Active ingredient Ectoin: Anti-aging star from nature

© Jill Burrow

Clinically proven: Ectoin promotes the repair of the skin barrier

November 22, 2024

Birgitta Dunckel

  • Beauty

Active ingredient Ectoin: Anti-aging star from nature

Smoother, younger skin: Ectoin provides moisture, soothes inflammation, and balances the microbiome.

What is Ectoin?

The use of Ectoin in skincare is relatively new. The natural active ingredient was discovered where life is actually not possible: In the salt desert of the Egyptian Sahara. There, scientists found microorganisms that defied these extreme environmental conditions: Purple bacteria.

Research then showed that the multifunctional amino acid L-Ectoin, which the bacteria form in very high concentrations in the cell plasma, enabled life in such a harsh environment. Only thanks to this amino acid did the bacteria withstand extreme dryness, strong sunlight, and high salt concentration. Because the hydrating Ectoin forms a protective, very stable water layer around the cell, shielding it from hostile environmental influences.


Anti-aging power: Ectoin as a protective shield for human skin

Many scientifically based studies show that the molecule obtained from bacteria also works as a cream or serum on human skin and mucosa, and the active ingredient is a high performer and multitasker in both cosmetic and medical skin care:

  • Ectoin binds – like hyaluronic acid – water molecules and increases moisture in the skin cells. As a result, it has a wrinkle-reducing, smoothing, and regenerating effect. It stabilizes the skin barrier and helps the skin retain bound moisture in the long term.
  • Ectoin strengthens the natural protective function of the cells. Internal and external stressors are kept in check, the negative effects of UV radiation are reduced, and environmentally-induced skin aging is prevented. The cell membranes are stabilized. An added anti-aging effect.
  • The active ingredient ectoin has anti-inflammatory properties. This can help with pimples, sensitive skin, or conditions like rosacea, psoriasis, and atopic dermatitis. It soothes irritated and already damaged skin and strengthens the skin barrier.
  • Clinical studies have shown that the use of ectoin can lead to a long-lasting improvement in skin condition. Skin elasticity, wrinkle volume, and skin texture were among the aspects examined.

Austrian natural skincare brand Susanne Kaufmann has now launched a new product with this active ingredient called the "Ectoin Repair Serum." "I've been using ectoin in my care formulas for almost 15 years. I wanted to incorporate this incredible ingredient into a special, powerful serum. Combined with Q10, my new regenerating ectoin serum repairs and protects against free radicals and environmental influences," says Susanne Kaufmann.


Care products with Ectoin

The most advanced innovation from Susanne Kaufmann to date: the Ectoin Repair Serum

Also used as a therapy accompaniment for neurodermatitis: Ectoin Anti-Aging Fluid by Dadosens

Calms & Protects: Evolve Pro + Ectoin Soothing Cream


From eye drops to nasal spray: Ectoin in medicine

Ectoin is used for the accompanying symptomatic treatment of skin diseases. It naturally alleviates inflammation, redness, and itching – without cortisone. Additionally, nasal sprays and eye drops are available to relieve symptoms of dry nose and dry eyes because the active ingredient soothes sensitive mucous membranes and prevents cracks and inflammation. As an inhalation solution, Ectoin moisturizes and soothes the airways in case of cold symptoms, dry cough, hay fever, and allergic asthma.

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