Squalane on the skin for a flawless complexion

One ingredient in skin care products which is very popular nowadays is squalane. This is a natural oil found in some vegetables and animals with lots of benefits for the skin. In this post, we will see what squalane is, how to introduce it in your skincare routine and its benefits of it for the skin. In summary, you will know why you should apply squalane on the skin.

What is the squalane?

First of all, we should differentiate between squalane and squalene. They are very similar but not the same.

Squalene is a natural substance produced by some animals (sharks) or vegetables (sugar cane, olive or rice). Human skin cells have squalene to keep the skin moist. However, squalene production decreases around the age of 30-40 years and it should be included as part of the skincare routine.

Squalane is a compound which comes from squalene. Squalene is prone to oxidation. The hydrogenation of squalene produces squalane, which is more stable and it is more gentle with the skin.

Squalane is a colourless, odourless and viscous oil. It is not susceptible to oxidation and it doesn’t leave a greasy feeling when you apply on to the skin.

Chemically, squalane is a polyunsaturated hydrocarbon from the triterpenoid group (that means it has six double bonds). This lipid is in the natural skin barrier and corresponds to 10-12% of the skin.

First Name

Email address:

Leave this field empty if you’re human:

How to use squalane on the skin

As with any other ingredient, only start using it if your skin is not damaged. It is always better to start using any product in a progressive manner. You can start by applying the product once a week and gradually increase the frequency if you don’t suffer any irritation or adverse reaction.

The best way to apply squalane is after cleansing the skin. It is important to apply sunscreen after using squalane (or any other product). You can apply squalane on its own or mixed with your moisturiser. To apply it on its own, as an oil, add a few drops on your hands, rub them and massage the oil over the face.

You can also add a few drops to your moisturiser and apply both together. Whatever the way you apply it, it is better to apply squalane as the last product in your skincare routine, as squalane is occlusive and will increase the action of the other products applied underneath.

Benefits of the squalane on the skin

The skin produces squalane during our first 30-40 years of life. After this age the production decreases, the skin starts to dry and wrinkles and fine lines appear. Adding squalane to the skin brings a lot of benefits.

• Helps to keep the skin oxygenated
• Helps to keep the skin moist and hydrated. However, squalane is also indicated for oily skin as it doesn’t induce sebum production.
• It is a lightweight oil, non-comedogenic and with anti-inflammatory properties. These properties make squalane ideal for people with acne-prone skin.
• It is also an anti-oxidant and prevents UV damage and, therefore, dark spots. Squalane fights free radicals and may help to light skin pigments.
• Induces collagen production.

• Helps to protect and renew the natural skin barrier.
• It is ideal for people with dry, dehydrated or mature skin.
• It is emollient and occlusive and helps to reduce transepidermal water loss.
• Because the skin produces squalane and it is naturally present, it is compatible with any skin type.
• Finally, it helps to reduce scars and repairs damaged hair.

My favourite squalane products squalane on the skin

As you can see, squalane is a molecule with a lot of benefits and with almost no side effects. It is safe to use and doesn’t leave an uncomfortable feeling on the skin.

Do you use squalane in your skincare routine? Let me know in the comments.