Ectoin - What is it and what does it do?

What is Ectoin?

Ectoin is a substance that is found in many bacteria, especially in large proportions in the so-called halophilic (salt-loving) species. It protects these bacteria against extreme conditions such as UV radiation, high salt concentrations or temperature fluctuations^[1].

Fig. 1 The Ectoin Zwitterion

What is Ectoin chemically ?

Ectoin is a so-called cyclic amino acid, i. It is a ring shaped amino acid. Dissolved as zwitterion, the carboxylic acid being negatively charged and one of the nitrogens positively charged. This property accounts for most of the effects of Ectoin. It has a strong hydratating effect, which is transferred to surrounding molecules, so u.a. on biopolymers such as proteins and the DNA. It does not bind itself, nor does it enter the cell itself, which does not interfere with metabolism^[2].

What are properties of Ectoin?

The Ectoin moisturizes through hydration, and stabilizes the structures of biopolymers. It is produced by fermentation (Fermantativ), with the help of Halomonas elongata bacteria. It is used in medicine for irritation and inflammation of the skin and mucous membranes to relieve them. It is also used in cosmetics to protect the skin from stress-related damage, e.g. UV radiation, drought or fine dust to protect. People with ectoin hypersensitivity should avoid using ectoin, otherwise side effects may occur with the exact opposite effect, including: strong burning on the skin. In biochemistry, ectoine is also used to obtain proteins, nucleic acids and other biopolymers [3].

What do ecto-containing cosmetics do and are they really helpful?

Kosmetika mit Ectoin können Falten mindern, und die Entstehung neuer vermeiden. Sie spendet der Haut Feuchtigkeit und schützt sie vor Umwelteinflüssen. Ebenfalls lindert Ectoin Hautreizungen und Entzündungen, ganz ohne in den Stoffwechsel einzugreifen. Jedoch sollten Menschen mit Ectoin Überempfindlichkeit Kosmetika mit Ectoin meiden. So empfiehlt sich vorab zu klären ob man eine solche Überempfindlichkeit aufweist, bevor man Ectoinhaltige Kosmetika verwendet. Weist man eine solche Überempfindlichkeit nicht auf, so hat Ectoin quasi keine Nachteile^[4].

Sources:

Wikipedia[1][4]

Scientific article on the cell-protecting properties of Ectoin^[2][3]