Why Ectoin is the Cutting-Edge Skincare Ingredient You Need to Try

Ectoin in skincare  is having a moment. And it’s much deserved. Although chemists have known about this molecule since 1985, it’s only now getting its due as the powerhouse ingredient that it is.

We love ectoin for its unmatched ability to protect as well as strengthen and hydrate your skin. (In fact, we use it in our Squalane + Copper Peptide Rapid Plumping Serum!)  Join us for an ingredient deep dive to learn how ectoin can benefit your skin.

What is Ectoin?

Think of ectoin as a bodyguard for your skin protecting it from environmental stressors such as blue light and pollution on a cellular level. And not only does ectoin protect your skin from physical and chemical damage, it can also shield it from the effects of stress and inflammation.

Ectoin is a type of short-chain amino acid called an “extremolyte.” Extremolytes are small organic molecules that protect cells under extreme conditions. Ectoin does this by binding with water to create a protective, nourishing hydration shield around cells. These protective properties enable ectoin to shield cells from chemical and physical damage, reducing oxidative stress and inflammation.

What Does Ectoin Do for the Skin?

Because it works by binding with water, ectoin provides these key benefits:

- Protects skin from physical and chemical stressors
- Strengthens and regulates the skin’s moisture barrier
- Improves elasticity
- Reduces inflammation
- Smooths rough and scaly skin
- Plumps fine lines and wrinkles
- Provides deep, lasting hydration

How to Incorporate Ectoin into Your Skincare Routine

Ectoin is a non-irritating ingredient suitable for every skin type. But as a moisture binder and barrier strengthener, people with dry and sensitive skin types and those with frequent sun exposure will experience its most dramatic benefits.

In addition, it’s a vast understatement to say that ectoin plays well with other skincare ingredients. The way this ingredient works in tandem with others is a skincare scientist’s dream. Not only does it enhance the efficacy of many moisturizers, it also shields the skin against irritation from active ingredients such as retinol, protecting against redness and irritation.

When choosing a skincare product with ectoin,  look to serums and moisturizers. Their water-based delivery systems will enable the ectoin to properly adhere to your skin cells.

Which Biossance Products Contain Ectoin?

Our bestselling Squalane + Copper Peptide Rapid Plumping Serum instantly plumps and quenches thanks in part to the water-binding properties of ectoin. We’ve paired this powerful, protective hydrator with our rapid plumping complex to deliver instant, long-lasting hydration alongside a dramatic improvement in elasticity thanks to copper peptides.

An Ectoin Skincare Layering Guide 

Here’s how to use ectoin in your daily routine using Biossance products.

Step One: Deeply cleanse without overstripping with our Squalane + Amino Aloe Gentle Cleanser. Pat Dry.

Step Two: Balance and prep by spritzing your skin with our Squalane + Hyaluronic Acid Facial Mist.

Step Three: Using your ring finger, tap a small amount of Squalane + Marine Algae Eye Cream onto the ocular bone beneath your eye to instantly lift while delivering deep and lasting hydration.

Step Four: Instantly plump and hydrate while protecting against environmental stressors with our ectoin-rich Squalane + Copper Peptide Rapid Plumping Serum.

Step Five: Deeply moisturize and boost elasticity with our Squalane + Omega Barrier Repair Cream.

Step Six: Lock in moisture and instantly brighten with our Squalane + Vitamin C Rose Oil.

AM ONLY: Protect your skin with our reef-safe Squalane + Zinc Sheer Mineral Sunscreen as the final step in your routine.