Ectoine (also written Ectoin, INCI: Ectoine, CAS 96702-03-3) is a natural
osmolyte produced by fermentation — a small, highly water-soluble molecule that has become one of the most
widely used protective actives in modern skincare. This guide covers where formulators use it, how much to use,
and what documentation European brands should expect from a supplier.
Why Formulators Use Ectoine
- Long-term hydration — supports moisture retention in leave-on formats such as serums, essences and creams.
- Environmental stress protection — commonly positioned in anti-pollution and urban-defence products.
- Compatibility with sensitive skin lines — often paired with soothing and barrier ingredients.
- Easy to formulate — it dissolves readily in water, so it fits aqueous and emulsion systems without special processing.
Main Applications in Cosmetic Formulation
- Leave-on skincare: serums, essences, gels, creams and masks for sustained hydration.
- Anti-pollution / urban defence: day creams and mists marketed around environmental protection.
- Sensitive and reactive skin: moisturisers and repair creams built around minimal, well-tolerated actives.
- Sun care and after-sun: SPF emulsions and after-sun products for comfort and rehydration.
- Premium anti-aging concepts: combined with hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, ceramides and peptides.
Formulation Notes and Usage Levels
In leave-on skincare, ectoine is commonly used at approximately 0.1% – 2%, depending on the
desired claim and the rest of the formula; higher levels may be used in rinse-off and sun care formats. Because
it is water-soluble, the simplest route is to add it to the water phase at room temperature with gentle stirring.
Always confirm the final level in your own formula and run your own stability and compatibility testing.
Typical pairing partners: Hyaluronic Acid (Sodium Hyaluronate) for hydration,
Niacinamide for multi-functional support, Ceramide NP for barrier care, and
peptides for firming concepts.
EU & Regulatory Notes
In the European Union, cosmetic ingredients fall under Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009. Ectoine is used as a
cosmetic ingredient under the INCI name Ectoine. When sourcing for the EU market, ask your supplier for:
- COA and MSDS for the specific batch
- Third-party heavy metal test reports
- Confirmation of EU and Halal compliance for export documentation
Final labelling and claim compliance remains the responsibility of the brand placing the product on the market;
this article is technical sourcing guidance, not regulatory advice.
Why Source Ectoine from Aogubio (Imaherb)
- GMP-certified manufacturing with HACCP, ISO 22000 and Organic standards; EU and Halal compliant for export
- COA, MSDS and heavy metal test reports with every batch
- Flexible order sizes from 1 kg — practical for trial batches and pilot production
- Bulk supply of complementary actives (hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, ceramides, squalane) from one supplier
FAQ
- What is ectoine’s CAS number? — 96702-03-3.
- What INCI name is used on the label? — Ectoine.
- What usage level is typical? — About 0.1% – 2% in leave-on skincare.
- Is ectoine water-soluble? — Yes; it is added to the water phase.
- Can it be combined with hyaluronic acid and niacinamide? — Yes; these combinations are common in hydration and barrier concepts.
- What documentation should I request? — COA, MSDS and a third-party heavy metal test report per batch.
Sourcing ectoine in bulk? Visit our product page for the full specification and to request a
sample: Ectoine (Ectoin) – bulk cosmetic ingredient
Aogubio Co., Ltd (Imaherb) is a GMP-certified manufacturer of bulk cosmetic and supplement ingredients.
Every batch ships with COA, MSDS and heavy metal test reports.