NIKOO Chemical - Skincare Raw Material Supply and Custom Solution Specialist for 15 years.

Ectoin – The Natural Cell Protectant for Barrier Repair, Deep Hydration & Photoaging Prevention

2026-04-22

A powerful extremolyte that forms a protective hydration shell – clinically proven to increase skin moisture, reduce UV‑induced sunburn cells by 80‑90%, and improve fine lines.

Ectoin – The Natural Cell Protectant for Barrier Repair, Deep Hydration & Photoaging Prevention 1

Product Overview:
Ectoin (INCI: Ectoin, CAS 96702‑03‑3) is a natural amino acid derivative first discovered in 1985 in the outer cell layer of halophilic bacteria living in Egypt’s desert salt lakes. These bacteria survive extreme heat, high salinity, and intense UV radiation – thanks to ectoin. When applied to human skin, ectoin creates a protective, water‑ordering hydration shell around cells, enzymes, and proteins. This shell stabilises biomolecules, prevents water loss, and shields skin from environmental stressors such as UV, pollution, and allergens.

**Key Benefits at a Glance:**
Benefit	Description
💧 Deep, long‑lasting hydration	Increases skin moisture dose‑dependently (0.5% & 1.0%). Effect persists 7 days after stopping use – 1.5× higher than placebo
🛡️ Barrier repair	Strengthens the skin’s natural protective layer, reducing TEWL and improving resilience
☀️ UV protection	Reduces UVB‑induced sunburn cells by 80‑90% (4% ectoin, organotypic skin model)
🧬 Protects Langerhans cells	0.5% ectoin fully protects these vital immune cells from UV damage
✨ Anti‑wrinkle efficacy	0.5% ectoin cream significantly improved crow’s feet in 28 days (vs. placebo)
🌿 Anti‑inflammatory	Reduces inflammatory mediators (ICAM‑1, AP‑2) triggered by UVA
🔬 Stable & easy to formulate	pH range 1‑9, heat‑stable, water‑soluble

**Proven Efficacy Data:**
Study	Result
Hydration (in vivo, 12 days)	0.5% ectoin → +15‑20% hydration; 1.0% ectoin → +30‑40% hydration. After 7 days without product, hydration remained 1.5× higher than placebo
UV protection (organotypic skin)	4% ectoin reduced sunburn cell formation by 80‑90% at 100‑300 mJ/cm² UVB
Langerhans cell protection	0.5% ectoin completely protected these immune cells from UV‑induced damage
Anti‑wrinkle (human, 28 days)	0.5% ectoin cream visibly reduced crow’s feet compared to placebo
Barrier function	Reduces TEWL, improves skin’s defence against chemicals and bacteria

Technical Specifications:

Parameter	Value
INCI Name	Ectoin
CAS No.	96702‑03‑3
Molecular formula	C₆H₁₀N₂O₂
Molecular weight	142.16
Appearance	White crystalline powder
Purity	≥98%
Solubility	Soluble in water, glycerin, butylene glycol
pH range (formulation)	1 – 9 (stable)
Heat stability	Can be added during hot process
Recommended dosage	0.2 – 3.0%

Formulation Guidelines:

Addition method: Add to water phase; stir until dissolved. Can be added at any stage (heat‑stable).
Compatibility: Slightly ionic – in ion‑sensitive systems, consider thickening adjustment.
Applications:
- Barrier repair creams & serums
- After‑sun / photoaging care
- Anti‑wrinkle & firming products
- Moisturising lotions & masks
- Sensitive skin / eczema care
- Daily UV protection boosters

Packaging & Storage:

Packaging: 1 kg, 5 kg, 25 kg (depending on supplier).
Storage: Keep in clean, dry, dark place. For long‑term storage, refrigerate at 4°C.
Shelf life: 36 months unopened.
Microbial limits: Total bacteria <100 cfu/g; yeast/mould <10 cfu/g; no pathogens.
Heavy metals: Pb ≤10 ppm.