# The INKEY List ECTOIN HYDRO-BARRIER SERUM for oily skin

**Lovi Fit: Low fit for oily skin.**
Oily Skin Fit: Average · Effectiveness: Average · Safety: High.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/the-inkey-list/ectoin-hydro-barrier-serum/for/oily-skin

The Lovi Fit is the same in every country; only the stores and prices differ, and the ones here are for Italy.

Brand: [The INKEY List](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/brands/the-inkey-list)
Category: [Moisturizers and moisturizing serums](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/best/moisturizers)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with oily skin: shine, enlarged pores, blackheads, and blemishes. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

A weak match for oily skin; the moisturizers alongside fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate moisturizing for your oily skin due to glycerin and ectoin, which hydrate and enhance barrier resilience, but lacks specialized ingredients to control oil production and address oily shine.
- While hyaluronic acid provides humectant action, the overall formula offers general skincare benefits that are mostly supportive rather than directly targeting your primary concern of oily shine.
- The product is safe for your oily skin, with no risks of irritation due to the absence of prohibited or harsh ingredients.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/the-inkey-list/ectoin-hydro-barrier-serum/for/oily-skin): Low (this page)
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/the-inkey-list/ectoin-hydro-barrier-serum/for/dry-skin): Average
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/the-inkey-list/ectoin-hydro-barrier-serum/for/combination-skin): Low
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/the-inkey-list/ectoin-hydro-barrier-serum/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/the-inkey-list/ectoin-hydro-barrier-serum/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/the-inkey-list/ectoin-hydro-barrier-serum/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/the-inkey-list/ectoin-hydro-barrier-serum/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/the-inkey-list/ectoin-hydro-barrier-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Average
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/the-inkey-list/ectoin-hydro-barrier-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average

## Key ingredients

Ectoin, Hyaluronic Acid, Glycerin

## What the research says

- A single application of a moisturizing fluid containing hyaluronic acid 1%, glycerin 5%, and Centella asiatica stem cells extract significantly increased skin hydration by 29% and reduced transepidermal water loss at 24 hours compared to baseline and an untreated control site in twenty healthy women. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/))
- Topical hyaluronic acid filler serum combined with Botulinum toxin type A lengthened the duration of the toxin's effect in reducing wrinkles compared to Botulinum toxin type A alone. ([Dermatologic Therapy, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36200921/))
- Optimized transfersomes loaded with epigallocatechin-3-gallate and hyaluronic acid increased cell viability while reducing lipid peroxidation, intracellular ROS, and MMP expression in HaCaT cells, and exhibited higher skin permeation and deposition compared to plain EGCG. ([Drug Delivery, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28155509/))
- Combining ectoine and mannitol with UV filters significantly improved protection of squalene oxidation, catalase activity, and trans-UCA compared to UV filters alone in 10 subjects on irradiated areas. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37539499/))
- Topical 7% ectoine during serial 1064-nm Nd:YAG laser therapy produced a greater reduction in skin erythema, improved stratum corneum hydration, reduced transepidermal water loss, and decreased low-echogenic pixels in thirty participants compared to a vehicle control. ([Biomedicines, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42792808/))
- Regular application of a novel anti-ageing cream containing hyaluronic acid, ectoin, and botanical actives significantly reduced wrinkle depth and length in the periorbital area while demonstrating very good skin tolerance. ([Polymers, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37896378/))
- Topical application of 0.1% hyaluronic acid formulations of different molecular weights led to significant improvements in skin hydration and elasticity, with low-molecular-weight formulations also significantly reducing wrinkle depth in seventy-six female subjects compared to a vehicle control. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2011](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22052267/))
- Topical application of hyaluronic acid in conjunction with free gingival graft significantly reduced donor site postoperative pain until day 7 compared to normal saline, with no significant differences in graft dimensions or patient satisfaction. ([Clinical Oral Investigations, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34623507/))
- Treatment with a hyaluronic acid-containing mouth rinse or topical gel led to significant lesion reduction, pain relief, and normalization of lesion color in adult patients with minor recurrent aphthous stomatitis, with the gel formulation showing an earlier healing onset at 3 days. ([BMC Oral Health, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31311529/))
- The emollient V0034CR significantly reduced TEWL compared to vehicle and vehicle plus glycerol, and significantly increased corneometry scores compared to vehicle and vehicle plus petrolatum in healthy volunteers with dry skin, demonstrating combined barrier function improvement from petrolatum and hydration improvement from glycerol. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31532576/))
- Ten days of treatment with a cream containing 20% glycerin significantly increased skin hydration measured by corneometer values in 17 healthy volunteers compared to a placebo cream, but showed no influence on transepidermal water loss or skin sensitivity to an irritating surfactant. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2001](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18498456/))
- Niacinamide/glycerin body moisturizers provided better rapid and prolonged improvement of cosmetic xerosis through functional improvement of stratum corneum barrier function compared to no treatment and conventional moisturizers in female subjects. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22206073/))

