Astaxanthin, a member of the carotenoid family, is a lipid soluble dark-red pigment that is the main carotenoid found in the marine world of algae and aquatic animals. Carotenoids participate as accessory pigments in the light-absorption process of photosynthetic organisms. They are responsible for the orange and red colors in plants and algae, and for the wide range of blue, purple and reddish colors in aquatic animals. However, only phytoplankton, algae, plants and certain bacteria and fungi are capable of synthesizing carotenoids. Therefore, animals, including humans, must consume carotenoids as part of their daily diet and rely on this external supply.
Astaxanthin is produced from the microalgae Haematococcus pluvialis, the richest known natural source for this pigment. Recent studies have shown that this distinct carotenoid is capable of protecting against lipid-membrane peroxidation of essential polyunsaturated fatty acids and proteins.
Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) have been shown to significantly damage our cells and therefore contribute to aging. Unfortunately, these free radicals are continuously being produced by our mitochondria via oxidative phosphorylation. During this process the mitochondria utilizes oxygen to oxidize certain molecules and generate energy in the form of ATP. Oxygen is therefore reduced to water, producing several oxygen-derived free radicals or reactive oxygen species (ROS). Fortunately, recent studies indicate that astaxanthin provides potent antioxidant benefits that help reduce the overproduction of these damaging radicals.
FSS Astaxanthin Extract SF is a unique botanical extract specifically designed to provide the benefits associated with astaxanthin. It is suitable for cosmetic and personal care applications where deep conditioning and nourishing properties are desired.
* Compositional Breakdown, Please refer to the SDS, Section 3 for the compositional breakdown
*Please Note: Lot to lot color variation may exist beyond our control due to seasonal weather and resulting crop variations in our supply of the materials*
References:
1. Naguib, Yousry MA. "Antioxidant activities of astaxanthin and related carotenoids." Journal of agricultural and food chemistry 48.4 (2000): 1150-1154.
2. Ambati, Ranga Rao, et al. "Astaxanthin: sources, extraction, stability, biological activities and its commercial applications—a review." Marine drugs 12.1 (2014): 128-152.
3. Tominaga, Kumi, et al. "Cosmetic benefits of astaxanthin on humans subjects." Acta Biochimica Polonica 59.1 (2012).
Our products are for cosmetic and personal care formulations only; External Use Only. We recommend working with a chemist or a formulator if you’re not advanced in formulating.
Statements contained herein have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat and cure, or prevent disease.
Specifications
INCI Nomenclature:
Water & Haematococcus Pluvialis Extract
Suggested Use Levels:
1.0 – 10.0%
Suggested Applications:
Conditioning, Nourishing
Formulating Guidelines:
Add to the aqueous or cooling phase of your formulation
pH:
(Direct) 4.0-8.0
Shelf Life:
12 months from the date of manufacture
Storage:
Protected from direct light and humidity at a temperature of 50°-77°F (10°-25°C)