Meet astaxanthin

The red antioxidant, explained.

A 90 second read on the molecule behind salmon's pink, and why it's becoming the internal step in modern skincare routines.

What is it?

One of nature's most studied antioxidants.

Astaxanthin is a deep red pigment in the carotenoid family, the same family as the orange in carrots and the red in tomatoes. It's produced naturally by a freshwater microalgae called Haematococcus pluvialis, which makes it as a kind of survival shield when exposed to environmental stress (intense sun, dehydration).

Salmon eat the algae. Shrimp eat the algae. That's where the pink comes from. In nature, it's a defense system, and one of the most researched antioxidants in the natural world.

Deep-red Haematococcus pluvialis microalgae, the natural source of astaxanthin

How it works in your body

Defense from within, for real.

Every day, modern life creates oxidative stress in your body, sun, screens, stress, pollution, hard workouts, short nights. Over time, that stress is associated with skin looking dull, dry, tired and less elastic; eyes feeling fatigued; recovery feeling slower.

Astaxanthin helps support your body's natural antioxidant defense against that everyday oxidative stress. Not by treating anything, by supporting the system that protects you.

With consistent daily use over weeks, this shows up as the look of more hydrated, resilient, glowing skin, plus support for eye comfort, workout recovery and healthy aging.

See it visually

What antioxidant defense looks like.

Drag the handle to compare cells under oxidative stress vs. cells with antioxidant support.

Diagram comparing astaxanthin absorption with and without MCT oil

Why MCT oil matters

A fat soluble molecule needs fat to land.

This is the part most products skip. Astaxanthin is fat soluble, your body needs a fat carrier to absorb it. Without one, you swallow most of the dose without actually taking it in.

That's why every Stellora softgel is built with MCT (medium chain triglyceride) oil. It's the carrier that helps astaxanthin actually absorb, so a meaningful 12 mg dose becomes a meaningful 12 mg experience.

12mgPer softgel

3×Vs. typical 4mg

MCTCarrier

What it supports