## Why other moisturizers fit oily skin better

- A panthenol-enriched mask improved skin hydration, regulated sebum, and reduced redness and TEWL across dry sensitive, oily sensitive, and oily acne skin subgroups with excellent tolerance and no adverse reactions. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38366684/))
- Epigallocatechin-3-gallate significantly improved acne in patients compared to the control side during an 8-week clinical trial. ([The Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 2013](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23096708/))

## What reviewers say

Users with dehydrated, dry, and sensitive skin frequently praise this serum for its ability to repair the skin barrier and soothe irritation, particularly from retinoid use or cold weather. While some users found it lacked immediate "watery" hydration, the majority reported long-term improvements in skin texture, redness reduction, and a plump, healthy glow.

- Liked: Soothing and barrier repair (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Hydration and plumping (often mentioned)
- Liked: Lightweight texture (often mentioned)
- Liked: Makeup compatibility (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Unpleasant scent (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Breakouts or reactions (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Lack of instant hydration (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Pilling issues (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Could be used as part of your AM or PM routine every day to keep your face fresh.
- Apply this moisturizer after cleansing and toning, but right before your SPF in the morning.
- Gently press a small amount into your skin and let it absorb fully.
- Apply on clean, slightly dry skin to help control that oily shine.
- Avoid the eye area and do a quick patch test before your first use.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/2f72f5d69f07beeafc30237f829efbff.mp4

## Questions and answers

### Why is THE INKEY LIST Ectoin Hydro-Barrier Serum a weak match for oily skin?

This serum is a weak match for oily skin because it only provides general moisture and hydration with glycerin and ectoin, but lacks ingredients like Niacinamide to control oil production and reduce shine. A moisturizing treatment for oily skin needs oil-controlling ingredients, lightweight hydration that does not clog pores, and soothing agents to help maintain balance.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### Which ingredients make this serum a poor fit for oily skin?

This serum is a weak match for oily skin because it lacks oil-controlling ingredients like Niacinamide, while focusing mainly on hydrating with glycerin and ectoin. An oily skin type needs a product that provides lightweight hydration, regulates oil production, and minimizes shine without clogging pores.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### What does Ectoin do for oily skin?

Ectoin helps protect oily skin from irritation and environmental stress while keeping it calm and balanced. It acts as a cell protector that strengthens the skin barrier and keeps moisture locked in without feeling heavy. Oily skin of this type needs lightweight hydrators and antioxidants like ectoine to stay smooth and calm.
Sources: [Clinics in Dermatology, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18691511/), [Arhiv Za Higijenu Rada I Toksikologiju, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28033102/)

### What does Hyaluronic Acid do for oily skin?

Hyaluronic acid helps oily skin by reducing extra oil and sebum production without causing irritation. Clinical studies show it successfully balances oil levels while keeping the skin comfortable.
Sources: [The Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28163068/)

### Where does this serum go in a skincare routine for oily skin?

This serum goes in the evening routine after cleansing and toning, and before moisturizing. While it is safe and provides gentle moisture, oily skin needs specialized ingredients that actively control oil production and reduce shine.

### Can I use this serum with retinol, and in what order?

This serum is safe to use with retinol and may help keep your skin comfortable by strengthening its moisture barrier. Apply the serum first to damp skin, let it absorb, and then follow with your retinol product. Oily skin also needs oil-controlling ingredients like salicylic acid or niacinamide to manage shine.
Sources: [Cutis, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17121065/)

### How often should I use this serum?

You can use this serum daily in your evening routine, as it is safe and gentle on your skin. To properly care for oily skin, a product of this type also needs specialized ingredients that control oil production and reduce oily shine.

### Can this serum clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for oily skin?

This serum is unlikely to cause breakouts or clogged pores for oily skin, as it is safe with no harsh ingredients. However, it offers only general hydration and lacks ingredients to control oil and shine, so oily skin generally needs a formula with oil-controlling ingredients.

### Can I use this serum around the eyes or on my body?

You can safely use this serum around the eyes or on your body because its gentle formula is well tolerated by delicate areas. While the thin skin around the eyes and various body regions benefit from this hydration, an oily skin type generally needs ingredients that actively control shine and balance oil production.
Sources: [Surgical and Radiologic Anatomy, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12375070/), [Polymers, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37896378/)

### Is this serum fragrance-free and alcohol-free?

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for oily skin

- [Allies of Skin Peptides & Antioxidants Firming Daily Treatment](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/allies-of-skin/peptides-and-antioxidants-firming-daily-treatment/for/oily-skin) — High fit — €103.95 at Amazon
- [Torriden DIVE-IN Low Molecular Hyaluronic Acid Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/torriden/dive-in-low-molecular-hyaluronic-acid-serum/for/oily-skin) — High fit — €21.00 at Amazon
- [COSRX Hydrium Triple Hyaluronic Moisture Ampoule](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/cosrx/hydrium-triple-hyaluronic-moisture-ampoule/for/oily-skin) — High fit — €17.99 at Amazon

