Every month something new is heralded as being a skincare “wonder ingredient”, and it can make the task of choosing your products seem overwhelming. Not all skincare ingredients are suitable for all skin types, and not all are as miraculous as marketers portray them to be. However, every now and then a buzzy ingredient proves itself to the science community and sticks around—just look at the likes of hyaluronic acid and retinol. The latest skincare ingredient du jour? Ectoin—and it's actually worth knowing about.
Ectoin is a powerful compound that performs several different functions that optimise skin health, hydration and glow. Trust me—by the end of this article I guarantee you’ll have added an ectoin serum, moisturiser or face mist to your basket.
A huge reason I love it is because it can be found in products at all price points, meaning you can benefit from its soothing, hydrating properties in affordable skincare products too. And, while ectoin isn't a new discovery, the current surge in ectoin skincare products suggests you’re going to be hearing a lot about it in 2025.
To help get to the bottom of what ectoin is, what ectoin skincare products actually do and why they're so great, I’ve spoken to some of my go-to skincare experts—aesthetic doctor Dr David Jack, GP and aesthetician Dr Ahmed El Muntasar and board-certified dermatologist Dr Shereene Idriss M.D.. So, keep reading to see how it can benefit you, and to discover my favourite ectoin skincare products.
What Is Ectoin?
“Ectoin is a little bit of a hybrid wonder molecule,” says Dr Jack. “It is a natural molecule made by bacterial ‘extremophiles’, i.e. organisms that thrive in harsh environments. It has garnered a lot of attention recently in the realm of skincare for its remarkable protective and restorative properties. Discovered in the late 1980s, ectoin functions as an ‘extremolyte’, meaning it shields delicate cellular structures from environmental stressors such as UV radiation, pollution and temperature fluctuations,” he adds.
What Does Ectoin Do for the Skin?
Let's start with ectoin’s protective capabilities. “[They] lie in its ability to stabilise cell membranes and proteins, preventing damage from oxidative stress and inflammation. As a result, ectoin helps to reduce the appearance of fine lines, improve hydration and soothe irritated or compromised skin,” says Dr Jack.
Dr Idriss also adds that ectoin is a great hydrator that soothes while it works. “It's super-soothing, so if you have sensitive skin or conditions like rosacea or eczema, it helps calm inflammation and reduce redness. On top of that, it’s amazing for hydration, locking in moisture and supporting your skin’s natural barrier to keep it soft and supple,” she says.
Is Ectoin Better Than Hyaluronic Acid?
While hyaluronic acid and ectoin both hydrate and help to strengthen the skin barrier, as ingredients they do deliver different results. “Ectoin is more protective and anti-inflammatory than hydrating, and it also strengthens the skin barrier for more long-lasting resilience,” says Dr Ahmed El Muntasar.
Dr Idriss agrees. “Ectoin goes a step further by not only helping with hydration but also providing a protective shield against environmental stressors, whereas hyaluronic acid focuses more on providing immediate hydration by binding water to the skin,” she says.
Hyaluronic acid is more highly regarded for its plumping results due to this water-binding property. “Ectoin, while not a humectant in the same way, works by creating a ‘water envelope’ around cells and proteins, maintaining hydration levels and preventing trans-epidermal water loss,” explains Dr Jack. “What sets ectoin apart from hyaluronic acid is its double function: it not only hydrates but also has strong antioxidant properties—providing protection for cells against environmental stressors such as UV, oxidative stress and fluctuations in pH.’
So, does this make ectoin better than hyaluronic acid? Dr El Muntasar explains that it’s not just a case of replacing your hyaluronic acid products with ectoin products. “Ectoin can’t be relied on as the only hydrator in a skincare routine. A lot of people would need ectoin in addition to another hydrator to ensure that the skin is nice and hydrated,” he says. So, if you have both in your routine (or in the same product), you’re on to a winner.
How Do You Apply Ectoin?
“You’ll typically find ectoin in serums, moisturisers, face mists, or even sunscreens. Any of which is a great way to incorporate it into your routine,” says Dr Idriss. “To get the most bang for your buck, [look for ectoin products] with other ingredients that complement it.” Vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, ceramides and peptides are good examples of these complimentary ingredients.
Dr Jack advises, “It is best to use on cleansed skin prior to applying your sunscreen for maximal benefit. Since ectoin is gentle and well tolerated, it can be used twice daily and layered with other active ingredients, for example retinoids in the evening or vitamin C in the morning.”
Is Ectoin Suitable for All Skin Types?
More good news: ectoin really is one for everyone and is universally well-tolerated. “Whether you have dry, oily, or combination skin, ectoin helps strengthen your skin’s natural barrier and keeps it hydrated without clogging pores,” say Dr Idriss.
