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4 Of The Best Ectoin Formulas To Try

4 Of The Best Ectoin Formulas To Try

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Between INCI lists and TikTok-isms (think ‘beef tallow’ and ‘skinstreaming’), deciphering the ever-growing skincare lexicon is without doubt the largest piece of the puzzle when it comes to a successful skin regime. But among the trends that might cause more grief than glow, there’s one skincare ingredient currently on the lips of every dermatologist that’s truly worth the hype. Enter: ectoin.

Lesser-known in the world of skincare, ectoin has had a surge of popularity of late and is currently cropping in every new skincare bottle and creeping into the conversation on social media. ‘Ectoin is trending due to conversations around repairing the skin barrier, after years of overusing actives to exfoliate, peel and rejuvenate the skin, particularly during the pandemic,’ shares La Roche-Posay dermatologist, Dr Justine Hextall.

But that’s not where the benefits end: unlike some of the other ingredients sitting pretty in your skincare line-up like, say, hyaluronic acid, ectoin is a multi-tasking wonder, helping to hydrate on a deeper level, strengthen the skin barrier, and improve skin tone and texture.

Ahead, discover why everyone is talking about ectoin, how to incorporate it into your existing routine, and the new formulas to try…

What is ectoin?

‘Ectoin is similar to your skin’s natural defence against stress,’ shares Mark Curry, co-founder of The INKEY List. ‘It’s a naturally derived molecule derived from extremophiles ( microorganisms that thrive in extreme environments, like salt lakes or deserts).’

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When it comes to skincare, ectoin helps to protect your skin from environmental stressors, such as pollution and UV radiation. It also aids dehydration, reduces inflammation and stabilises skin cells under stress. ‘Think of it as a shield that strengthens your skin barrier whilst simultaneously sending invites out to hydrators to go deeper into the skin,’ he shares.

FIND OUT MORE ON ELLE COLLECTIVE

What does ectoin do for the skin?

‘Ectoin is considered “nature’s stress protection molecule”,’ agrees skin expert and aesthetic doctor, Dr Christine Hall. ‘Its ability to stabilise and protect the skin barrier while delivering long-lasting hydration makes it an especially valuable ingredient for modern skincare,’ she shares.

Unlike some of the actives in your current skincare routine, though, there’s no risk of sensitivity. ‘It has proven benefits for sensitive skin and conditions such as eczema and rosacea, helping improve tolerability to potent actives like retinol without negative side effects,’ she adds.

It’s also a winner if you’re suffering from inflamed skin. ‘Ectoin prevents inflammation by stabilising the skin barrier, protecting against heat and dryness and significantly reducing trans-epidermal water loss,’ adds Dr Hall.

Dr. Jart+ Ceramidin Infused Ectoin Cream
Susanne Kaufmann Ectoin Repair Serum
Biossance Squalane and Ectoin Overnight Rescue
The INKEY List Ectoin Hydro-Barrier Serum

Matteo Scarpellini//Getty Images

Are there any drawbacks to consider?

Welcome news to anyone who has played victim to a cruel active or harsh skincare ingredient in the past: ectoin has no negative side effects. ‘It’s gentle on the skin, and you shouldn’t expect redness, peeling, or discomfort when using products formulated with ectoin,’ shares Dr Hall.

Dr Hextall agrees. ‘Ectoin even works well when added to active ingredients in order to minimise the side effects and skin barrier damage that can be caused by acids and higher strength retinoids, without compromising on their efficacy,’ she shares, adding that it can also be used alongside other ‘skin protective’ ingredients such as ceramides.

As an easy-to-tolerate ingredient that’s simple to slot into your routine, there are no hard and fast rules when it comes to ectoin (phew). You can use this ingredient year-round, though it’s especially beneficial in winter when the skin barrier can be compromised, and in the form of a serum, moisturiser or night cream. As there’s no risk of irritation in conjunction with other ingredients, you won’t need to worry about chopping and changing your current line-up, either.

All in all, if dryness, inflammation and lack of all-round radiance are your main skincare bugbears, it might be time to turn your attention to this hardworking skincare hero.

