The new beauty secret: Squalane

• October 11, 2020

Have you not heard about Squalane? Well we hadn’t either until recently, and we realize that suddenly everything has squalene oil in it. From face, to hair to sunscreen, it’s now found in a wide range of new beauty product.

Products containing squalane are especially related to moisturizing the skin, managing stubborn acne, and sometimes even antioxidant properties.

So what is squalane?

Squalene is a fatty molecule found in the protective outer layer of the skin. Our body actually produces squalene as part of our skin’s own natural moisture barrier and hydration, but this starts to decline after a certain age.

Our skin loves hydration, that’s why there are so many new methods of extracting squalene. Get this: it used to be extracted from shark livers! But now we get it cruelty-free from plant sources like sugarcane, and even from olives.

So before it can be used, squalene is hydrogenated to become stable and not to spoil quickly, and so it becomes squalane.

But don’t worry, it’s not greasy. In fact, it can squeeze into the tightest spaces between skin cells and make your face feel smoother. So it’s at the same time a very effective hydrator without being too heavy or blocking your pores.

How is it used?

The upside is that it also works very nicely with hyaluronic acid, another mega-hydrator. So while hyaluronic acid attracts water, squalane will seal it into the skin and minimize moisture loss. This will boost collagen and result in firmer looking skin.

So you can apply your favorite skincare product with hyaluronic acid and follow it up with a layer of squalane.

It can also help replenish hair and prevent breakage. Place a few drops of squalane oil into the palm of your hand and massage into your hair to boost moisture before rinsing in the shower.

Who can use it?

Squalane’s molecular makeup is very similar to our own skin’s cell membrane, which allows it to absorb rapidly. Being it’s very unlikely to be an irritant, so it’s an attractive option for those with sensitive skin.

Squalane also has anti-inflammatory properties, so it can soothe a variety of inflammatory skin problems. These include acne, eczema, psoriasis, and rosacea.

Its super lightweight and non-greasy formula, makes it safe for all skin types. So for those with dry or combination skin who are looking to add a lightweight moisturizer may want to check it out.

It will also rarely causes acne or allergic reactions since it’s naturally found in the body, but we advise caution when you have oily skin.

So the next time you go shopping for beauty and skin care products, look for the ones containing squalane. Just please make sure it’s all-natural ingredients, and not from a shark’s liver!