This, Dr Jack explains, makes it great for “reducing redness and irritation often associated with conditions like acne, rosacea and eczema.” But, to be honest, everyone can benefit from its barrier-boosting properties.
The 12 Best Ectoin Skincare Products
1. 111 Skin Y Theorem Bio Cellulose Facial Masks
111 Skin
Y Theorem Bio Cellulose Facial Masks
111 Skin sheet masks are adored far and wide, but this formula is particular is a saviour for those with stressed, sensitive skin. Made of bio cellulose, the sheets fit like a second skin, and will soothe and hydrate like nobody's business.
Pros: Created by renowned Harley Street cosmetic surgeon, Dr. Yannis Alexandrides, they are packed full of soothing and hydrating ingredients.
Cons: They are pricey, but think of them like a facial in a box.
Customer Review: “I got this as a present from a friend who swears by this. I had seen this previously, but thought it was just overhyped, hence the price. I WAS WRONG. This is as good as it claims and worth every penny. My skin glows after and feels hydrated, tight and fresh. The effect lasts even into the next day. I would recommend to leave it in the fridge before use—you'll get an extra cooling sensation!”
2. The Inkey List Ectoin Hydro-Barrier Serum
The Inkey List
Ectoin Hydro-Barrier Serum
This hydrating serum combines ectoin with hyaluronic acid for ultimate hydration. It's purse-friendly, so you don't really have any excuse not to try it out if your skin needs hydrating and soothing.
Pros: You can't get much more of a bargain than this. It also has an added ceramide complex to further help fortify your skin barrier to prevent moisture loss.
Cons: There isn't anything negative about this ingredient list or price, in my opinoin.
Customer Review: “This is such a lovely serum which leaves my skin feeling super hydrated and plump. I have very sensitive skin and this feels super soothing!”
3. Dr Dennis Gross Derminfusions Fill and Repair Serum
Dr Dennis Gross
Derminfusions Fill and Repair Serum
Another serum that combines both ectoin and hyaluronic acid for maximum hydration, with the added moisture boost of glycerin, too. There's also firming peptides, texture-refining niacinamide and soothing centella asiatica.
Pros: This serum has four different molecular weights of hyaluronic acid to penetrate deeply into the skin. It's designed to plump out lines and wrinkles and promote firmer skin over time— it does a great job.
Cons: It is pricey, but some of the before and after trial imagery is amazing.
Customer Review: “I bought this three weeks ago, and oh my goodness, the results are unbelievable.”
4. Summer Fridays Jet Lag Skin Soothing Hydration Mist
Summer Fridays
Jet Lag Skin Soothing Hydration Mist
Think of any soothing skincare ingredient and it will more than likely be in this mist. Ectoin, aloe, centella asiatica, allantoin, cucumber extract, panthenol, bisabolol… it's a veritable who's who of calming ingredients.
Pros: The soothing ingredient lineup in this has every big hitter. It also has ceramides and squalane to support the skin barrier and hydrate, as well as antioxidants and ingredients to protect the skin against external factors.
Cons: It is a fairly small bottle for a mist, and at a higher price point too. It does fit perfectly in a small handbag though.
Customer Review: “My skin gets so dry in the office in the winter. I bought this to spray over my makeup to get rid of that tight feeling. I love it so much. My face is no longer dry, and I don’t have to worry about it ruining my makeup!”
5. Allies of Skin Copper Tripeptide & Ectoin Advanced Repair Serum
Allies of Skin
Copper Tripeptide & Ectoin Advanced Repair Serum
Ready for stronger, more resilient skin? This serum not only soothes the skin and promotes skin recovery, it also helps will multiple signs of ageing and reduces redness. Ecotin is just one of many very effective and impressive ingredients in its INCI list.
Pros: It has multiple peptide and amino acid complexes to improve skin density and firmness, as well as hydrating glycerin and soothing panthenol too.
Cons: You might want to take a seat before you have a look at the price.
Customer Review: “I've been using this for a couple of months now and my skin hasn't felt so healthy before. Even using a strong retinoid isn't upsetting my skin. Love that this works so well. Another gamechanger from Allies of Skin.”
6. Kate Somerville Delikate Recovery Serum
Kate Somerville
Delikate Recovery Serum
This light, milky gel serum feels instantly soothing and hydrating. Great for stressed skin, or skin that has just undergone an aesthetics treatment. It's full of ingredients that calm the skin and support the skin barrier, like ectoin, cucumber seed oil and omega ceramides.
Pros: As well as ectoin, hydration comes from an antioxidant-rich plant that's native to Australia—Tasmannia lanceolate fruit extract.
Cons: It's up there price-wise, but it is relief in a bottle.
