What Is Ectoin?
Ectoin, also referred to as ectoine, is an amino acid derivative that acts as a high-end, clinically proven active ingredient to help protect skin from dehydration and various external stressors such as free radicals, air pollution, and climate concerns and promote skin barrier improvements.
Its multi-functional activity has been clinically proven to show skin barrier protection from pollution and light as well as optimizing skin hydration and delivering soothing benefits to the skin. Ectoin is essentially an ingredient that does it all.
What Type Of Skin Is Ectoin Best For?
Ectoine is great for all skin types. This gentle non-irritating ingredient is suitable for even sensitive skin. It can be used in a number of applications and is especially useful in supporting and improving the skin barrier because of its ability to calm inflammation and prevent transdermal water loss.
What is Niacinamide?
Niacinamide or, nicotinamide, is the most common form of Vitamin B3 used in cosmetic products. Niacinamide has low molecular weight and is a water-soluble vitamin. It helps to rebuild a lipid layer. All skin types, including sensitive skin, can benefit from this stable B3 vitamin.
As we age, the levels of crucial coenzymes cells in our skin decrease, resulting in increased oxidative stress and reduction in skin health. By replenishing these cofactors, niacinamide provides a therapeutic boost, resulting in a myriad of skin benefits. It is important to know that you do not need to be niacin deficient or low on NAD(H) to see the skin benefits of niacinamide.
What Type Of Skin Is Niacinamide Best For?
Niacinamide is suitable for all skin types. Depending on concentration Niacinamide can have some oil-regulation properties, and its brightening properties make it a popular ingredient in treating post-inflammatory hyper-pigmentation and internally produced discoloration. It is an ideal ingredient for those looking to refine their skin texture and even their skin tone, including people with acne-prone skin and those seeking to improve signs of aging such as fine lines, wrinkles, and age spots.
Is Ectoin or Niacinamide Better for Skin Barrier Repair?
Both ectoin and niacinamide support the skin barrier - though they work differently to do so. Ectoin supports the skin barrier by binding moisture to the skin and creating a film on the skin that prevents water loss. Niacinamide helps to facilitate the production of ceramides and elastin, two critical parts of the skin barrier; it helps support the skin's natural shield.
Is Ectoin or Niacinamide Better for Dry Skin?
For dry skin, ectoin reigns supreme because of its ability to both draw moisture to the skin and prevent moisture loss. Ectoin also works uniquely well with other hydrating ingredients such hyaluronic acid and glycerin to deliver a super-dose of moisture - such as in our Multi-Quench Plumping Hydration Serum. To benefit from both ectoin and niacinamide, we recommend layering our brightening and firming Lucent-C Brightening Vitamin C Serum with our calming and hydrating Multi-Quench Plumping Hydration Serum.
Is Ectoin or Niacinamide Better for Improving Skin Tone?
Niacinamide wins overall for improving uneven skin tone and mild discoloration. With regular use, it can reduce the appearance of skin imperfections and brighten the skin by preventing the transfer of pigment within the skin. This is a unique mechanism of action so niacinamide pairs well with other skin brightening ingredients to provide added or even synergistic results.
DISCLAIMER: All skin care articles are intended to help educate on specific ingredients and skin care topics. Our articles are written to be informative and informational. Any reference to a specific patient experience is not a medical suggestion for treatment. Please note that any Prequel products with referenced ingredients are formulated for Cosmetic Use Only and NOT intended as replacements for physician advice and/or pharmaceutical product recommendations.
