Ectoin may not be as well-known as skincare staples like Vitamin C or niacinamide, but this little ingredient packs a big skincare punch. It has powerful protective properties that help safeguard your skin from everyday damage and keep it looking healthy and youthful. We’ll explore exactly what ectoin does, how it works, and how you can incorporate this youth-boosting ingredient into your skincare routine.
What does ectoin do for your skin?
Ectoin is a powerful antioxidant with a unique ability to protect your skin from “oxidative damage” on a cellular level. What is oxidative damage, you ask? Good question! Oxidative damage comes from free radicals, which are unstable molecules that harm your skin cells and lead to wrinkles, dark spots, sagging and inflammation.
Sunlight, pollution, harsh weather conditions, and blue light from digital devices all generate free radicals in the skin—leading to oxidative damage. Ectoin helps counteract the effects of free radicals and the oxidative damage they cause.
How does ectoin work in skincare?
Experts explain that ectoin is what’s known as an “extremolyte.” It’s a small molecule that helps protect microorganisms that live in the most extreme weather conditions—think hot springs, polar ice caps, the deepest depths of the sea, and harsh deserts. (Fun fact: Ectoin was discovered in 1985, in a microorganism living in a salt lake in the Egyptian desert.)
Ectoin creates protective complexes in these microorganisms that reduce oxidative damage and cellular inflammation—and allow them to survive in the harshest of conditions. Think of like a “cellular bodyguard.”
In skincare, ectoin has a similar protective effect, and it’s been proven in research studies to prevent cellular damage and premature photoaging. “Ectoin works to provide a protective shield for the skin,” explains NYC board-certified dermatologist Marisa Garshick in Allure magazine. “By protecting against external stressors, it also offers protection against blue light and pollution.”
The Benefits of Ectoin for Skin Health
Skin barrier protection: As we just learned, Ectoin acts like a shield for your skin, boosting your skin barrier and safeguarding your skin cells from daily stressors like pollution, UV rays, and blue light.
Hydration and moisture balance: Ectoin binds to water molecules in your skin and helps to maintain long-lasting hydration. This improves your skin’s elasticity (giving it a youthful bounce) and helps prevent dryness and flakes.
Dark spot and wrinkle reduction: By reducing oxidative stress and stabilizing skin cells, ectoin helps to counteract signs of aging such as dark spots, fine lines and wrinkles, and skin laxity.
Soothing sensitive skin: Dermatologists say ectoin is an ideal ingredient for those with sensitive, reactive or redness-prone skin types, because of its ability to calm irritation and reduce inflammation.
What are the best skincare products with ectoin?
Serums, toners and moisturizers formulated with ectoin are all great ways to incorporate this powerful antioxidant into your skincare routine. We included ectoin in our HYDRAFLASH Active Cocooning Serum and Botanical Ketoacid Toner so you don’t have to think twice about including ectoin in your daily skincare regimen.
Do I need SPF if I’m using ectoin?
This is another good question…and answer is yes, you do! While ectoin does deliver protection against UV rays and blue light, you still need the additional defense that sunscreen provides. “You still need to wear your daily SPF,” confirms licensed esthetician Billie Bond. “That’s non-negotiable. But layering a product with ectoin underneath will help increase your protection against blue light and other causes of skin damage.”
Should I add ectoin to my skincare routine?
In conclusion, it’s a great idea to add ectoin to your daily skincare routine. This protective molecule helps prevent signs of premature aging and gives you skin the ability to stay younger and healthier looking. Sign us up!
