Ectoin (English version)
Ectoin – Cell-protecting stress protection molecule for sensitive & stressed skin
Ectoin protects against UV radiation, heat and environmental stress, strengthens the skin barrier and reduces irritation – ideal for sensitive, mature or inflamed skin.
Introduction / Brief description
Ectoin (INCI: Ectoin ) is a natural active ingredient with exceptional cell-protective and regenerating properties. It was discovered in 1985 in microorganisms that survive under extreme environmental conditions in salt lakes in the Egyptian desert. As a so-called "stress protection molecule," ectoin protects these organisms from dryness, UV radiation, heat, and oxidation—it also exerts the same protective effect in skin care.
Origin & Production
Ectoin is obtained through the fermentation of microorganisms using a biotechnological process. These microbes originate from extremophilic habitats such as saline lakes or desert soils. In natural cosmetics, ectoin is used in its pure, nature-identical form—free of synthetic additives and highly compatible with the skin.
Effect on skin and senses
Cell protection & anti-aging
Ectoin forms a protective hydrofilm of water molecules around skin cells, thus stabilizing cell membranes and DNA. It protects against free radicals, UV and infrared radiation, and other damaging environmental factors. Ectoin thus prevents photoaging and reduces micro-inflammation.
Moisture & Barrier Care
Ectoin has been proven to increase skin's moisture content, promote cell regeneration, and strengthen the lipid barrier. Skin appears smoother, more elastic, and more resilient—ideal for dry, mature, or barrier-damaged skin.
Soothing & anti-inflammatory
Ectoin has been proven to reduce redness, itching, and irritation. It is particularly suitable for the care of sensitive or inflammatory skin conditions such as acne, rosacea, eczema, or atopic dermatitis. The skin is visibly soothed and well-being improved.
Use in natural cosmetics
Ectoin is preferably used in:
- Regenerating anti-aging serums & creams
- Soothing care for sensitive or irritated skin
- After-sun products & formulations with cell protection function
- Care products against environmental stress, UV radiation or blue light
Special features / Who is it suitable for?
- ✔ For all skin types – especially sensitive, irritated or inflamed skin
- ✔ Ideal for acne, rosacea, neurodermatitis or light-induced skin aging
- ✔ Vegan, alcohol-free, fragrance-free & cruelty-free
- ✔ Very good skin tolerance – even with long-term use
Conclusion
Ectoin is an innovative natural active ingredient with comprehensive protective and caring effects: antioxidant, moisturizing, soothing, and regenerating. Thanks to its high tolerability, Ectoin is ideal for demanding, sensitive, or stressed skin—especially as a protective shield against environmental stress and for the prevention of premature skin aging.
Our natural cosmetics with Ectoin
Discover our fragrance-free eye serum with Ectoin – soothing, regenerating and ideal for sensitive or mature skin.
Ectoin Eye Serum
Further information on skin protection & cell regeneration:
