
As warmer days approach, the focus shifts to how to prepare the skin for strong sun rays. In the context of sun protection, astaxanthin and beta-carotene are often mentioned as important players. So, what are astaxanthin and beta-carotene, how do they work to protect the skin from the sun, and which one should you choose and in what dosage? Read on to find out.
Astaxanthin for Sun Protection
Astaxanthin is a pigment (a type of carotenoid) responsible for the orange-red color of many marine animals, such as salmon, shrimp, and crabs. It is primarily biosynthesized by microalgae/phytoplankton, with the microalga Haematococcus pluvialis being considered the best source for industrial biological production. In addition to its role as an orange-red pigment, astaxanthin is a powerful antioxidant with anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, and anti-diabetic effects on health. It plays a role in cardiovascular health, vision, and brain health, and is particularly noted for its natural protective role in skin health. For this reason, astaxanthin is used as a valuable ingredient in dietary supplements or cosmetic products aimed at maintaining skin health. Oxidative stress is known to play a key role in the skin aging process, with intense UV radiation contributing to the formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which are considered a major mechanism of skin aging. Studies have shown that astaxanthin, with its antioxidant action, can influence several mechanisms of oxidative stress in the skin while simultaneously preventing the formation of inflammatory mediators. Research has indicated that astaxanthin has stronger antioxidant effects than beta-carotene in human skin fibroblasts. Additionally, astaxanthin plays a role in DNA repair and strengthening immune function, which is important in the prevention of melanoma, the 9th most common form of cancer in the Croatian population.
Research on Astaxanthin for Skin Protection
In addition to studies suggesting the mechanism of action of astaxanthin as a natural skin protector from the sun, numerous clinical studies have confirmed this effect. One study found that 4 mg of astaxanthin daily for 10 weeks protects the skin from UV radiation and reduces moisture loss. Another study observed improvements in skin elasticity and wrinkle appearance, as well as increased skin moisture in middle-aged women, with 4 mg of astaxanthin supplementation over 6 weeks. Furthermore, a combination of oral and topical astaxanthin (6 mg orally and 2 mg topically daily) over 8 weeks resulted in significant improvements in skin texture, elasticity, and moisture, as well as reductions in age spots and wrinkles.
How to Take Astaxanthin for Optimal Skin Protection from the Sun
For astaxanthin to have the desired effect as a natural skin protector from the sun, it is recommended to start taking it at least 2 months before increased exposure to UV rays. The optimal dosage is typically 4-8 mg per day, taken with or immediately after a meal since astaxanthin is fat-soluble.
Beta-Carotene for Sun Protection
Beta-carotene is a plant pigment from the carotenoid group (like astaxanthin) and is responsible for the orange, red, and yellow colors in many fruits and vegetables. It is a powerful antioxidant and is converted into vitamin A in the human body, which has numerous health benefits.
Some of the health benefits of beta-carotene include its effects on cognitive function, bone health, potential anti-cancer properties, and its significant role in protecting the skin from harmful UV radiation. Beta-carotene’s effectiveness in protecting the skin is mainly attributed to its antioxidant properties. It is believed to help protect the skin from UV-A and UV-B radiation by preventing the formation of free radicals and may reduce sunburn. Additionally, beta-carotene affects skin aging and photoaging by either removing free radicals or inhibiting enzymes that potentially produce free radicals, which can help prevent cellular damage and skin aging.
Research on Beta-Carotene
The role of beta-carotene as a natural skin protector from the sun is supported by studies.
How to Take Beta-Carotene
For optimal effectiveness in protecting the skin from the sun, beta-carotene is best started 8-10 weeks before increased sun exposure. Although there is a recommended daily dose for beta-carotene, doses of 6-15 mg per day are generally considered safe. Beta-carotene should be taken with or after a meal since it is fat-soluble.
Astaxanthin or Beta-Carotene – Which to Choose for Optimal Skin Protection from the Sun?
Having explained the effects of astaxanthin and beta-carotene, the question arises: which should you take for optimal sun protection? Astaxanthin is a compound with strong antioxidant properties, as confirmed by numerous studies. It is suitable for those who wish to naturally protect their skin from the harmful effects of the sun, reduce skin dryness after sun exposure, and simultaneously increase skin elasticity and reduce the formation of age spots. On the other hand, the antioxidant effect of beta-carotene is somewhat weaker. For reducing sunburn and protecting the skin from the sun, it is better used in combination with other antioxidants. However, beta-carotene is crucial because it is a provitamin of vitamin A and can be particularly beneficial for those with vitamin A deficiency. It is important to note that excessive use of synthetic beta-carotene may increase the risk of lung cancer for smokers and those with asbestosis. Therefore, when choosing supplements, it is better to select those containing natural beta-carotene (e.g., carrot root extract or Dunaliella salina algae extract) as they are entirely safe for smokers and others. Both compounds offer different mechanisms of sun protection, and their effects are not mutually exclusive. For optimal sun protection, it is advisable to use a combination of astaxanthin and beta-carotene.
- Those who anticipate a period of intense sun exposure
- People with fair skin
- Those living in areas with abundant sunshine
- People who spend a lot of time at the sea annually
- Athletes and active individuals engaged in outdoor sports
Sources
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