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Astaxanthin 12 mg

California Gold Nutrition
4.7
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
(46515 ratings)
Astaxanthin 12 mg
Product Image
Score87
A high natural-source astaxanthin dose gives focused antioxidant support across several goals, but delivery details and complementary pathways are limited.
How scoring works
Quantity:30 Softgel(s) • (30 servings)
Goals:
Anti-Aging
Vision Support
Heart Health
Cardiovascular Support
Skin Health
Anti-Inflammatory Support
Joint Health
Cognitive Support

Score 87

A high natural-source astaxanthin dose gives focused antioxidant support across several goals, but delivery details and complementary pathways are limited.
How scoring works

Also available as

1 option
120 servings Astaxanthin 12 mg • 120 Softgel(s) • 120 servings $46.60 ($0.38 per serving)
$12.48($0.41 per serving)
iHerb
$ 12.48
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Analysis

The softgel supplies 12 mg of astaxanthin from Haematococcus pluvialis, a clearly identified natural algal source. The amount sits at the upper end of a commonly used range and is delivered in a format suited to fat-soluble ingredients.

Astaxanthin may support skin, vision, joint comfort, cardiovascular tissues, and inflammation linked to oxidative stress. It remains a single antioxidant pathway and does not provide collagen, lutein, omega-3 fats, CoQ10, cartilage building blocks, or direct cognitive ingredients.

The thirty-serving bottle suits a shorter trial or users who want the higher amount. Carrier oil, oxidation protection, and complete softgel composition are not supplied, so absorption details and allergens cannot be fully checked.

Who is it for
  • Adults seeking a higher-dose astaxanthin softgel
  • Users focused on skin, eye, joint, or cardiovascular antioxidant support
  • People wanting a short thirty-serving trial
Best for
  • Broad antioxidant support
  • Skin and visual resilience
  • Single-ingredient astaxanthin use

Pros

  • Provides 12 mg astaxanthin
  • Uses Haematococcus pluvialis extract
  • Softgel suits the fat-soluble carotenoid
  • Clearly states source and amount

Cons

  • Only 30 servings
  • Carrier oil is not disclosed
  • Oxidation-protection details are missing
  • Single active offers narrow pathway coverage

Warnings

  • The carrier oil and full softgel ingredients are not supplied, so people with food allergies should verify the complete label.
  • People taking anticoagulant, antiplatelet, or blood-pressure medicines should review concentrated astaxanthin with their clinician before use.
  • Do not exceed the labeled serving because 12 mg is already at the upper end of a commonly used supplemental range.

Nutrient quality

95 Highest impact

Natural algal astaxanthin provides a well-regarded form at a meaningful supplemental amount. The focused formula fits its intended uses without filler or obvious excess.

Ingredient transparency

84 Highest impact

The active amount is clear and no proprietary blend hides its dose. Daily directions and a complete inactive-ingredient list are not supplied.

Customer satisfaction

73 High impact

The supplied aggregate rating is favorable and supported by an exceptionally large review volume. Detailed feedback is unavailable, so repeated complaints and fit with the intended use cannot be judged.

Value for money

95 Highest impact

The formula provides strong practical value once an effective serving is considered. The focused active profile avoids low-value extras, while category competitiveness follows the serving value.

Report analysis

Goals

Anti-Aging
Anti-Aging
Impact
Highest effect
B+ Goal FitA+ Strength of SupportC+ CoverageA+ Formula Quality
Astaxanthin · 12 mg

Natural astaxanthin from Haematococcus pluvialis at 12 mg provides a meaningful antioxidant amount for skin, eye, and cellular membrane protection. The identified algal source and softgel format support good absorption quality.

The focused formula offers strong depth against oxidative stress but does not address mitochondrial energy, structural proteins, or glycation. Human evidence is useful for skin and oxidative markers, while broad healthspan effects remain uncertain.

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

Astaxanthin may support retinal antioxidant defenses and help with visual fatigue or eye strain. Its evidence is promising but less established than AREDS2 nutrients or lutein and zeaxanthin for macular support.

The algae-derived form is clearly disclosed at a substantial amount in a softgel. A single carotenoid cannot cover structural lipids, macular pigment balance, or the broader antioxidant mineral pathways.

Study evidence
Astaxanthin Mixed 7 studies
Heart Health
Heart Health
Impact
Highest effect
B Goal FitA Strength of SupportC+ CoverageA Formula Quality
Astaxanthin · 12 mg

Astaxanthin provides lipid-soluble antioxidant support relevant to oxidative stress in cardiovascular tissues. The 12 mg amount is clearly stated and uses a natural Haematococcus pluvialis source in a softgel.

Human cardiovascular evidence is promising but less established than evidence for omega-3s or CoQ10. No carrier oil or stability protection is identified, which leaves some delivery and oxidation details uncertain.

