Beauty
Meet the soothing and moisturizing beauty superstar.
When you think of moisturizing ingredients that quench dry skin, classics likehyaluronic acidandaloe veramight come to mind.
Or perhaps you envision yourrosewater mistortub of ultra-hydrating Vaseline.
But theres also squalane for skin, which can do plenty of great things to your beauty regimen.
Squalane is not to be confused with squalene, however, though theyre often conflated.
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Squalene isproduced by sebaceous glandsand found in the skin,Dr.
Squalene and sebum help to keep the skin moisturized.
Since your squalene levels deplete as you age, you have drier skin when you get older.
Hence: Beauty consumers turning to supplemental squalene which is usually squalane into their skin care routines.
If squalene was not hydrogenated, it would oxidize when exposed to air and no longer have its benefits.
As a result, squalane may be considered more stable, she says.
Squalene is also a highly controversial ingredient because, historically, its been harvested from shark liver oil.
Squalane Benefits For Skin
The main perk of using squalane is its hydrating prowess.
Using squalane is thought to help replenish our natural oils bymimicking our natural sebum, says Garshick.
It can work for hair, nails, and skin.
Its now in hair care, skin care, bath, and body, he tells Bustle.
Squalane is also known to be soothing for the complexion.
Squalane is an amazing anti-inflammatory, says Spinnato.
Because of this, its a great ingredient to use if yourskin barrieris damaged.
Squalane is perfect to address the immediate concerns of clients with this condition as it provides ample hydration.
According to Spinnato, squalane can also help other ingredients in your skin care product work more effectively.
Who Should Use Squalane?
Generally speaking, experts suggest squalane for those looking toincrease moisture in their skin.
If your skins on the sensitive side, try this gentle serum, which also contains moisturizingaloe vera.
While it can be used once or twice daily, Garshick suggests using it in the morning.
Studies referenced:
Makrantonaki, E., Ganceviciene, R., & Zouboulis, C. (2011).
An update on the role of the sebaceous gland in the pathogenesis of acne.
Lipophilic antioxidants in human sebum and aging.
Solvent-Free Chemoselective Hydrogenation of Squalene to Squalane.
This article was originally published onNovember 24, 2021
