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Ectoin Hydro-Barrier Serum on black shelf
Side-by-side close-ups of a person's face labeled 'Before' and '15 Minutes Later.' The left shows matte skin with 25% hydration. The right shows visibly hydrated, glowing skin with 83% hydration
How to layer: How to layer in your routine: Clean, Hydrate, Treat, Moisturize, SPF
Product image of Ectoin Hydro-Barrier Serum with water splashes. Text states it’s clinically proven to restore skin bounce in 3 days* *4 week clinical study of 26 people
Apply pea-sized amount
Apply AM & PM
 Diagram highlighting key skincare ingredients: 2% Ectoin for hydration, 2.5% Hyaluronic Acid for deep moisture, and 1% Barrier Blend with Ceramides for protection
 Side-by-side comparison of skin on Day 1 vs. Day 28, showing reduced redness and improved texture
 Side-by-side comparison of skin on Day 1 vs. Day 28, showing reduced redness and improved texture
 Product image of Ectoin Hydro-Barrier: Clinically proven to hydrate & strengthen skin barrier in 15 minutes*  *Clinical study of 31 people
Instantly strengthens the barrier and hydrated up to 10 surface layers deep
Model with ectoin serum on skin

Ectoin Hydro-Barrier Serum | The INKEY List

Hydrates whilst supporting and strengthening the skin’s barrier

4.5
Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars
4.5 Stars (315 Reviews)
$15.00 / 30ml
A breakthrough in barrier skincare, The INKEY List Ectoin Hydro-Barrier Serum is your winter skin savior—a dual-action serum that boosts hydration up to 10 surface layers deep whilst building a stronger, more resilient skin barrier to defend against cold weather, dry air, and seasonal stressors. Clinically proven to restore skin bounce in just 3 days and deeply hydrate + strengthen the skin’s barrier in just 15 minutes, it’s a cold-weather essential for keeping skin hydrated, soothed, and glowing all season long.

Replenishing your hydration whilst simultaneously repairing your barrier is essential for protecting against winter dryness and moisture loss. Our Ectoin Hydro-Barrier Serum has been uniquely formulated with ingredients that work synergistically to provide deep, multi-level hydration, helping to lock in moisture and shield the skin from environmental aggressors.

2% Ectoin: Known as an extreme protector, Ectoin acts as a natural hydrator and skin cell stabilizer, helping to prevent winter-induced dehydration, calm irritation, and reinforce barrier strength for skin that stays soft, smooth, and comfortable.

Multi-Molecular Hyaluronic Acid: Helps restore the protective skin barrier from the outside in, enabling it to retain moisture more effectively—even in cold, dry air.

Whether you're looking for a hydrating serum for winter-parched skin or a lightweight layer of moisture to keep skin balanced, with continued daily use, this serum visibly improves 5 signs of a compromised skin barrier: dullness, dryness, redness, flakiness, and slackness. The INKEY List’s Ectoin Serum has a lightweight texture that melts into the skin, delivering instant, non-tacky hydration—perfect for layering under your winter skincare and makeup routine.

Suitable for:

  • All skin types
  • Barrier support and protection ​

Targets:

  • Dehydrated skin
  • Compromised skin barrier
  • Dryness
  • Flakiness
  • Dullness

Proud to be:

  • Cruelty Free
  • Carbon Net-Zero
  • Clinically Tested
  • Dermatologically Tested
  • B-Corp
  • Fragrance Free
  • Silicon Free
  • Alcohol Free
  • Vegan
  • Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe

Awards & Features

refinery29
Vogue
Grazia

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  • $5.95 or FREE on your first order & orders over $35
  • (2-5 business days*)

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  • $15
  • (2-3 business days*, when ordered before 3pm EST)

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Ectoin Hydro-Barrier Serum

Ectoin Hydro-Barrier Serum

  • • For those who want healthier, stronger skin
  • Hydrates & strengthens the skin barrier in just 15 minutes*
  • • Gives visibly bouncier & smoother skin in just 7 days*
  • • Visibly improves 5 signs of a compromised skin barrier: dryness, flakiness, dullness, redness and slackness

or

Have you tried?

Hyaluronic Acid Serum - 30ml

Hyaluronic Acid Serum - 30ml

  • • For those who want to maintain healthy, hydrated skin
  • • Provides instant & lasting hydration
  • • Helps your other skincare work harder
  • • Leaves skin feeling plump & smooth

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  • Before and after comparison
    "I was actually shocked with the results myself it kept improving and I started seeing the difference after a week and it just kept getting better I can’t wait for the official launch I’m gonna buy more products from inkey I’m really impressed with the result, this product is a part of my daily morning and night skincare routine and I’m so thankful for the opportunity you guys gave me to test this out"

    Sumbal

  • Before and after comparison
4.5
Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars
Based on 315 reviews
Total 5 star reviews: 229 Total 4 star reviews: 52 Total 3 star reviews: 13 Total 2 star reviews: 10 Total 1 star reviews: 11
Reviews Summary
Customers say this serum provides excellent hydration and absorbs quickly into the skin. Many reviews mention improved skin texture and plumpness after regular use. While most find it gentle and effective, some note it can pill under makeup. The lightweight formula receives praise for its smooth application, though a few users report it wasn't hydrating enough for their needs. Reviews frequently highlight its suitability for sensitive skin, with many noting improved skin comfort. Some users mention seeing visible results within weeks of use, particularly in skin smoothness and overall appearance.
315 reviews
  • Bridget
    Verified Buyer
    Reviewing
    Ectoin Hydro-Barrier Serum
    I recommend this product
    Age Range 45 - 54
    Skin Type Combination
    Skin Concerns Redness, Damaged Skin Barrier, Dehydration, Dryness, Puffiness
    Sensitive Skin Friendly? Yes
    Rated 5 out of 5 stars
    2 days ago
    Magic potion!

    My menopausal skin crisis happened just as this product was launched. My skin was suddenly reacting to products I had used for months/years. It was red, dry, flaky and thick. I took a chance and bought the Ectoin Hydro-Barrier Serum to see if it would help. It did an amazing job of calming my skin. When I finished my first bottle, I decided to use up my old products as I hate waste. Big mistake! Within a few days, everything came back. Needless to say I'm back to the Ectoin and instantly, my skin feels calm. No burn. The photos aren't a direct before and after but show how good this has been for me overall. Amazing stuff!

  • Allie L.
    Verified Buyer
    Reviewing
    Ectoin Hydro-Barrier Serum
    I recommend this product
    Age Range 25 - 34
    Skin Type Combination
    Skin Concerns Dryness, Texture, Redness
    Sensitive Skin Friendly? Yes
    Rated 5 out of 5 stars
    1 week ago
    This stuff works!!

    I’ve had issues with my skin barrier for several years now and having almost finished my second bottle of this, I can say with certainty that it has helped repair my skin barrier and has made my skin feel comforted and less reactive. I hope that they never discontinue this product - it has been game changing for me!!

  • Konstantinos D.
    Verified Buyer
    Reviewing
    Ectoin Hydro-Barrier Serum
    I recommend this product
    Age Range 25 - 34
    Skin Type Combination
    Sensitive Skin Friendly? Yes
    Rated 5 out of 5 stars
    1 week ago
    One of their best product

    It's litterally one of their best products