For antioxidant skin support
What does astaxanthin do for skin?
What is astaxanthin?
Astaxanthin is a naturally occurring carotenoid, a type of antioxidant pigment found in certain microalgae and in marine life that consumes it, including salmon and shrimp.
The astaxanthin in ONA Gut & Glow is derived from natural red algae, a concentrated natural source of astaxanthin. We chose it because astaxanthin has been studied specifically for skin health and complements the other skin-focused ingredients in our daily formula.*
What does astaxanthin do for skin?
Our skin is constantly exposed to oxidative stress from everyday factors such as UV exposure and environmental stressors. Antioxidants help protect cells against oxidative stress by neutralizing free radicals.
Research on oral astaxanthin has explored its potential to:
- Support skin hydration and elasticity*
- Support smoother-looking skin and the appearance of fine lines*
- Help protect cells against oxidative stress*
Astaxanthin isn't a replacement for sunscreen or topical skincare. Instead, we think of it as another layer of an inside-out skin ritual, supporting the skin through nutrition alongside the ingredients that provide its structural building blocks.*
Why combine astaxanthin with collagen and hyaluronic acid?
This combination is intentional.
Marine collagen provides peptides and amino acids that support the body's collagen matrix, while hyaluronic acid is naturally found in the skin and is known for its ability to bind water. Astaxanthin adds antioxidant support to the equation.*
There is also research specifically examining astaxanthin combined with collagen hydrolysate. In a 2014 human study, women who consumed a combination of astaxanthin and collagen hydrolysate for 12 weeks experienced improvements in measures of facial skin elasticity and skin-barrier-related markers compared with placebo.*
That's why ONA doesn't approach skin health with a single "hero" ingredient. We bring together collagen + hyaluronic acid + astaxanthin + vitamin C as complementary parts of one daily formula.
How much astaxanthin is in ONA?
Each stick of ONA Gut & Glow contains 4 mg of astaxanthin.
We chose 4 mg because it falls within amounts that have been used in human research investigating oral astaxanthin and skin health.* More isn't automatically better, we formulate each ingredient to work as part of the complete Gut & Glow system.
FAQ
Is astaxanthin safe to take every day?
Astaxanthin has been studied for daily oral use in humans. As with any dietary supplement, follow the recommended serving and speak with your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication or have a medical condition.
Will astaxanthin change my skin color?
At ONA's 4 mg daily amount, astaxanthin isn't included to change the color of your skin. Its naturally reddish pigment is one of the reasons salmon and certain other marine animals develop their characteristic color.
Is ONA's astaxanthin vegan?
The astaxanthin itself is derived from microalgae, not fish.* However, ONA Gut & Glow is not vegan because the formula contains wild-caught marine collagen derived from fish.
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.