Parkinson's disease (PD), the second most common neurodegenerative disorder worldwide, is pathologically characterized by the progressive loss of nigral dopaminergic neurons, leading to motor dysfunction and other symptoms. Astaxanthin (AST), a potent natural antioxidant, possesses both antioxidative and anti-inflammatory properties and is capable of crossing the blood-brain barrier. Studies have demonstrated that AST reduces oxidative stress-induced neuronal damage, decreases the release of inflammatory factors, and inhibits apoptosis by modulating various signaling pathways, thereby exerting neuroprotective effects and showing potential value in the prevention and treatment of PD. This article explores the protective mechanisms of AST on nigral dopaminergic neurons in the context of PD, with the aim of providing references and guidance for clinical treatment and the development of novel drugs for PD.