What is Ectoin and What are Its Skin Benefits? Uses in Skincare & Cosmetics + Top Products

Overview

Ectoin is an amino acid-derived ingredient that functions as both an emollient and as a pH adjuster.

As an emollient, ectoin serves to make the skin appear softer and give it a smoother look. As a pH adjuster, ectoin also reduces the pH to make the overall product more acidic.

Additionally, there are claims that ectoin has anti-aging effects, such as reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Other claims state that ectoin can protect against harmful agents in the environment, such as pollution and fine particles. This is allegedly done by improving the hydration of the skin.

However, more research needs to be done before these claims are proven.

Ratings

Reported efficacy

Wrinkle reduction

-7%

vs. benchmark (Tretinoin 0.05%)

-15%

Strength of evidence

Study 1

Study 2

Anti-wrinkle power

2.5

Creamscan anti-wrinkle rating is a weighted result of 2 parts:

Reported Efficacy: This measures the ingredient's ability to reduce wrinkles, confirmed by a double-blind, vehicle-controlled, randomized study. We compare the results reported in the study against a gold standard anti-wrinkle benchmark, 0.05% Tretinoin, to calculate a 0-10 efficacy score for the reviewed ingredient.

Strength of Evidence: This reflects how thoroughly an ingredient has been researched. While there are many studies on cosmetic ingredients, very few are robust, vehicle-controlled clinical trials on humans.

Each study meeting CreamScan Research Evaluation Standards earns the ingredient 5 points. An ingredient with just one qualifying study receives a score of 5 out of 10 for Strength of Evidence. To achieve a perfect score of 10 out of 10, an ingredient must have at least two studies confirming its efficacy from different research teams.

Ectoin

Overview

Ratings

Science

Products with Ectoin