Supplements targeting skin health are booming, with more than 30% average annual growth in product launches of dietary supplements globally between 2017 and 2021, according to a report from Innova Market Insights. Europe was the leading region with the most nutricosmetic supplement launches at 41% in that period, while North America had 32% of supplement launches. Then, the pandemic hit. Botanical & herbal supplements for beauty from within have seen the biggest growth, supplement launches were five times more in 2021 than in 2017. The top formats used for skin health supplements are capsules and tablets, while gummy skin health supplements are fast trending.
Environmental factors, such as prolonged exposure to the sun, pollution, cigarettes and toxins damage the skin. UV radiation and blue light have a substantial negative effect on the skin leading to photoaging with visible signs that include fine lines, wrinkles, sagging and age spots. The production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) is a major cause of skin damage. An imbalance between free radical activity and antioxidant activity results in oxidative stress. Oxidative stress impairs the natural renewal and repair process of the skin and damages DNA directly, leading to cell mutations and premature aging.
This oxidative stress is a major cause of photoaging and premature aging of the skin. Studies suggest that natural astaxanthin can promote healthy skin aging: It reduces oxidative stress, improves skin appearance (includes hyperpigmentation), reduces fine lines and wrinkles, reduces water loss, and increases elasticity and UV protection.