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Ectoin probably isn’t a skincare ingredient you’re familiar with. But you will be soon, now that it’s becoming the industry’s next hottest ingredient.
Skincare enthusiasts are always on the lookout for the next breakthrough ingredient that will transform their skin. One such ingredient that has been making waves in the skincare world is ectoin. This naturally occurring substance has been found to have many benefits for the skin, making it a popular choice for skincare products.
Ahead, we explore what ectoin is, its safety for skin, and five of its benefits.
What is Ectoin?
If you're well-versed in skincare ingredients, you may have come across amino acids and their benefits. Peptides, for instance, are short chains of amino acids that are highly praised for their skincare benefits. Another amino acid that has been gaining attention in recent years is Ectoin, which was discovered in 1985. Despite being derived from various types of bacteria, Ectoin is actually a beneficial ingredient for the skin.
According to board-certified dermatologist Shereene Idriss, MD, Ectoin is a bacteria-derived extremolyte that is extracted from extremophilic microorganisms. Extremolytes are compounds that protect cellular integrity under extreme weather conditions. These conditions include salinity, pH, drought, temperature, and irradiation.
Ectoin is a small molecule that has the ability to bind to water molecules and create complexes that form protective, nourishing, and stabilizing hydration shells around cells, enzymes, proteins, and other biomolecules. These hydration shells shield the skin from harsh environmental stressors, ensuring that the skin remains healthy and hydrated.
Is Ectoin Safe For Skin?
Ectoin has been extensively studied for its safety in skincare products, and it has been found to be safe for use on the skin. It is non-irritating and non-sensitizing, which makes it suitable for use on all skin types, including sensitive skin. Ectoin is also biodegradable and environmentally friendly, which makes it a great choice for eco-conscious consumers.
5 Benefits of Ectoin For Skin
Wondering what the benefits are of this active ingredient?
Ectoin Reduces Inflammation
Ectoin has anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe irritated skin. It can help reduce redness and inflammation caused by conditions like eczema, rosacea, and psoriasis. Ectoin also helps to protect the skin from environmental stressors like pollution and UV rays, which can cause inflammation and damage to the skin.
Ectoin Hydrates the Skin
Ectoin is a natural moisturizer that optimizes skin hydration and prevents dryness. It forms a protective layer on the skin that helps to prevent moisture loss, keeping the skin soft and supple. Ectoin also helps to improve the skin's barrier function, which further enhances its ability to retain moisture while supporting skin barrier repair.
Ectoin Fights Aging
Ectoin has been found to have anti-aging benefits for the skin. It helps to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles by protecting the skin from environmental stressors that can accelerate the aging process. Ectoin also helps to boost collagen production and improve the skin's elasticity, making it look more youthful and radiant. Its ability to prevent uva-induced premature photoaging makes it a powerful and promising anti-aging ingredient.
Ectoin Soothes Sunburn
Ectoin has been shown to have a soothing effect on sunburned skin. It helps to reduce redness and inflammation caused by UV radiation, and it also helps to speed up the healing process. Ectoin can be a great ingredient to look for in after-sun products.
Ectoin Protects Against Environmental Stress
When Ectoin is applied to the skin, it has the ability to bind to water molecules and create complexes that form a protective hydration shell around cells, enzymes, proteins, and other biomolecules. This hydration shell acts as a barrier, shielding the skin from external stressors such as UV radiation, extreme temperatures, and pollution.
How to Use Ectoin in Your Skincare Routine
Ectoin is not only an effective ingredient on its own, but it also works synergistically with other skincare ingredients to enhance their benefits. In fact, Ectoin is highly compatible with almost every skin-care formula, making it a versatile ingredient in skincare products.
Some ingredients it play nicely with include hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and ceramides, as well as antioxidants like vitamin C and E. It also pairs perfectly with retinol, AHAs, and BHAs, and even mitigates side effects associated with these actives such as redness, dryness, and irritation.
While ectoin does a great job at providing stress-protection and protecting against oxidative stress, dermatologists still recommend following up with sunscreen after applying your ectoin formulation.
Is Ectoin the New Niacinamide?
Niacinamide has long been a popular ingredient in skincare products due to its many benefits for the skin. While ectoin does not have the same range of benefits as niacinamide, it does offer unique benefits that make it a great addition to any skincare routine. Ectoin is particularly effective at protecting the skin from environmental stressors, making it a great choice for those who are concerned about pollution and UV radiation.
Shop Niacinamide Skincare Products
Since we’re in the early days of ectoin, you won’t find this magical ingredient in any of the Rainbow products just yet. However, you can still reap a number of its benefits from niacinamide. She’s basically like a sister! Here are some of our faves:
Smooth Body Scrub
A a luxurious exfoliating treatment that combines the anti-aging benefits of strawberry and niacinamide. This potent blend deeply hydrates, firms sagging skin, and buffs away rough texture for a silky-smooth finish. Its rejuvenating formula is enriched with alpha-hydroxy acids found in strawberries, which soothe inflammation, enhance skin radiance, and slow down visible signs of aging. The scrub's high-grade sea salt base retexturizes the skin, reduces dryness, and reveals a fresh, hydrated glow.
Smooth Body Serum
A silky and fast absorbing formula that harnesses the power of anti-aging ingredients like strawberry and niacinamide. Designed to combat UV damage, fine line formation, and sagging skin, this potent serum deeply hydrates and nourishes the skin. Its unique blend of ingredients includes niacinamide, which regulates oil production and promotes the production of keratin, a protein that keeps the skin firm, youthful, and healthy.
Ectoin is getting hotter by the moment. While it’s not widespread just yet, we’re sure we’ll see it popping up in serums, masks, and lotions very soon!