Astaxanthin, a natural carotenoid pigment derived from red algae (Haematococcus pluvialis), has received significant attention in dermatological and cosmetic research in recent years. This is due to its extremely potent antioxidant properties, which far exceed those of conventional antioxidants. Astaxanthin not only plays a role in supporting overall skin health — it is also particularly beneficial for sensitive areas such as the lips.
Astaxanthin's unique biochemical structure allows it to effectively combat oxidative stress, which is one of the main causes of dryness, cracking, and premature aging of the lips.
How does it exert its effect?
The molecular structure of astaxanthin allows it to integrate into cell membranes and provide strong protection against reactive oxygen species (ROS). This is especially important for lips, which:
- have a thinner stratum corneum,
- do not contain sebaceous glands,
- therefore, they are much more sensitive to external environmental influences — such as UV radiation and pollution.
Research has shown that astaxanthin has a significantly stronger free radical scavenging capacity than other well-known antioxidants, such as vitamin C or vitamin E (Guerin et al., 2003). By neutralizing reactive oxygen species (ROS), astaxanthin:
- preserves the integrity of cells,
- supports the regeneration of damaged lip tissue,
- helps maintain soft, smooth and healthy-looking lips.