supplied for this fat-soluble carotenoid.

Study evidence
Astaxanthin Supportive 18 studies
Anti-Aging
Anti-Aging
Impact
High effect
C+ Goal FitB+ Strength of SupportC+ CoverageA+ Formula Quality
Astaxanthin · 4 mg

Astaxanthin from Haematococcus pluvialis provides a relevant antioxidant amount for skin, eye, and vascular oxidative-stress support. Human evidence is useful for selected markers but does not establish broad healthspan extension.

The algal source and active amount are clear, while lipid delivery and stability protection are not disclosed. The focused formula offers antioxidant depth without broader mitochondrial or structural support.

Study evidence
Astaxanthin Supportive 4 studies
Cognitive Support
Cognitive Support
Impact
High effect
C Goal FitB+ Strength of SupportD CoverageA+ Formula Quality
Astaxanthin · 4 mg

Astaxanthin crosses the blood-brain barrier and provides targeted antioxidant support for neurons. Human evidence for direct cognitive improvement is still limited.

The algae-derived form and exact amount are clearly disclosed in a focused capsule. The serving is moderate and does not address memory signaling, stress resilience, or foundational nutrient gaps.

Study evidence
Astaxanthin Mixed 6 studies
Cardiovascular Support
Cardiovascular Support
Impact
High effect
C Goal FitB+ Strength of SupportD CoverageA Formula Quality
Astaxanthin · 4 mg

Astaxanthin offers antioxidant support that may benefit vascular oxidative balance. Direct evidence for major cardiovascular outcomes is limited, and the formula does not address lipids, blood pressure, or cardiac energy broadly.

The algae-derived form and exact amount are clearly disclosed at a modest supplemental level. The focused design is easy to assess but narrow for comprehensive heart support.

Study evidence
Astaxanthin Supportive 12 studies

Ingredients

IngredientAmount per serving
organic Astaxanthin (Haematococcus pluvialis extract)
 4 mg
Adults 18–50
Report overview
Astaxanthin (Haematococcus pluvialis extract) · 4 mg OverallScore68
C Active Ingredient Quality & BioavailabilityB+ Dose, Safety & Label TransparencyD+ Value

The natural microalgae extract provides a well-supported source at an amount aligned with common human use. Clear active disclosure is helpful, although no trademarked ingredient, carrier oil, stabilizer, or protective packaging detail is supplied. Value is only moderate when judged by the amount of astaxanthin delivered.

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 4 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 4 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 4 mg, the stronger ingredient assessment offers a clearer combination of astaxanthin source, dose, and delivery.</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 4 mg, the lower serving cost improves value while keeping astaxanthin as the central active.</p>
86 Budget

Hawaiian Astaxanthin 12 mg

BioAstin
<p>Natural Haematococcus pluvialis astaxanthin in a fat-containing softgel provides a strong source, dose, and delivery combination. Compared with Astaxanthin 4 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 4 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 4 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 4 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 4 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. 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
  2. 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
  3. 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
  4. 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
  5. 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
  6. 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 participantsAnti-Aging Skin Health forAstaxanthin
  7. Astaxanthin, cell membrane nutrient with diverse clinical benefits and anti-aging potential.
    Kidd P · Alternative medicine review : a journal of clinical therapeutic · 2012
    Narrative reviewAnti-Aging Vision Support forAstaxanthin
  8. 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 pooledAnti-Aging forAstaxanthin
  9. 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
  10. 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
  11. 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
  12. 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
  13. 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
  14. 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
  15. 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
  16. 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
  17. 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
  18. 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
  19. 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
  20. 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
  21. 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
  22. 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
  23. 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
  24. 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
  25. 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
  26. Cosmetic benefits of astaxanthin on humans subjects.
    Tominaga K; Hongo N; Karato M; Yamashita E · Acta biochimica Polonica · 2012
    Other66 participantsSkin Health forAstaxanthin
  27. 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
  28. 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
  29. 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