Skincare comes in many forms and often with varying beauty ingredients, such as squalane oil, which offers several benefits.
What is squalane oil?
Squalane oil is a versatile skincare ingredient found in many moisturizing products, including serums, anti-aging creams, and lotions for dry skin. It acts as an emollient, similar to the skin's natural oils, helping to prevent moisture loss.
Chemically, squalane is a hydrocarbon, composed of hydrogen and carbon, and it is a modified form of squalene, a key component of human sebum. Traditionally derived from shark liver oil, squalane is now commonly sourced from plants like olive, sugarcane, wheat bran, rice bran, and amaranth oils for vegan alternatives.
Benefits of Squalane Oil to Skin
Squalane oil offers numerous benefits for skincare, making it a popular choice in moisturizing products.
Hydrates Skin
One of its key advantages is its ability to hydrate the skin effectively, helping improve moisture retention and prevent dryness. This is especially beneficial for those with dry or dehydrated skin, as squalane can provide long-lasting hydration without feeling heavy or greasy.
Nourishes Without Clogging
Squalane oil is non-comedogenic, meaning it won't clog pores or contribute to acne breakouts, making it suitable for oily and acne-prone skin.
Great for Sensitive Skin
Another benefit of squalane oil is its versatility, as it is suitable for many different skin types. Because squalane oil mimics the skin's natural oils, it is generally well-tolerated and can be used by those with sensitive or easily irritated skin. Experts believe that squalane may be beneficial for hydrating dry skin, soothing eczema-prone skin, and reducing irritation in sensitive skin.
Smoothes Skin
In addition to its hydrating properties, squalane oil also has skin-smoothing benefits. As a powerful emollient, squalane can help soften and smooth the skin's texture, leaving it looking and feeling more supple. Its lightweight and non-greasy texture makes it an excellent choice for anyone with rough or uneven skin.
Antioxidant
Furthermore, squalane oil has antioxidant properties that help protect the skin from environmental stressors and free radicals. Free radicals can cause damage to the skin's cells, leading to premature aging and other skin concerns. By neutralizing these free radicals, squalane oil helps keep the skin looking younger and healthier.
Valuable Routine Addition
Overall, squalane oil is a valuable addition to skincare routines, offering hydration, protection, and anti-aging benefits for healthier-looking skin. Whether you have dry, oily, or sensitive skin, squalane oil can be a beneficial ingredient to incorporate into your skincare regimen.
Products with Squalane Oil
CeraVe offers several skincare products featuring squalane oil, developed with dermatologists to reduce moisture loss and restore the skin's protective barrier. Its Hydrating Foaming Oil Cleanser is ideal for dry to very dry skin, effectively cleansing without greasy residue. The Skin Renewing Day Cream targets signs of aging with squalane, encapsulated retinol, and SPF 30.
Kiehl's Midnight Recovery Botanical Cleansing Oil combines squalane, lavender, and evening primrose oils for soft, clean skin. Additionally, Kiehl's Lip Balm #1 contains squalane, lanolin, and aloe vera to nourish and hydrate lips.