Study evidence
Astaxanthin Supportive 16 studies
Cardiovascular Support
Cardiovascular Support
Impact
Highest effect
B Goal FitA Strength of SupportC- CoverageA Formula Quality
Astaxanthin · 12 mg

Astaxanthin provides targeted antioxidant support and may help blood flow and protection against lipid oxidation. As a single active, it does not address triglycerides, nitric oxide production, rhythm minerals, or cardiac energy.

The 12 mg dose and algae source are clearly disclosed and substantial. The focused formula is easy to assess, though cardiovascular outcome evidence remains limited.

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

Natural astaxanthin from Haematococcus pluvialis provides targeted antioxidant support for skin resilience and light-related stress. The 12 mg amount falls within a strong supplemental range.

No collagen, ceramide, or hydration active broadens the formula beyond antioxidant defense. Carrier oil, branded sourcing, and oxidation-protection details are not supplied.

Study evidence
Astaxanthin Supportive 12 studies
Anti-Inflammatory Support
Anti-Inflammatory Support
Impact
Highest effect
B Goal FitA Strength of SupportD+ CoverageA Formula Quality
Astaxanthin · 12 mg

The natural algal astaxanthin offers targeted antioxidant support that may help limit inflammation linked to oxidative stress. Its clearly stated amount sits at the upper end of a commonly used supplemental range.

The focused formula avoids label padding and uses a softgel suited to a fat-soluble carotenoid. It does not address direct inflammatory enzymes or immune-regulating nutrient pathways, so coverage remains narrow.

Study evidence
Astaxanthin Supportive 18 studies

Ingredients

IngredientAmount per serving
Astaxanthin (Haematococcus pluvialis extract)
 12 mg
Gluten Free Adults 18–50 Dairy Free
Report overview
Astaxanthin (Haematococcus pluvialis extract) · 12 mg OverallScore86
B+ Active Ingredient Quality & BioavailabilityB+ Dose, Safety & Label TransparencyA+ Value

A clearly identified natural algal source supports ingredient quality. The clearly stated active amount lies within the main clinical range. Cost efficiency is excellent for the active amount provided.

View ingredientView products
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88 Performance

Vegan Hawaiian Astaxanthin 12 mg

BioAstin
<p>A 12 mg astaxanthin serving that uses a named Haematococcus pluvialis algae source provides a well-defined antioxidant-focused option. Its 12 mg active amount matches the original while offering a different source or value profile. The algae source is identified, but the supplied data do not show the extraction ratio or complete carrier details.</p>
86 Performance

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SR Sports Research
<p>A 12 mg astaxanthin serving that uses the named Astalif astaxanthin form provides a well-defined antioxidant-focused option. Its 12 mg active amount matches the original while offering a different source or value profile. The named form improves identification, though complete carrier and extraction details are not supplied.</p>
87 Performance

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California Gold Nutrition
<p>A 12 mg astaxanthin serving that uses the named Astalif astaxanthin form provides a well-defined antioxidant-focused option. Its 12 mg active amount matches the original while offering a different source or value profile. The named form improves identification, though complete carrier and extraction details are not supplied.</p>
86 Budget

Astaxanthin 4 mg

NOW
<p>A lower per-serving cost makes the 4 mg astaxanthin dose a more economical alternative. The formula uses a named Haematococcus pluvialis algae source, while its 4 mg active amount is lower than the original’s 12 mg serving. The algae source is identified, but the supplied data do not show the extraction ratio or complete carrier details.</p>
88 Budget

Astaxanthin 10 mg

Lake Avenue Nutrition
<p>A lower per-serving cost makes the 10 mg astaxanthin dose a more economical alternative. The formula uses a named Haematococcus pluvialis algae source, while its 10 mg active amount is lower than the original’s 12 mg serving. The algae source is identified, but the supplied data do not show the extraction ratio or complete carrier details.</p>
83 Budget

Astaxanthin Plus 4 mg

Natural Factors
<p>A lower per-serving cost makes the 4 mg astaxanthin dose a more economical alternative. The formula uses a named Haematococcus pluvialis algae source, while its 4 mg active amount is lower than the original’s 12 mg serving. The algae source is identified, but the supplied data do not show the extraction ratio or complete carrier details.</p>
86 Value

Hawaiian Astaxanthin 12 mg

BioAstin
<p>The combination of a 12 mg astaxanthin serving and practical serving economics creates a balanced quality-to-value option. The formula uses a named Haematococcus pluvialis algae source, while its 12 mg active amount matches the original. The algae source is identified, but the supplied data do not show the extraction ratio or complete carrier details.</p>
85 Value

Astaxanthin 12 mg

Jarrow Formulas
<p>The combination of a 12 mg astaxanthin serving and practical serving economics creates a balanced quality-to-value option. The formula uses a named Haematococcus pluvialis algae source, while its 12 mg active amount matches the original. The algae source is identified, but the supplied data do not show the extraction ratio or complete carrier details.</p>
83 Value

Triple Strength Astaxanthin 12 mg

Healthy Origins
<p>The combination of a 12 mg astaxanthin serving and practical serving economics creates a balanced quality-to-value option. The formula uses a named Haematococcus pluvialis algae source, while its 12 mg active amount matches the original. Two separate astaxanthin entries use the same amount, creating uncertainty about whether the label describes one active dose or two.</p>
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Sources

Published studies used for the product analysis and the top-ranked studies for each ingredient and goal.

