What’s Squalene Good For in Skincare? -

Squalene has quickly become a beloved ingredient in skincare, celebrated for its versatility and impressive benefits. Squalene offers many advantages for all skin types, whether found in facial oils, moisturizers, or serums. What’s squalene good for in skincare? We’ll review everything you need to know.

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What is Squalene?

Squalene is a natural, plant-derived, or synthetically produced compound that belongs to a class of lipids known as triterpenes. It’s a highly effective emollient and antioxidant, perfect for skincare products.

Squalene is a naturally occurring substance produced by the sebaceous glands in the skin. It helps maintain the skin’s moisture barrier and supports its overall health. However, squalene production decreases as we age, leading to dryness and fine lines.

To combat this, skincare brands have turned to plant-based sources of squalene, such as olives, sugarcane, and rice bran, to recreate its nourishing effects on the skin.

Squalene vs. Squalane

You may have encountered “squalene” and “squalane” in skincare products. While these two terms are related, they are not the same. In its natural form, Squalene is unstable and oxidizes quickly, which is why it’s converted into squalane for use in skincare.

Squalane is the hydrogenated (stable) version of squalene. It is more stable, resistant to oxidation, and has a longer shelf life, making it ideal for skincare use. So, when you see squalane in your favorite products, rest assured that it’s the more stable, skin-friendly form of squalene.

Benefits of Squalene in Skincare

Moisturizes the Skin

What’s squalene good for in skincare? One of the key benefits of squalene is its ability to hydrate the skin deeply. As a lightweight, non-comedogenic oil, it penetrates quickly into the skin without leaving a greasy residue, making it ideal for all skin types, including oily and acne-prone. Squalane mimics the skin’s natural oils, helping restore moisture and prevent water loss, essential for maintaining a plump complexion.

By replenishing the skin’s moisture barrier, squalane improves overall skin texture, leaving the skin feeling soft and smooth. This makes it an excellent option for anyone struggling with dry, dehydrated skin or flaky patches.

Fights Free Radical Damage

Squalane is also a potent antioxidant, which helps neutralize free radicals—unstable molecules that can damage skin cells and accelerate signs of aging. Environmental stressors such as pollution, UV rays, and smoking generate free radicals, which contribute to premature aging and skin damage.

By protecting the skin from oxidative stress, squalane helps prevent fine lines, wrinkles, and other signs of aging, promoting a youthful and healthy-looking complexion. Its antioxidant properties also assist in soothing irritated skin, reducing inflammation, and protecting the skin from environmental damage.

Supports the Skin’s Natural Barrier

The skin’s natural barrier protects it from external irritants and retains moisture. Squalane helps to enhance this barrier function, making it a great ingredient for dry or sensitive skin. As it mimics the skin’s oils, squalane can reinforce the skin’s defense against pollutants, bacteria, and other harmful elements while helping to lock in moisture.

For those with compromised skin barriers, such as those suffering from eczema or rosacea, squalane is a gentle and soothing ingredient that can help calm redness and irritation. Its ability to balance the skin’s oil production without causing breakouts makes it especially beneficial for sensitive or reactive skin.

Anti-Aging Properties

As we age, the skin’s production of squalene decreases, contributing to dryness, loss of elasticity, and the formation of fine lines and wrinkles. By replenishing the skin’s natural squalene levels, squalane helps restore moisture, smooth the appearance of fine lines, and boosts skin elasticity.

Regularly using squalane-based products can help improve skin texture and promote a more youthful, plump appearance. Whether dealing with early signs of aging or simply looking to maintain a glowing, healthy complexion, squalane is a potent ally in your anti-aging skincare routine.

Non-Irritating and Suitable for Sensitive Skin

Squalane is an incredibly gentle ingredient, making it perfect for sensitive skin. Unlike other oils that may clog pores or cause irritation, squalane is lightweight, non-comedogenic, and non-irritating. It hydrates the skin without causing breakouts, making it a safe option for people with acne-prone or easily irritated skin.

Additionally, because it’s a natural component of the skin, squalane works in harmony with your skin’s oils to balance hydration levels, making it a great choice for anyone struggling with dryness or excess oil production.

Helps with Acne and Redness

Although it’s an oil, squalane can benefit those with oily or acne-prone skin. By providing hydration and reinforcing the skin’s moisture barrier, squalane helps to reduce the production of excess sebum, which is often a trigger for acne. As a result, it can help prevent clogged pores and breakouts.

Additionally, squalane has anti-inflammatory properties that can calm redness, irritation, and inflammation, making it a great option for those with inflammatory conditions like acne, rosacea, or eczema.

How to Incorporate Squalane into Your Skincare Routine

Once you find out what’s squalene good for in skincare, it’s essential to learn how to include it in your skincare routine. Squalane can be used in various ways, depending on your skincare needs. Here are some tips for incorporating this versatile ingredient into your routine:

Serums and Oils: Squalane is commonly found in serums and facial oils, which can be applied directly to the face after cleansing and toning. Simply apply a few drops to the skin and massage it gently.
Moisturizers: Many moisturizers also contain squalane, making it easy to hydrate and nourish your skin while locking in moisture. Use it as your final step in your skincare routine for a smooth, supple finish.
Spot Treatments: Squalane’s soothing properties make it a great option for treating dry, flaky spots or calming irritated skin. Apply it to specific areas where your skin needs extra hydration or relief.
Eye Creams: Squalane can also be found in some eye creams, helping to hydrate the delicate skin around the eyes and reduce the appearance of fine lines and puffiness.

One Of Our Favorites

Skin Euphoria Daily Skin Perfecting Serum

Skin Euphoria Daily Skin Perfecting Serum is carefully formulated to give your skin the perfect blend of ingredients to help fight the visible signs of aging while keeping your skin hydrated. Hyaluronic acid and squalene give your skin a deep dose of hydration while willow bark water helps keep your skin clean and clear. Bakuchoil and peptides promote a youthful complexion.

Why You’ll Love It

Lightweight
Non-greasy
Can be worn under makeup
Minimizes pores

Check it out here!