What Is Squalane And What Does It Do For The Skin?

It’s easy to get overwhelmed when trying to choose the right products for your skin care routine. By now, you’re probably familiar with the benefits of popular skin care ingredients like retinol and hyaluronic acid, but what about squalane? Known for its hydrating benefits, it’s no surprise that skin care gurus and brands alike are jumping on the squalane oil bandwagon. Keep reading to learn about the buzzy ingredient, including what squalane is and how to incorporate products formulated with squalane  into your beauty routine.

The Lowdown On Squalane

What is squalane? According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI), squalane is a saturated form of squalene. Look closely—the names are slightly different. See, squalene, emphasis on the 'e,' is naturally produced by the lipids of skin cells and is a component of human sebum. It also can be derived from both animal and plant sources. It’s commonly found in shark liver, but thanks to modern technology, vegan squalane can now be produced more easily, as per the NCBI. 

So, where does squalane come in, you ask? Squalane is formed when squalene undergoes a course of hydrogenation, in which double bonds are eliminated. In turn, squalane is less prone to oxidation than squalene, making it the more common ingredient found in skin care products like moisturizer. In simpler terms, squalane is a derivative of squalene and is more stable in skin care formulations. 

The Benefits Of Squalane

Since squalane is a derivative of human sebum, it makes sense that it’s a popular ingredient in skin care formulas. Below we’re explaining some of the known benefits of squalene, the source from which it is derived.

1. It’s An Emollient 

If you're familiar with emollients, then you know that they help to hydrate skin and improve softness, flexibility, and smoothness. Per the NCBI, squalene is one of the most common lipids (emollients) and is commonly used in skin care products. 

2. It Has Antioxidant Properties 

According to the NCBI, squalene is said to have antioxidant properties that help to protect skin’s surface. Known as a highly effective oxygen-scavenging agent, this ingredient comes in handy to help protect skin from the damaging effects of sun damage and free radicals. If you’re well versed on the topic of anti-aging, then you know that free radicals can cause age spots and premature signs of aging to become more prominent.

3. It’s Anti-Bacterial 

The NCBI states that squalane is anti-bacterial and can be used in treating skin disorders such as acne, seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis and more. We know that acne is often caused by bacteria, so if you struggle with breakouts, incorporating anti-bacterial products into your skin care routine can make a positive difference. 

How To Incorporate Squalane Into Your Skin Care Routine 

Once you’re familiar with the benefits of squalane, you’ll probably want to add it into your routine. Below, we’re sharing how to do so. 

1. Try A Moisturizer Formulated With Squalane 

When it comes to having healthy, glowing skin, moisturizer is key. According to the NCBI, while our bodies naturally produce squalane, the production slows down drastically at age thirty. If you need a moisturizer that can make up for the natural decrease in moisture that comes with aging skin, try the L’Oréal Paris Age Perfect Rosy Tone Moisturizer for Mature, Dull Skin. Formulated with squalane, imperial peony, and lipohydroxy acid, this formula helps to gently exfoliate dull, sallow skin and revive skin’s radiance.

Editor’s tip: If you prefer a fragrance-free moisturizer formulated with squalane, the L’Oréal Paris Age Perfect Rosy Tone Fragrance Free Face Moisturizer is the perfect choice. 

2. Try A Serum Formulated With Squalane

While a moisturizer may be your first line of defense when it comes to tackling hydration, there are other options you can rely on, like face serums. Face serums are ultra-lightweight, highly concentrated skin care products that work to provide skin with a myriad of benefits. Go ahead and add a face serum formulated with squalane oil to your regimen—you can even layer it under your squalane-formulated moisturizer for additional benefits.

3. Try A Squalane Facial Oil

If you have dry skin or simply like incorporating a face oil into your skin care routine for extra hydration or glow, try opting for a squalane facial oil. There are plenty of squalane-based skin care oils on the market which are not only hydrating, but their simple ingredient lists make them an excellent choice if you have sensitive skin, too. 

Next:  Why Grapeseed Oil Is Good For Your Skin

Written by: Alyssa Kaplan, Photo Credit: Chaunte Vaughn