Astaxanthin is the red pigment from algae that colours salmon and shrimp, sold for skin, eyes and exercise.
Calculator Official intake Study doses Best form Safety Sources
This is not an essential nutrient, so there is no official daily intake. Only study doses are shown.
These are doses tested in research, not personal advice. Some exceed the upper limit because they were short courses or given under medical care.
3-6 mg a day
A meta-analysis found oral astaxanthin improved skin moisture and elasticity but not wrinkle depth. A review found benefits at 3 to 6 mg a day, but most studies were small, in Japanese women, and many were industry-funded.
No best form
Why: Studies used astaxanthin from Haematococcus algae. Take with a meal that contains fat.
Wild salmon, trout, shrimp, krill.
No important interactions known.
No serious side effects reported in trials.
Pregnant, breastfeeding, on medication, or managing a health condition? Check with a doctor or pharmacist before starting a supplement.
Values checked: November 12, 2026.