Astaxanthin (AXT)
is one of the most important fat-soluble carotenoids
that have abundant and diverse therapeutic applications namely in
liver disease, cardiovascular disease, cancer treatment, protection
of the nervous system, protection of the skin and eyes against UV
radiation, and boosting the immune system. However, due to its intrinsic
reactivity, it is chemically unstable, and therefore, the design and
production processes for this compound need to be precisely formulated.
Nanoencapsulation is widely applied to protect AXT against degradation
during digestion and storage, thus improving its physicochemical properties
and therapeutic effects. Nanocarriers are delivery systems with many
advantages—ease of surface modification, biocompatibility,
and targeted drug delivery and release. This review discusses the
technological advancement in nanocarriers for the delivery of AXT
through the brain, eyes, and skin, with emphasis on the benefits,
limitations, and efficiency in practice.