Ectoin: The "Hardcore Repairer" in Skincare, From Salt Lake Bacteria to Skin Shield

In 1985, scientist Galinski discovered a halophilic bacterium in the salt lakes of Egypt’s desert. It survives extreme conditions like high temperature, high salinity, and intense UV radiation—thanks to ectoin (tetrahydromethylpyrimidine carboxylic acid) produced on its cell surface. This cyclic amino acid derivative is a "natural protector": it binds water molecules to form a stable hydration shell (like a "shield" for cells), stays stable at pH 1-9 and below 190°C, and has a shelf life of up to 4 years, making it ideal for skincare development.

Ectoin’s skincare abilities are "all-round": A Bitop (Germany) experiment showed that after 12 consecutive days of using products containing 0.5%-1% ectoin, skin moisture remained high even 7 days after stopping use—its long-lasting moisturizing power surpasses ordinary humectants. It also protects Langerhans cells (key to skin immunity), reducing damage to the skin barrier from UV rays and irritating ingredients. A 2004 Merck study further confirmed it inhibits UVA-induced photoaging and reduces wrinkle formation.

Today, ectoin has become a core ingredient in repair-focused skincare. As an enterprise focusing on skincare OEM/ODM, INTE integrates ectoin into customized formulas when serving brand clients, optimizing production processes based on its stability to help brands create effective repair products for sensitive or outdoor-exposed skin—turning this "gift from salt lakes" into real skin protection.