The present invention relates to a method for obtaining nanostructures, specifically nanoemulsions and nanocapsules of carotenoids such as curcumin and astaxanthin, which method, using particular concentrations of the ingredients forming the nanostructures, allows high charges of the active ingredient in the nanostructures containing said ingredients and protection of said nanostructures from environmental factors such as oxidation and light. The invention also relates to the nanoemulsions and nanocapsules of curcumin and astaxanthin for use in the food, pharmaceutical and cosmetics industries, among others.