Ingredient Spotlight: Squalane 101

Squalane is to moisture what hyaluronic acid is to hydration. Dry skin will drink up this moisturizing superstar.

There’s a difference between moisture and hydration when it comes to skin. When skin is lacking in moisture (aka dry skin), it needs oil. When skin is lacking in hydration (aka dehydrated skin), it needs more water. Dry skin is usually a sign of inadequate moisture, so facial oils, serums, and moisturizers containing oils may be just what the skin needs.

Many people with dry skin or those who want to bump up their skin’s moisture levels look into squalane. This moisturizing ingredient is commonly found in pure oils, facial serums, face creams, eye creams, and more.

Here’s why squalane is becoming increasingly popular in the beauty community and may deserve a step in your skincare routine.

What is Squalane?

Squalane is an oil that is commonly used in moisturizing skincare products. It’s an effective moisturizer because it mimics the skin’s natural oils, according to Healthline. Squalane is classified as an emollient, a type of ingredient that softens and smooths dry skin.

Squalane is a hydrogenated version of squalene, a compound produced naturally by the skin. Specifically, squalane is found in sebaceous glands, which help keep the outer layer of skin moisturized. Approximately 13 percent of human sebum contains squalene. Researchers describe squalane as a more saturated version of squalene and note that it is less prone to oxidation.

Is Squalane Safe?

Squalane receives a positive safety grade from the Good Face Project. Squalane has been proven to be an effective moisturizing ingredient in skincare. There is low evidence that squalane is harmful to the human body. In fact, studies have concluded that squalane is a safe cosmetic ingredient. Since it’s similar to squalene produced naturally in the skin, the chances of irritation or an allergic reaction are low.

Skin Benefits of Squalane

The benefits of squalane mainly relate to moisturizing dry skin. It is also beneficial for protecting and repairing the skin.

Moisturize Dry Skin

Squalane is a natural emollient that locks moisture into the skin. It softens dry patches and makes skin feel smooth and plump. Squalane can also help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

While it’s an effective moisturizer for dry skin, oily skin needs moisture, too. Oily skin may be lacking in water, not oil. Though it seems counterintuitive, applying an oil like squalane can help skin achieve the optimal balance of water and oil.

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Antioxidant Properties

Squalene is a natural antioxidant, so it is likely that its counterpart squalane has antioxidant properties as well. Antioxidants protect against free radical damage caused by prolonged exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet rays, pollution, and other environmental aggressors. Since free radical damage can lead to premature aging, incorporating antioxidants is an important part of any skincare routine.

Reduce Inflammation

Squalane has anti-inflammatory properties that contribute to alleviating skin redness. Since it can reduce inflammation, squalane is suitable for sensitive skin and people with skin conditions like rosacea.

How to Use Squalane

You can use pure squalane oil on its own or skincare products that contain squalane as one of many ingredients. Unlike ingredients like retinol or chemical exfoliants that should not be combined with certain ingredients, you can use squalane with many other ingredients and product types.

Squalane is great for layering with other moisturizing products. To use squalane, be sure to properly cleanse and prep your skin. The proper order of skincare products depends on the type of products you’re using. Remember to apply serums, moisturizers, and eye creams before facial oils.

Who It’s For

Squalane is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin. It’s especially beneficial for people with dry skin since it provides the moisture content that dry skin is lacking. However, moisture is beneficial for all skin types.

There is a misconception that squalane and other oils are not suitable for people with oily skin because they’re too heavy. One key aspect of squalane oil is that it is lightweight and does not feel greasy, so it’s comfortable on oily skin.

FAQ

Where does squalane come from?

Squalane is the hydrogenated counterpart to squalene, a natural type of oil found within animal skin. Squalane is a vegan-friendly ingredient, so it does not come from animal sources. Squalane can be derived from various plants, including sugarcane, rice bran, olives, and more.

What is the difference between squalane and squalene?

Will squalane clog my pores?