Carlo Scarpato

ELLE Collective is a new community of fashion, beauty and culture lovers. For access to exclusive content, events, inspiring advice from our Editors and industry experts, as well the opportunity to meet designers, thought-leaders and stylists, become a member today HERE.

Amelia Bell is the Multiplatform Beauty Director for ELLE UK and Harper’s Bazaar, developing beauty strategy, writing, editing, and commissioning, and leading beauty content across both sites. Amelia has a particular interest in wellness and longevity, exploring the skin-mind connection, and decoding the latest treatments, tweakments and runway trends. She also has bylines for Women’s Health, Refinery29, British Vogue, Harrods Magazine, and more. 

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Dermatologist-Approved Anti-Ageing Treatments for Men: What Works & What Doesn’t

Dermatologist-Approved Anti-Ageing Treatments for Men: What Works & What Doesn’t

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Skin is the largest multifunctional organ of the body, yet it still gets neglected when it comes to anti-ageing treatments for men. Generally, it is considered that skincare and anti-ageing treatments only resonate with women, but with changing social phenomena, men are also understanding the importance of healthy skin, which brings glow as a bonus. Due to several lifestyle and environmental factors, anti-ageing treatments have become a necessity. These aim to slow down the visible signs of ageing, such as wrinkles, dark spots, age spots, and damaged skin.



As anti-ageing treatments for men are blooming, we spoke to Dr Pranjal Joshi, Cosmetic Dermatologist and Hair Transplant Surgeon, Varsity Skin & Wellness Clinic in Malviya Nagar. He explains the major concerns for men regarding ageing and the most suitable treatments.

Major Skin Concerns for Men Regarding Ageing

According to reports, men skin requires more hydration than women because of the higher thickness and sebum production, along with rough skin due to regular shaving. Dr Pranjal Joshi shared that the major skin concerns for men regarding ageing are dull skin, fine lines, under-eye bags, and poor skin elasticity.

“Due to higher levels of testosterone, male skin tends to lean more on the oily, thicker side with larger-than-normal pores. Post-shave irritation is also a concern, which results in damaged skin tissues, making it not just rough but also dark and dull,” mentioned Dr Joshi.

Also Read: International Men’s Day 2025: Study Reveals High Suicide Risk In Men Driven by Emotional Isolation, Expert Shares How To Overcome

Poor lifestyle habits, such as smoking and eating junk food, and increased air pollution, have drastically changed the skin tissues’ life cycle, resulting in faster ageing. Although women are known to start anti-ageing skincare first, men are typically the last to take noticeable action.

Do Men Need To Buy Specific Skincare?

Reports indicate that men do not need to buy specifically men skincare products, as the ingredients in the products are mostly the same with women skin skincare products. Dr Joshi underlined the same saying that skincare brands market male-specific products, but it’s typically not necessary to buy products labelled for men.

“More important than the label on the product is the efficacy of the active ingredients in the formulation. A basic skincare routine, which includes retinol, Vitamin C, and sunscreen, is necessary and important to use,” said Dr Joshi.

Today, more and more men want healthy and youthful skin, and hence, explore different anti-ageing treatments and skincare products. This has also fuelled the market for skincare products. Dr Joshi suggests understanding your skin type and opting for a general, simpler, and healthier skincare routine instead of going for any specific approach.

Anti-Ageing Treatments For Men

While there is a lot of information and misinformation available online, some anti-ageing treatments are quite effective, while others are gimmicky or overhyped at best. It is important to understand what really works or doesn’t work so that one may choose the most effective option and build a long-lasting and efficient skincare strategy. Dr Joshi shared the anti-ageing treatments that genuinely work and those that don’t.

What Work

Retinoids

When we talk about anti-ageing, retinoids are the gold standard. They help with the production of collagen, brighten the skin, reduce fine lines and wrinkles, and contribute to the improvement of skin texture. Dr Joshi said, “Retinol is available in different forms. Some mild forms are available over the counter, while the stronger formulations may only be available upon prescription and provide stronger results.” For retinol to work effectively, consistency is the key, and significant improvement is typically observed in 2-3 months.

