What it is
Haematococcus pluvialis oil is extracted from the freshwater microalga Haematococcus pluvialis, which accumulates the red carotenoid astaxanthin. Astaxanthin is a well-studied antioxidant, and the oil is used to bring antioxidant and conditioning benefits to formulas. It commonly gives products a reddish tint and appears in serums and sunscreens.
Safety & warnings
The algae oil is generally well tolerated in cosmetic use. As a carotenoid-rich oil it can impart color to formulas and to skin at higher levels. It is not a recognized fragrance allergen; as with other plant or algae oils, very rich leave-on uses may warrant monitoring by those prone to clogged pores.
Origin & sourcing
A natural oil obtained from the microalga Haematococcus pluvialis, which is cultivated and processed to concentrate its astaxanthin content.
Questions everyone asks
Why is haematococcus pluvialis oil red?
It is rich in astaxanthin, a red carotenoid pigment the algae produces, which gives the oil its characteristic color.
What does it do in a formula?
It acts mainly as an antioxidant and conditioning ingredient rather than as a sunscreen filter.