Hydroxyectoin
What Hydroxyectoin is & what it does
Hydroxyectoin is a hydroxylated derivative of ectoine, a natural amino acid compound produced by microorganisms that thrive in extreme environments. In skincare it is used as a humectant and protective osmolyte, helping bind water and stabilize cells against stress from dryness and environmental factors. It is water-soluble and typically used at low percentages in hydrating and soothing products. It is not a UV filter and carries no flagged concerns.
What is Hydroxyectoin?
Hydroxyectoin is a hydroxylated form of ectoine, a protective amino acid compound made by microbes that live in extreme conditions. In skincare it acts as a humectant and protective osmolyte.
What does Hydroxyectoin do in skincare?
It helps bind water and stabilize skin cells against stress from dryness and the environment, so it is used in hydrating and soothing products at low percentages.
Is Hydroxyectoin safe?
It is generally considered gentle and well tolerated, and no concerns are flagged for it here. It is mainly valued for hydration and comfort.
Sunscreens with Hydroxyectoin
We rate 4 sunscreens that contain it:
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Kate Somerville Hydrakate Illuminating Sunscreen SPF 50+ Drops
71/100
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Kate Somerville Daily Deflector Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30 Pa++++
71/100
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Tula Protect + Glow Daily Sunscreen Gel Broad Spectrum Spf 30
69/100
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Wardah Crystallure Supreme Revitalizing Rich Cream 35 Pa+++
64/100