Sunscreen

Dermatologists all across the globe consider sunscreen as the most basic and effective anti-ageing product. “Around 80% of visible skin ageing happens because of UV radiation-induced skin damage. Regular sunscreen use with an SPF of 30 or higher prevents skin ageing and associated signs such as wrinkles, dark spots, and even something as grave as skin cancer,” Dr Joshi stated. Hence, for those men who tend to spend a lot of time outdoors or drive often, the use of sunscreen is non-negotiable.

Vitamin C-based Serums

Serums that are enriched with Vitamin C help with skin brightening by reducing pigmentation and offering protection against free radical-induced damage. “Men, especially in their 30s and 40s, should incorporate it into their daily morning skincare routine,” Dr Joshi stated.

Clinic-based Procedures

Dr Joshi highlights that for the treatment of wrinkles, acne scars, and uneven tone, treatments like chemical peels, micro-needling, and lasers work effectively. The more effective and stronger treatments include the use of neuromodulators and dermal fillers, which can help achieve a much younger appearance in a relatively short period of time.

Also Read: Did You Know New Fathers Face Paternal Postnatal Depression and Hormonal Shifts? Tips to Manage and Control

What Do Not Work

Anti-Ageing Face Washes

There are many face washes available in the market that claim to be effective at providing an anti-ageing effect. However, as shared by Dr Joshi, face washes do not stay long enough on the face to provide any effective skincare benefits.

Face Yoga

Yoga for various facial expressions is routinely advertised as a miracle; however, the science behind its long-term anti-ageing benefits is absolutely lacking. Practising yoga regularly provides significant health benefits and helps keep you feeling young, but it does not work as an anti-ageing treatment.

Cosmetic Products with Unclear Formulations

Many creams manufactured by cosmetic brands market non-scientific formulations, but they do not effectively work as an anti-ageing treatment. Dr Joshi noted, “Using multiple formulations, albeit in very low concentrations, does not work at all. It is not the brand that works but the molecules such as retinoids, peptides, and antioxidants that help.”

Home-based LED Mask Devices

The home-based LED devices are going viral on social media, trending with claims of magical responses; however, doctors suggest that they work in very modest ways or are absolutely ineffective.

Using an effective home-care regimen along with intermittent use of clinic-based medical treatments yields the best results for men looking for anti-ageing skincare treatments.

Bottom Line

With the changing times and awareness, men are becoming more accepting and responsive towards anti-ageing treatments. However, several brands are marketing their gimmicky products that are actually modestly or zero effective. Before using any products, it is important to check the ingredients in the product. 

FAQ

  • What is the best skin care routine for men?

    A good skin care routine for men includes a gentle cleanser, vitamin C serum and sunscreen.

  • What are anti-ageing treatments for men?

    There are several anti-ageing treatments available in the market for men, including skin peels, HydraFacial and micro needling.

 

 

 

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Disclaimer

How we keep this article up to date:

We work with experts and keep a close eye on the latest in health and wellness. Whenever there is a new research or helpful information, we update our articles with accurate and useful advice.


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  • Nov 19, 2025 17:21 IST

    Published By : Sameeksha Sharma

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The beauty of confidence is more than skin deep

The beauty of confidence is more than skin deep

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From sports to screen, So-Yeon Kang opens up about embracing both athleticism and self-care, and how confidence is the best look of all.

When Kang So-Yeon first appeared on Single’s Inferno, the hosts quickly picked up on her confidence—a quiet strength she still radiates as she reflects on her journey. With her athletic build, the singer, influencer, and actress recalls how her tall frame was often considered less than ideal for roles shaped by traditional Korean beauty standards.

Now, she sees South Korea shifting away from rigid ideals, and her casting on the Netflix reality show became a turning point as she embraced the beauty of diversity with the support of fans, saying, “The balance of mind and body—inner peace and a healthy body—is essential for confidence.”

