Ectoine is a gentle and effective skincare ingredient, often used for its soothing, hydrating, and protective properties. It’s great for sensitive, dry, irritated, or environmentally stressed skin.
Chemical Structure of Ectoine
- IUPAC Name: 1,4,5,6-tetrahydro-2-methyl-4-pyrimidinecarboxylic acid
- Molecular Formula: C6H10N2O2
- Molecular Weight: 142.16 g/mol
Structural Features:
- Heterocyclic compound → contains a pyrimidine ring.
- Zwitterionic nature → has both positive (protonated nitrogen) and negative (carboxylate) groups at physiological pH.
- Highly water-soluble due to polar groups.
- Natural amino acid derivative (but non-proteinogenic).
Structure Image:
Physical Properties of Ectoine
| Property | Details |
| Appearance | White crystalline powder |
| Solubility | Highly soluble in water (~1.2 g/mL) |
| Melting Point | 280 – 290 °C (decomposes) |
| Stability | Stable under heat, UV, and oxidative stress |
| Taste/Odor | Tasteless, odorless |
| Hygroscopicity | Low |
| Optical Activity | Optically active (chiral center at C-2) |
| pKa values | ~2.5 (COOH group), ~9.0 (NH group) |
Special Characteristics
- Extremely hygroscopic environment protector → stabilizes proteins, membranes, and DNA by structuring water molecules (preferential exclusion effect).
- Compatible solute (osmolyte) → Helps bacteria survive extreme environments like high salinity, heat, or drought.
- Uses in skincare → Hydration, anti-aging, and anti-inflammatory effects.
Functional Properties of Ectoine
- Highly hygroscopic (retains water)
- Acts as a natural osmolyte (protects cells from osmotic stress)
- Stabilizes proteins, enzymes, DNA, and membranes
- Anti-inflammatory and protective against UV and environmental stress
Applications of Ectoine
- Skincare and cosmetics (hydration, anti-aging, anti-pollution)
- Pharmaceutical (cell protection, anti-inflammatory)
- Biotechnology (stress protection for bacteria)
- Medical (treatment of allergic rhinitis, dermatitis)
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