Instead of being the ambulance at the bottom of the cliff (think, reaching for a one-off face mask to try and fix what is really a long-term skin problem) there has been a significant shift towards preventative skincare over-reactive repair solutions.
“In 2025 and beyond consumers will focus on preventing skin issues before they arise rather than trying to fix them afterward,” says aesthetician Kelly Swann. “This means investing in high-quality skincare products that promote long-term health, like sunscreens, antioxidants, and hydrating treatments.”
Robust skincare routines with proven ingredients that prioritise prevention will be key. “Incorporate broad-spectrum SPF into your daily regimen and use antioxidant-rich serums,” says Swann, owner of Swann Aesthetics. “Regular professional treatments can also maintain skin health.”
This can be seen in the emergence of further ingredients designed for protection and prevention.
What is Ectoin?
Ectoin is emerging as a key player currently being emblazoned on skincare. But why?
It turns out, the ingredient is similar to niacinimide in that it performs a number of useful actions in skin, but primarily, it’s used to protect and repair skin.
Ectoin is a type of short-chain amino acid called an “extremolyte.” Extremolytes are small organic molecules that protect cells in plants and organisms living in the world’s most extreme conditions like deserts and the deepest parts of the ocean.
In skincare, you can think of it as a bodyguard for your skin protecting it from elements like blue light and pollution on a cellular level.
“Known for its ability to strengthen the skin barrier and reduce water loss, ectoin helps maintain skin hydration and resilience, explains Swann.
“With climate change and environmental stressors impacting our skin, ectoin’s protective qualities are becoming increasingly sought after.”
She says to look our for moisturisers or serums containing ectoin, especially if you live in a dry or polluted environment, as they are perfect to protect against moisture loss, skin damage and aging.
Best skincare containing Ectoin
These are some of the new skincare arrivals that hero ectoin, in order to boost, nourish and protect skin.
L-R: Susanne Kaufmann Ectoin Repair Serum; Allies of Skin Copper Tripeptide & Ectoin Advanced Repair Serum; The Inkey List Ectoin Hydro-Barrier Serum; Byoma Barrier Repair Treatment; Dr. Jart+ Ceramidin Ectoin-Infused Cream
