Encapsulating cosmetic active ingredients in skin-friendly particles enhances their interaction with the skin, resulting in superior and long-lasting cosmetic effects. PhytoSolve® Astaxanthin is an innovative natural product featuring a synergistic blend of the antioxidant astaxanthin (AXN) and natural phospholipids.
AXN is sourced from aquatic organisms, such as Haematococcus pluvialis algae, and is highly effective at scavenging reactive oxygen species (ROS) that cause oxidative stress and contribute to skin aging by damaging proteins, lipids, and DNA within cells. Topical application of AXN has been associated with numerous skin health benefits, including anti-wrinkle effects, UV protection, and increased skin hydration, suggesting its promising role in anti-aging products.
Phospholipids are versatile materials that provide both technical and physiological advantages in cosmetic formulations. Being endogenous and highly biocompatible, they are well-suited for advanced skincare products. Their amphiphilic nature allows them to act as active ingredients for skin protection and rejuvenation, as well as carrier systems for other cosmetic ingredients and skin-friendly emulsifiers.
PhytoSolve® Astaxanthin is a complex of AXN and highly purified non-GMO soybean phospholipids. The emulsion has a small oil droplet size (approximately 50-100 nm in diameter), allowing for strong interaction with the skin and enhancing its cosmetic benefits.
Technical Product Features
PhytoSolve® Astaxanthin is a deep red liquid concentrate containing 4 mg/mL of natural AXN from Haematococcus pluvialis, encapsulated in a pre-formulated emulsion. The product is vegan, preservative-free, and made from non-GMO raw materials, without palm or palm kernel oil derivatives.
It can be easily incorporated into aqueous and semi-solid formulations during the cooling phase, within a recommended pH range of 5 to 8. The resulting formulations take on a pleasant pastel peach to vivid orange-red color, imparting a healthy and glowing appearance to the skin.
Studies on the Cosmetic Effects of PhytoSolve® Astaxanthin
- Enhancement of Skin Antioxidant Potential
The antioxidant properties of PhytoSolve® Astaxanthin were evaluated in vitro by measuring skin antioxidant potential (SAP) in comparison to a placebo formulation. The SAP was assessed by labeling a skin sample with a test radical and quantifying the reduction in free radical concentration 10 and 30 minutes after applying the formulations. The SAP value of the placebo cream was set at 100%, while the cream containing 10% PhytoSolve® Astaxanthin showed an increase in SAP value to 125% after ten minutes and 148% after thirty minutes, confirming its superior antioxidant activity.
- Protection from Skin Damage Caused by UVB Irradiation
In another in vitro study, the protective effect of PhytoSolve® Astaxanthin against UVB irradiation—an important environmental factor in skin aging—was assessed. The viability of a cell-based full-thickness skin model was measured using a dye-based assay after three treatments: (1) no irradiation, (2) UVB irradiation at 80 mJ/cm², and (3) UVB irradiation at 80 mJ/cm² after applying the test formulation. The non-irradiated sample served as the control, showing full viability. After UVB exposure, viability decreased to 63%. However, with the application of the formulation containing 10% PhytoSolve® Astaxanthin, cell viability was maintained at 98%, demonstrating effective protection against UVB-induced damage.
- Clinical Study on Anti-Aging Effects and Consumer Satisfaction
To evaluate the efficacy and tolerability of PhytoSolve® Astaxanthin, a study was conducted with 20 male and female volunteers with healthy skin, supervised by a dermatologist. Participants applied a cream containing 2% PhytoSolve® Astaxanthin twice daily for 28 days. Measurements of wrinkle depth in the eye area, along with standardized photographs, were used to assess anti-wrinkle effects. After 28 days, wrinkle depth was reduced by 26%. Participants reported a 70% reduction in wrinkles, an 80% improvement in complexion, and an 85% satisfaction rate regarding skin feel, with all participants rating the product’s tolerability positively. Additionally, 75% expressed willingness to recommend PhytoSolve® Astaxanthin.
Conclusion
PhytoSolve® Astaxanthin demonstrated excellent cosmetic benefits, showcasing antioxidant effects and the ability to mitigate UVB-induced skin damage in vitro. Volunteer studies confirmed visible anti-wrinkle effects and positive user feedback regarding skin feel and overall appearance. PhytoSolve® Astaxanthin is thus an outstanding anti-aging product, perfectly suited for advanced skincare formulations, offering a synergistic combination of natural phospholipids and the powerful antioxidant AXN.
