We may not think of it that way, but the skin is both the largest and most exposed organ of our body. Every day, our skin is exposed to environmental aggressions–such as UV radiation, pollution, allergens and irritants of all kinds. The skin has its own self-protection mechanisms, of course, but sometimes they’re not enough. If you want to give your skin a helping hand and help it protect itself from external aggressions, today’s ingredient may be exactly what you need: we’re here to talk about ectoin, a little-known skincare ingredient full of protective, repairing, and soothing benefits.
What is ectoin?
Ectoin (or ectoine) is a natural molecule found in several species of microorganisms–specifically, microorganisms that live under extreme conditions of salinity, drought, irradiation, pH, and temperature, according to one study.
“Ectoine binds strongly to water molecules, thereby forming a protective hydrate shield around proteins and other biomolecules,” the study continues. Through this mechanism, ectoin is able to stabilize and protect proteins and biological membranes from the damage associated with an extreme environment. Ectoin is often referred to as an “extremolyte”, and that’s what that word means: a small organic molecule that protects cells under “extreme, virtually inhabitable conditions”.
How ectoin benefits your skin
“The protective properties of ectoine, formerly described for only extremophilic microorganisms, can be transferred to human skin,” according to a 2008 study, which found that the topical application of ectoin was able to protect the skin from damage caused by surfactants, reduce transepidermal water loss, and improve the skin barrier function, thus demonstrating that ectoine “functions as a superior moisturizer with long-term efficacy.” The same study suggested that “because of its outstanding water-binding activity, ectoine might be especially useful in preventing water loss in dry atopic skin and in recovering skin viability and preventing skin aging.”
Other studies have shown that ectoin, in addition to protecting the skin from the effects of UVA-induced cell damage, can also promote skin hydration, skin elasticity, and skin surface structure.
All in all, studies have confirmed that ectoin can be a valuable skincare ally, as it:
- Protects the skin against environmental aggressions;
- Reduces transepidermal water loss;
- Improves the skin barrier function;
- Promotes long-term hydration;
- Boosts skin elasticity and structure.
These benefits can be useful both for sensitive skin that reacts disproportionately to external stimuli, for example, and for aging skin that seeks to combat the visible and structural effects of aging.
The best skincare products with ectoin
Ectoin serums
With a rich and nourishing oil texture, Freshly Cosmetics Ceramide Barrier Oil Serum was specially formulated to defend dry and sensitive skin against environmental aggressions, such as pollution, stress, or sun damage. The formula combines bioidentical ceramides, plant oils, and ectoin in a deeply nourishing cocktail that helps strengthen the skin barrier, retain moisture, and soothe any signs of sensitivity and irritation–all with 100% natural ingredients.
Shiseido Vital Perfection LiftDefine Radiance Night Concentrate may not be the first product that comes to mind when you think of ectoin, but that’s just testament to the versatility of this ingredient. The main objective of this night serum is to restore a lifted, sculpted, and defined look to the skin. The key ingredient is LiftDynamic 4D Technology, aided by the pro-collagen properties of watercress and iris root extract, the brightening benefits of vitamin C, and, of course the protective action of ectoin.
Ectoin moisturizers
Evolve Pro+ Ectoin Soothing Cream, as the name suggests, has ectoin as its key ingredient–which not only offers protection against environmental aggressions, but also helps reduce skin irritation and prevent signs of aging. That could be enough, but this cream also includes chaga mushroom extract to boost skin resilience, and camellia oil to nourish, soothe, and prevent dry and flaky skin. All in all, it’s the perfect moisturizer to reinforce the skin barrier and protect sensitive skin from everyday aggressions.
Juice to Cleanse Vinegar Kombucha Vegan Cream is a moisturizing cream that cares for dry and chapped skin. The formula’s key ingredient is fermented kombucha, which is rich in enzymes, probiotics, vitamins, amino acids, and polyphenols. Joining it is Deep Hydration List, a complex that includes, among other ingredients, Fucoin-100 (aka biosaccharide gum-1, a moisturizing sugar), amino acids, ectoin, and three forms of hyaluronic acid. The result? A rich and deeply hydrating cream that works with the skin’s natural moisture barrier to maintain the balance of dry skin.
Ectoin eye creams
![DR. GRANDEL Sensi [Code] Eye Cream 20ml](https://static.beautytocare.com/media/catalog/product//d/r/dr-grandel-sensi-code-eye-cream-20ml.jpg)
DR. GRANDEL Sensi [Code] Eye Cream is an eye cream specially developed for the needs of sensitive skin. With a soothing and hydrating formula, this eye cream combines the protective properties of ectoin with microbiome-friendly lysate from lactic acid bacteria (Lactococcus lactis) and moisturizing oils of evening primrose and almond. In addition to keeping your skin comfortable, this cream also helps reduce redness and improve the appearance of the eye area, reducing fine lines and signs of fatigue.
If you’re looking for an anti-aging eye cream with sun protection that’s suitable for sensitive skin, try the Medik8 Advanced Day Eye Protect Age-Defying Eye Cream SPF30. With a lightweight and fragrance-free formula, this cream delivers protection against UVB/UVA radiation, combined with antioxidant moringa extract, anti-aging peptides, revitalizing caffeine, and brightening hesperidin. Also included in the formula is, of course, ectoin, which contributes to the protective effects of this eye cream, keeping the skin hydrated, smooth, and revitalized.
Ectoin sunscreens
The ISDIN FotoUltra 100 Solar Allergy Protect Sunscreen SPF50+ is a sunscreen specially designed for those who suffer from sun allergy. The key ingredient? 1% ectoin, for its ability to reinforce the skin’s natural protection mechanism and thus make it more resistant to UV aggression. The formula also contains barrier-repairing niacinamide, antioxidant vitamin E, and a complex of soothing ingredients that help relieve symptoms associated with sun allergy, such as itching and redness.
Designed for combination, oily, and acne-prone skin, the Bioderma Photoderm Cover Touch Mineral SPF50+ is a 100% mineral tinted sunscreen that offers three different benefits: protection, coverage, and sebum control. Its main goal, of course, is protection: while mineral sun filters protect the skin against UVB/UVA and visible light, the antioxidants in the formula (like vitamin E and, of course, our friend ectoin) fight off free radical damage.
Ectoin may not be one of the most talked-about skincare ingredients out there, but its benefits are plentiful, especially for those with sensitive skin: whether you’re looking to repair a disrupted skin barrier or manage sun allergy on the daily, ectoin may be a valuable addition to your skincare routine!