Kang grew up in a sporty family and remains active today with tennis, boxing, scuba diving, and more. “Exercise as the greatest form of self-respect and physical strength is the power that allows you to not give up and to resolve things more positively,” says Kang, adding that to her, beauty is the embodiment of health, courage and confidence. She believes that medical aesthetic treatments can create synergy with this mindset, providing her with confidence—especially important in her work in front of the camera.

“Confidence begins from within, but subtle enhancements through medical aesthetics can complement a holistic self-care routine,” she continues, noting that she has undergone Ultherapy Prime by Merz Aesthetics, a family-owned business with more than 115 years of German heritage.

Non-invasive medical aesthetic treatments such as Ultherapy Prime have been gaining popularity due to technological advances, minimal downtime, and increased acceptance. In the Asia-Pacific region, the medical aesthetic devices market is projected to surpass $5.4 billion in 2025, rising to $8.9 billion by 2030, with minimally invasive options accounting for more than 55% of the market.

In recent years, the conversation around medical aesthetic procedures has become more open. This shift in narrative contributes to framing beauty treatments as another form of long-term self-care, much like exercise and nutrition.

Choosing medical aesthetics treatment is a deeply personal choice, rooted in a journey of self-care and empowerment.

Lawrence Siow, president, Merz Aesthetics APAC

“What truly matters is that these choices, especially when thoughtfully guided using scientifically supported products and performed by skilled medical practitioners, reflect one’s values, individuality, and personal sense of confidence,” says Lawrence Siow, president at Merz Aesthetics APAC.

Even as beauty ideals across the Asia-Pacific region become more diverse and inclusive, cultural pressures continue to play a defining role in how people navigate their aesthetic journeys. The Pillars of Confidence, a global study of 15,000 adults across 15 countries, conducted by Merz Aesthetics with research partner Ipsos, found that 40% of respondents feel discouraged from discussing treatments due to fear of judgment. Social media adds an extra layer of pressure, fueling unrealistic standards through filters and photo editing tools.

Despite these external influences, a growing trend is emerging toward authenticity and natural-looking results. In the Pillars of Confidence study, 62% of respondents surveyed in the Asia-Pacific region reported pursuing aesthetic treatments as part of regular beauty maintenance, and 79% said they did so to reflect how they feel inside, highlighting how treatments can empower individuals to feel more aligned with their personal identity and confident in their own skin.

Research published in the Aesthetic Surgery Journal shows a positive correlation between nonsurgical medical aesthetic treatments and self-perception. In a survey of East Asian participants who had undergone aesthetic procedures, 64.5% of respondents were motivated by internal factors such as self-investment and self-confidence, rather than external societal pressure. This is echoed in the Pillars of Confidence study, which found 72% of respondents said aesthetic treatments impact how they view themselves, and 74% considered self-confidence key to well-being.

Medical aesthetics today is less about conforming to societal ideals and more about enhancing one’s unique features. In Singapore, medical doctors like Dr. Siew Tuck Wah, who has over 15 years of experience performing non-invasive treatments, believe that every treatment should be personalized to the individual to achieve a natural result. “Many Asian patients are choosing to optimize their traits for natural-looking results through non-surgical methods,” says Dr. Siew.

While unnatural results remain the single biggest concern among Pillars of Confidence survey respondents, safety is also a major consideration. “Patient safety is our highest priority,” says Dr. Samantha Kerr, chief scientific officer at Merz Aesthetics. “All Merz Aesthetics products undergo rigorous clinical evaluation, are backed by scientific evidence, and meet strict regulatory standards for medical aesthetic treatments, including approvals from relevant global regulatory agencies.” As awareness of safety and natural results continues to grow, the conversation around medical aesthetics is evolving toward a more informed and balanced understanding of confidence and self-care.

By embracing their own beauty, as Kang has done, the personal decision to receive medical aesthetic treatments can celebrate diversity and strengthen confidence. “That kind of continual self-appreciation—I think the self-appreciation mindset is what authentic beauty truly is,” says Kang, emphasizing that in today’s evolving landscape, confidence and individuality are redefining beauty as a genuine expression of self.

Learn more about how Merz Aesthetics is celebrating the power of confidence here.

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