Many of us search for the answer to clear skin, but the key to flawless skin is simple — it’s moisture. During the cold autumn weather, however, applying loads of your favorite moisturizer might not be enough, which is why you need an ingredient that provides moisture and protection, especially as we approach the colder seasons. One such ingredient that might do the trick is squalene.
Have you never heard of squalene? Well if you haven’t, it has been used in the skincare market for years and it hasn’t received a lot of attention until recently. But what is it? And what do the benefits of squalene mean for your skin?
What Is Squalene?
Despite the name of this ingredient sounding like a type of squid, squalene is actually a colorless poly-unsaturated liquid that is naturally found in many animals and plants, including the sebum within our skin. Squalene is a natural substance that we produce in our own bodies, but as we get older the amount of squalene we produce goes down.
As a matter of fact, 12 percent of our skin’s surface is made of squalene during birth, but as we reach our mid-to-late 20s, our production begins to decline, which is why it is important to find ways to add squalene to your lifestyle through diet or skincare products.
Difference Between Squalene and Squalane
You may have heard of squalane and thought it might be the same as squalene. While they sound exactly the same and are natural substances that can both moisturize the skin, squalane is a derivative of squalene. Squalene was traditionally made from shark livers, but after sharks nearly became extinct as a result of their squalene content, scientists later found plant-based sources of squalene.
However, squalene isn’t stable enough to use in skincare products to keep on the shelves, but squalane is a more stable form of this molecule because it has been hydrogenated. And, when added to skincare products, it can host a variety of benefits for the skin.
Skincare Benefits of Squalene
Forms of squalene are used in skincare products as an emollient and a natural antioxidant. It possesses anti-inflammatory properties and has been historically used in the medical field to heal wounds and treat skin conditions.
Since squalene has the same molecular structure as our skin, squalene oil has the ability to penetrate the skin, getting deep into your pores while targeting your skin issues on a cellular level. Squalene also fights free radicals that can damage the skin and contribute to signs of aging.
It also balances the skin’s oil production, which gives your skin the right amount of moisture to maintain clear and healthy skin. Squalene oil has strong anti-aging properties that help slow down the aging process of your skin and also contains anti-inflammatory benefits that help fight acne and eczema.
Last, but certainly not least, this particular oil helps boost blood circulation that promotes the formation of collagen and provides the skin with a more supple and radiant glow. Squalene isn’t as readily available as other skincare products like hyaluronic acid, but it can be purchased from some online retailers. Just make sure you read the labels to find one of the highest quality possible.
The content of this Website is for informational purposes only, is general in nature and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease, and does not constitute professional advice. The information on this Website should not be considered as complete and does not cover all diseases, ailments, physical conditions, or their treatment. You should consult with your physician before beginning any exercise, weight loss, or health care program and/or any of the beauty treatments.
References
Annmarie Skin Care. “The Difference Between Squalane and Squalene.” Annmarie Skin Care, Annmarie Skin Care, 12 Oct. 2017, www.annmariegianni.com/difference-between-squalane-and-squalene/.
Lebsack, Lexy. “What’s Squalene and Why Should You Care?” Byrdie, Byrdie, 8 Sept. 2017, www.byrdie.com/best-products-squalane-squalene-difference-dry-skin-2014.