## Routine for oily skin

### AM

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €24.75 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [La Mer The Tonic](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/la-mer/the-tonic/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €103.91 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion with Birch Sap](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/cosrx/oil-free-ultra-moisturizing-lotion-with-birch-sap/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €18.47 at Amazon
- SPF: [make p:rem UV Defense Me Blue Ray Sun Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/make-p-rem/uv-defense-me-blue-ray-sun-cream/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €40.49 at Amazon

### PM

- Pre-Cleanser: [Shu Uemura Ultime8 Sublime Beauty Cleansing Oil](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/shu-uemura/ultime8-sublime-beauty-cleansing-oil/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €40.00 at Amazon
- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €24.75 at Amazon
- Cleansing Toner: [Pixi Glow Tonic](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/pixi/glow-tonic/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €19.50 at Amazon
- Serum or Treatment: [L'Oréal Paris Revitalift Derm Intensives Vitamin C Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/l-oreal-paris/revitalift-12-vitamin-c-e-salicylic-serum/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €14.21 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion with Birch Sap](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/cosrx/oil-free-ultra-moisturizing-lotion-with-birch-sap/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €18.47 at Amazon

### Weekly

- Pre-Cleanser: [Shu Uemura Ultime8 Sublime Beauty Cleansing Oil](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/shu-uemura/ultime8-sublime-beauty-cleansing-oil/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €40.00 at Amazon
- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €24.75 at Amazon
- Enzyme Powder: [Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/dermalogica/daily-microfoliant/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €49.00 at Amazon
- Cleansing Mask: [VT Cosmetics Cica Purifying Mask](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/vt-cosmetics/cica-purifying-mask/for/oily-skin) — High fit — €19.79 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [La Mer The Tonic](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/la-mer/the-tonic/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €103.91 at Amazon
- Serum or Treatment: [L'Oréal Paris Revitalift Derm Intensives Vitamin C Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/l-oreal-paris/revitalift-12-vitamin-c-e-salicylic-serum/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €14.21 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.it: €15.99 (https://www.amazon.it/dp/B0DTV3VB8B?tag=lovi-care-web-product09-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- Notino: €13.50 (https://www.notino.it/the-inkey-list/ectoin-hydro-barrier-serum-siero-idratante-viso/p-16359304/)
Prices checked 10 Oct – 6 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Glycerin, Propanediol, Betaine, Ectoin, Hyaluronic Acid, Pentylene Glycol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Caprylyl Glycol, Citric Acid, Sodium Citrate, Phenoxyethanol
## About the Lovi Fit

Lovi: Unbiased, science-based skincare AI trained on real user outcomes.

Lovi calculates every fit score from the full ingredient list with brand-independent rules its dermatologists and cosmetic chemists build and review, and personalizes every pick with AI trained on the real results of millions of users. Lovi trains its fit score models on a proprietary dataset built from more than 10,000 expert-labeled products and more than 100,000 simulated examples, following an internally consistent methodology presented at Cosmoprof, AMWC, and Skin of Color Update. Levels from best to worst: Superior, High, Average, Low, Caution, Warning.

Behind this fit score: Nadia Kapleva, MS (Co-founder, Medical Director); Alexey Shagraev, PhD (Co-founder, CEO and CTO); Dr. Sofía Perea Pérez, MD, MSc (Medical Board); Aishani Shah, MD (Medical Board); Asya Zubkova, MS (Medical Board); Hanna Kurets, MD (Medical Board, Medical Advisor); Elina Nazarenko, MD (Medical Board); Victoria Derkova, MS (Medical Board).

Page built Nov 8, 2026.

More from Lovi: https://lovi.care/skincare/llms.txt

## This page in other countries

- United States: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/the-inkey-list/ectoin-hydro-barrier-serum/for/oily-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/the-inkey-list/ectoin-hydro-barrier-serum/for/oily-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/the-inkey-list/ectoin-hydro-barrier-serum/for/oily-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/the-inkey-list/ectoin-hydro-barrier-serum/for/oily-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/the-inkey-list/ectoin-hydro-barrier-serum/for/oily-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/the-inkey-list/ectoin-hydro-barrier-serum/for/oily-skin (this page)
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/the-inkey-list/ectoin-hydro-barrier-serum/for/oily-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/the-inkey-list/ectoin-hydro-barrier-serum/for/oily-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/the-inkey-list/ectoin-hydro-barrier-serum/for/oily-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/the-inkey-list/ectoin-hydro-barrier-serum/for/oily-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/the-inkey-list/ectoin-hydro-barrier-serum/for/oily-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/the-inkey-list/ectoin-hydro-barrier-serum/for/oily-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/the-inkey-list/ectoin-hydro-barrier-serum/for/oily-skin