What does ectoine do in eye drops?

In eye drops, ectoine is a potent biological protective and soothing active ingredient that utilizes its natural penetrating protective and anti-inflammatory properties to provide targeted benefits for ocular surface health. Its main mechanism of action is to form a gentle, hydrophilic protective film on the delicate cornea and conjunctiva, locking in moisture, replenishing the eye's natural tear film, and strengthening the ocular barrier—thereby relieving dryness, stinging, burning, and foreign body sensation caused by dry eye syndrome, environmental stress (such as eye fatigue caused by wind, air conditioning, UV radiation, and digital products), or mild eye irritation.