Customer Review: “Wow! My Rosacea has been flaring up for several months. My cheeks were red and I had scabby plaques and acne-like bumps. Nothing worked. I bought the DeliKate serum and moisturiser on a lark. Less than a week later, my cheeks are almost back to normal. Seriously good product.”
7. Byoma Barrier+ Treatment
I honestly can't rave about Byoma enough. The brand's products rival many that are 10 times the price. This intensive moisturiser is no exception. Not only does it deeply moisturise, it soothes the skin and fortifies the skin barrier too.
Pros: Packed full of ingredients that hydrate, draw moisture to the skin, lock that moisture in and relieve irritated skin. Simple, but effective—and barrier-friendly too.
Cons: There's nothing to complain about here. Slather it on!
Customer Review: “A deeply nourishing treatment that strengthens the skin barrier, boosts hydration and helps restore a healthy, balanced complexion. Perfect for dry or sensitive skin.”
8. Sarah Chapman R&R Glow Recovery Cream
Sarah Chapman
R&R Glow Recovery Cream
This intensive, buttery moisturiser is designed to relieve and restore dry, sensitive skin. If you have a damaged skin barrier from an aesthetics treatment, skin condition or overuse of retinol, this is for you. It moisturises, relieves irritation and itchiness and comforts like a big duvet for your face.
Pros: Clinically proven to reduce redness by 50% within one hour and reduce irritation by 70% within 24 hours.
Cons: The price is up there, but with those clinical results, I can see why.
Customer Review: “This product saved my skin. This product took away my redness so quickly and stopped my skin from itching—something I have ALWAYS suffered with! Super calming product and it made my skin feel soft and gave me a very healthy glow. Will be a staple in my kit and a product I would recommend for anyone suffering with a damaged skin barrier.”
9. Glow Recipe Blackberry Retinol Blemish Serum
Glow Recipe
Blackberry Retinol Blemish Serum
This isn't one for sensitive skin but is one for those who normally experience some retinol side effects. Its potent triple-retinoid blend is offset with hydrating and soothing ingredients, like ectoin and glycerin. There's even blackberry extract in there—an antioxidant that supports the skin’s healing process for a stronger skin barrier.
Pros: It's a great one for acne or blemish-prone skin due to its clarifying benefits. 97% of consumer trial participants agree this serum is gentle enough to use every night.
Cons: It's one for those who are already retinol/retinoid users, rather than beginners.
Customer Review: “I wanted to take time to really use this product before reviewing… and three months in, I love it. Definitely has the retinol ‘sting’ if you’re not used to actives—but is very gentle and has given me a nice, gradual improvement. Skin texture is smooth. I was able to drop my acne serum, and I’m starting to see a little improvement on fine lines. Excited to keep using.:
10. Dr Jart+ Ceramidin Ectoin-Infused Cream
Dr Jart+
Ceramidin Ectoin-Infused Cream
Dr Jart+'s Ceramidin line has been one of my go-tos when my skin barrier is compromised for many, many years now. This one has the added benefit of ectoin on top of all those ceramides and emollients to make it extra soothing.
Pros: A great all-rounder—shea butter and argan oil condition and moisturise, ectoin calms and hydrates and ceramides fortify the skin barrier.
Cons: At £56 there are some alternatives that are also effective for a third of the price. (I'm looking at you Byoma.) However, this buttery texture is something else!
Customer Review: “This is my favourite moisturiser for my dry skin (now on my third tub). It provides instant relief and noticeably helps my skin barrier. Lovely and thick, but still sits nicely under makeup.”
11. Hourglass Equilibrium Restoring Essence
Hourglass
Equilibrium Restoring Essence
I love an essence in my routine, and I totally view it as an essential step in my glass skin routine. This one hydrates and soothes, while also boosting radiance.
Pros: Hourglass' Amnio Youth Lipids Complex helps replenish the skin's optimum moisture levels. Glycerin and ectoin also boost hydration and soothe.
Cons: You can get just as soothing essences for less money. They don't have ectoin in them though, so if you want to add it into an existing routine you love, this would be a great add-on.
Customer Review: “I didn’t think I really needed an essence before this Hourglass one. I’ve been using it over the past couple of months. It’s gentle on my skin, and my skin responded well to it. My lines look smoother and my skin feels softer.”
12. Dermalogica Powerbright Dark Spot Serum
Dermalogica
Powerbright Dark Spot Serum
Not one for sensitive skin but one that's designed for those who experience side effects with the use of actives such as brightening acids. This is an AHA and PHA dark spot serum that counteracts some of the harsher side effects of the actives, with calming ingredients like ectoin and hydrating ingredients like squalane.
Pros: Clinical trials have proven that you'll see a reduction in dark spot intensity after only a week.
Cons: It's pricey, but powerful.
Customer Review: “Only been using this a couple of weeks, but it definitely works! Dark spots already looking less noticeable. Love it!”
