What is squalene? What are its skin care benefits?

If you look at the ingredients in your skin care products, you may find squalane and squalene in them. Yes, they may sound like the same ingredient, and technically they are, but believe it or not, one letter can make a big difference in where you find it and how you use it. 

Believe me, it's going to get messier before it all makes sense! But don't panic, let's learn more about this wonderful moisturizing molecule. What is the difference between squalene and squalane? Squalene occurs naturally in the body and helps keep skin younger, softer, and more hydrated. 

Like everything else produced in the body, it begins to break down with age and the body can no longer maintain proper moisture levels for the skin barrier, leading to fine lines, wrinkles, and other problems. Applying squalene to the skin should do the trick. 

However, despite its effectiveness, squalene is not very stable and cannot be incorporated into skin care formulations unless it is hydrogenated and processed into squalane (a stabilized form of the squalane molecule). Because of this, the powerful emollient you'll find in skin care products is actually squalane. 

The simplest idea is that squalene and squalane are twins. It's great to have both at the same time, but squalene will keep you clubbing until 6am, and you have to work the next day, while the other squalene will call it a day at a reasonable time. 

While you can get the skincare benefits of a squalane-rich moisturizer, there is a downside to this moisturizing ingredient, and that's because a few years ago it was discovered that shark liver (yes, the sharks you find in the ocean) contains high levels of of squalane. Squalane Squalene is the product of choice for the manufacture of emollients for skin care products. 

In recent years, it has been difficult to find products containing this ingredient in the UK. Instead, squalene derivatives are found and extracted from olives, rice bran, and sugar cane. 

Simple facts about squalene: naturally present in the body. Moisturizes the skin, but the effect will weaken after the age of 30. Found in shark liver, formerly used to formulate skin care products. Natural resources such as rice grains, olives and sugar cane are now used as additives in skin care products 

Very unstable and cannot be mixed into skin care formulations. Squalene must go through a hydrogenation process to become squalane, which is then added to skin care products. What does squalene do for your skin? Squalene is the ultimate moisturizer that helps keep skin hydrated for healthier-looking, brighter-looking skin. 

Antioxidant properties also fight all free radicals that can alter skin's appearance, texture and function. Sun damage and early signs of aging (such as fine lines, wrinkles, and lack of collagen production) are visibly relieved initially with squalane products such as serums and moisturizers. 

Which skin types can use squalene? You'll find that all skin types can benefit from incorporating squalene into your daily routine. Dry skin will love how deeply hydrating it is, while for oily and blemish-prone skin, squalene is a great alternative to nourishing face oils because it's non-comedogenic, meaning it won't clog pores or Causes breakouts. 

Even those with rosacea, eczema, and redness find the anti-inflammatory properties help calm and soothe the complexion. However, those with sensitive skin types will find the product to be unscented and gentle on the skin without fear of irritation, similar to any new product introduced to your skincare routine (especially if you have sensitive skin). skin), it is important to be careful and build tolerance to the product over time. 

How to use squalene? 

You can find hydrosqualene (squalane) in many different products, from cleansers to moisturizers. Since squalene does not cause irritation or other skin problems, there are many products that contain squalene that you can use in your daily life. 

However, if you are concerned that this might be too much for your skin, your best bet is to opt for a moisturizer or serum, as these stay on the skin significantly longer and allow the squalene to retain moisture and rejuvenates the skin. And impart a youthful, plumped complexion. 

Is squalene better than hyaluronic acid? 

Those who know their skin might wonder about the similarities between squalene and hyaluronic acid and their benefits for the skin. Hyaluronic acid is able to penetrate the skin and retain moisture, but unfortunately not for long-term results. For more information on how hyaluronic acid works, see our blog post on the skin care benefits of hyaluronic acid. 

Squalene is compared to hyaluronic acid primarily because of its impressive ability to draw moisture from around the face and lock it into the skin, allowing enough time for it to be fully absorbed and providing a protective barrier. Infused with radiant-boosting hydration. 

What are the dangers of using squalene? 

As mentioned earlier, there is nothing particularly dangerous about using squalene in your skin care regimen. However, even if your skin has never shown signs of sensitivity before, it's a good idea to do a patch test. If you do not experience any irritation or allergic reaction after 24 hours, you can use squalene. 

The only real "danger" of using squalene is trying to find out where the ingredient came from. When buying squalene, always make sure it's plant-based and not derived from shark livers, as this isn't ethical, sustainable, or environmentally friendly. 

So you have another wonderful skincare ingredient to try. A skincare routine for almost anyone, your skin will look younger and healthier thanks to increased moisture. Now you have to admit, that makes up for the somewhat confusing squalane and squalene letter swapping, doesn't it? The results you will see will make it all worth it!