Which cosmetic products contain ectoine?

Theectoine is derived from the amino acid aspartate, produced by bacteria through a fermentation process. It is safe to use, and is valued for its moisturizing and soothing properties for the skin. Ectoine is typically used in concentrations of 0.3 to 3.0% in cosmetics, which have been proven effective in studies. It is part of contemporary innovative actives and can be found in various cosmetic products.

• Moisturizing skin care.

  Theectoine is often found in moisturizing skin care products, particularly facial creams. Combined with butters and oils, it strengthens the skin barrier by forming a "second skin" that retains moisture, which contributes to the softening of dry skin. This effect can be explained by the ability of ectoine to accumulate water molecules around it, establishing hydrogen bonds. It is this characteristic that allows ectoine to preserve skin hydration and increase its water concentration.

• Soothing skin care.

  Indeed, ectoine can be found in soothing face creams. In these treatments, ectoine is used for its anti-inflammatory properties. It is believed to be capable of blocking pro-inflammatory signal cascades by stabilizing membrane structures. It then soothes feelings of discomfort, and when combined with plant oils such as thecamellia oil, it deeply nourishes the skin and prevents skin dryness caused by inflammation.

• Sun care and slowing down skin aging.

  Included in sunscreens in combination with UV filters or in creams and fluids to slow down skin aging, ectoine adds a layer of skin protection against the impact of UVA rays. Ectoine is capable of combating photoaging, which is skin aging caused by UV rays. Indeed, it is believed to increase the levels of antioxidant enzymes, whose function is to capture the free radicals produced by oxidative stress, itself caused by UV rays. This helps to limit radical skin damage, such as the alteration of collagen and elastin fibers, and thus skin aging.

• Brightening Care. Brightening masks containing ectoine are offered. The brightening action of ectoine is believed to be due to a decrease in the activity of tyrosinase and the melanotrope hormone (α-MSH), which are essential for the synthesis of melanin, resulting in a decrease in the amount of melanin and thus a reduction in hyperpigmentation.

• Protective hair care. Finally, theectoine is found in hair care products such as nourishing serums and foams to rebalance the scalp. In these products, ectoine provides hydration to the dry and sensitive scalp, and prevents dandruff formation, by strengthening the skin's natural barrier through its water molecule-binding properties.