A comprehensive review on astaxanthin sources, structure, biochemistry and applications in the cosmetic industry

Astaxanthin, a pink/red pigmented keto carotenoid occurring in certain algae, is an anti-oxidant that protects the cell from damage by attenuating the reactive oxygen species due to which it has immense potential to protect the skin and other allied cells. Commercially available chemical UV-filters used in sunscreen creams and lotions are not only inadequate in protecting the skin against the harmful UV-rays but also cause skin damage like skin irritation, skin-aging, allergic reactions upon prolong exposure to these chemicals. Moreover, they cause environmental pollution and damage, mainly to aquatic life. So, natural compounds having similar or improved protective potential against UV irradiated skin are in dire need in the cosmetics industry. Recent studies substantiate that astaxanthin can be employed in sunscreens owing to its high antioxidant potential and significant use as an anti-aging, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer compound. Astaxanthin accumulation has been found in microalgae and its properties suggest that astaxanthin can provide total protection against all the UVR related skin problems starting from the acute effects of sunburn, pigmentation, erythema to chronic effects of inflammation, photoaging and skin cancer. In this paper, astaxanthin's importance, sources, chemical structure, pilot scale production and its potential applications in cosmetic industry have been discussed.