  1. Assessing the Effects of Moderate to High Dosage of Astaxanthin Supplementation on Lipid Profile Parameters-A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Studies.
    Fornari Laurindo L; Dogani Rodrigues V; Penna Carneiro D; Sérgio Marangão Filho L; Pereira ESBM; José Tofano R; Chagas EFB; Dos Santos Haber JF; Cristina Castilho Caracio F; Moreira LZ; Valenti VE; Maria Barbalho S · Pharmaceuticals (Basel, Switzerland) · 2025
    Meta-analysis8 studies pooledHeart Health forAstaxanthin
  2. Lipid profile and glucose changes after supplementation with astaxanthin: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.
    Ursoniu S; Sahebkar A; Serban MC; Banach M · Archives of medical science : AMS · 2015
    Meta-analysis280 participants7 studies pooledCardiovascular Support Heart Health forAstaxanthin
  3. 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 pooledSkin Health Anti-Aging forAstaxanthin
  4. 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
  5. 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
  6. 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
  7. 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
  8. 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
  9. 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
  10. 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
  11. The effect of astaxanthin supplementation on inflammatory markers, lipid profile, and anthropometric indices in patients with heart failure: a randomized controlled trial.
    Ghotboddin Mohammadi S; Shafie D; Feizi A; Ahmadi AR; Bagherniya M; Kafeshani M · Scientific reports · 2026
    Randomized trial80 participantsCardiovascular Support forAstaxanthin
  12. Effects of Astaxanthin supplementation on selected metabolic parameters, anthropometric indices, Sirtuin1 and TNF-α levels in patients with coronary artery disease: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial.
    Heidari M; Chaboksafar M; Alizadeh M; Sohrabi B; Kheirouri S · Frontiers in nutrition · 2023
    Randomized trial50 participantsCardiovascular Support forAstaxanthin
  13. Astaxanthin supplement improves clinical outcomes, quality of life, and inflammatory factors in patients with rheumatoid arthritis: a randomized clinical trial.
    Grigorian A; Tabatabaeyan A; Salesi M; Feizi A; Ahmadi AR; Kafeshani M · Food & function · 2025
    Randomized trial60 participantsJoint Health forAstaxanthin
  14. 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
  15. 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
  16. Astaxanthin supplementation mildly reduced oxidative stress and inflammation biomarkers: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.
    Ma B; Lu J; Kang T; Zhu M; Xiong K; Wang J · Nutrition research (New York, N.Y.) · 2022
    Meta-analysis380 participants12 studies pooledAnti-Inflammatory Support forAstaxanthin
  17. Astaxanthin has no effect on arterial stiffness, oxidative stress, or inflammation in renal transplant recipients: a randomized controlled trial (the XANTHIN trial).
    Coombes JS; Sharman JE; Fassett RG · The American journal of clinical nutrition · 2016
    Randomized trial61 participantsAnti-Inflammatory Support forAstaxanthin
  18. 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
  19. 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
  20. 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
  21. 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
  22. 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
  23. 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
  24. 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 Heart Health forAstaxanthin
  25. 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 Heart Health forAstaxanthin
  26. 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 Heart Health forAstaxanthin
  27. 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
  28. 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
  29. 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
  30. 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
  31. 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
  32. Impact of astaxanthin on oxidative markers, uric acid, and clinical symptoms in heart failure: a randomized clinical trial.
    Mohammadi SG; Shafie D; Feizi A; Bagherniya M; Ahmadi AR; Kafeshani M · BMC cardiovascular disorders · 2025
    Randomized trial80 participantsHeart Health forAstaxanthin
  33. Astaxanthin Influence on Health Outcomes of Adults at Risk of Metabolic Syndrome: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.
    Leung LY; Chan SM; Tam HL; Wong ES · Nutrients · 2022
    Meta-analysis321 participants7 studies pooledHeart Health forAstaxanthin
  34. A Multicenter, Randomized, Double-Blinded, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial to Evaluate the Efficacy and Safety of a Krill Oil, Astaxanthin, and Oral Hyaluronic Acid Complex on Joint Health in People with Mild Osteoarthritis.
    Hill WS; Dohnalek MH; Ha Y; Kim SJ; Jung JC; Kang SB · Nutrients · 2023
    Randomized trial100 participantsJoint Health forAstaxanthin
  35. 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
  36. 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
  37. Cosmetic benefits of astaxanthin on humans subjects.
    Tominaga K; Hongo N; Karato M; Yamashita E · Acta biochimica Polonica · 2012
    Other66 participantsSkin Health forAstaxanthin
  38. 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
  39. 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