Squalane for Skin: Benefits, How to Use, and More

Despite spending a lifetime in the human body, people are mostly unaware of its many components, such as squalane, which might be a new term for you, but it is a natural oil (sebum) existing in the skin’s epidermis. (1) About 13% of squalane is present in human sebum as a significant constituent.

Squalane is different from squalene. Squalane is a saturated derivative of squalene. And if you are wondering what is used in skin care products, the answer is squalane due to its stable nature.

Squalane has several benefits, such as emollient, (2)  antioxidant, (3) anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, (4) and noncomedogenic. (4) It also detoxifies (5) and heals wounds. (6) 

Squalane’s popularity is rising daily due to its excellent qualities for human skin and hair.

Read on to learn more about squalane.

What Is Squalane and Its Origin?

Squalane is a saturated oil derived from squalene. It is produced by skin cells in the form of natural lipids.

The skin’s sebaceous glands synthesize squalane (around 10%–12%). (6) It keeps the skin healthy and hydrated. However, the production of squalane diminishes with age (after 30 years), leading to wrinkles, dullness, and dryness.

Although an oil, squalane doesn’t have an oily feel. (4) Squalane is a hydrogenated version and a by-product of squalene, meaning it is more stable, as it doesn’t oxidize when in contact with air. Squalane is found in skin care products such as oils, creams, and serums. 

A lot of squalane is plant-derived, and its vegan sources are soyabean oil, wheat germ, sugarcane, olives, peanut, and rice bran. (7)(3) According to a study, lipid derived from olives is safe and compatible with the skin.

Additionally, squalane penetrates the skin at the rate of 2 mm/second, meaning it goes deep into the skin’s layer. (6)

Benefits of Squalane for the Skin

The following are the benefits of squalane for the skin.

1. Hydrates and moisturizes skin

According to a study, squalane keeps the skin hydrated (3)(2) and moisturized (4) due to its emollient property. Squalane prevents moisture loss from the skin (8) and keeps the skin surface hydrated and supple, which makes it an ideal agent for dry skin. (4)

2. Reduces wrinkles and fine lines

Squalane’s antioxidant properties (3)(5) protect the skin from environmental stressors and free radical damage. It reduces wrinkles and fine lines and other signs of aging.

3. Treats acne

Squalane is noncomedonal/noncomedogenic, meaning it doesn’t cause acne or clog pores. It is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive and oily skin. (4)

4. Reduces inflammation

Squalane soothes inflammation, (4) irritation, and redness due to its anti-inflammatory properties. 

5. Protects the skin from bacteria

According to researchers, squalane protects the skin from bacteria (3) and treats acne, psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis, and atopic dermatitis (4) due to its antibacterial property. 

6. Removes toxins and impurities

Researchers report squalane as a detoxifier, (5) which eliminates toxins and impurities from the skin. It stimulates collagen production and improves skin texture and firmness. 

7. Protects the skin against environmental damage

Squalane forms a protective layer on the skin, safeguarding it from environmental damage or moisture loss. It shields the skin from the damaging UV rays, which may cause premature aging and sunburn. (9)

8. Supports wound healing

According to the researchers, squalane is absorbed quickly and penetrates deeply, boosting cell growth. It is also human compatible.

Squalane regenerates tissue and encourages wound healing and the formation of new skin cells. (6)

How to Use Squalane on the Skin?

Follow these steps to use squalane on the skin:

1. Wash your face using a gentle cleanser to eliminate oil, makeup, or dirt. 
2. Apply 4–8 drops of squalane to your face and neck. Mix it with a moisturizer or a serum, or use it alone. You can apply it to other parts of your dry skin, such as the cuticles, knees, or elbows. The nongreasy and lightweight texture of squalane allows it to be absorbed quickly by the skin. 
3. Massage the oil using a facial roller or your fingertips until fully absorbed to stimulate blood circulation. 
4. Use it twice daily, morning and night, for best results.

What Are the Risks of Using Squalane for Skin Care?

Certain risks are associated with squalane application to the skin, including irritation due to allergic reactions, swelling, redness, and itching. 

Note: If you are using squalane for the first time, do a patch test to ensure you aren’t allergic to it. Conduct this test on your inner arm or any part you want to.   

What Skin Type Is Squalane Suitable for?

Squalane is a saturated oil that does wonders for your skin. It mimics the skin’s oil to hydrate and balance any skin type.

Squalane has something in store for you, whether you have dry, oily, sensitive, or combination skin. 

Sensitive skin

Experts claim that squalane is safe for sensitive skin. (4) It can calm and soothe skin that is prone to redness and irritation and protect it from environmental damage due to its anti-inflammatory properties. (9) 

Oily skin

According to researchers, squalane is also suitable for oily skin. It is non-comedogenic, meaning it doesn’t clog pores and cause breakouts. (4) It also regulates oil production if your skin is greasy or shiny and prevents sebum overproduction, thus eliminating acne and keeping the skin matte. (4)

Dry skin

According to researchers, squalane is suitable for dry skin as well. (4) Its excellent emollient properties (2) prevent water loss from the skin (8) and provide intense hydration to tight or flaky skin. (3) 

Combination skin

If your skin is a mixture of different types, squalane can adapt to your skin’s needs. It moisturizes dry skin and nourishes oily skin without making it oilier. (4) Squalane doesn’t have an oily feel as an oil. (4) 

Squalane is a beneficial and versatile ingredient for skin care. It can be used twice daily, morning and night, to protect the skin and provide hydration. You can pair it with AHAs, BHAs, or retinol to alleviate irritation and improve its effectiveness. 

What Are the Factors That Affect Squalane Production?

Experts report that exposure to environmental stressors, radiation, and certain chemicals (8) affects squalane production adversely.

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Final Word

Squalane is an excellent natural moisturizer that benefits the hair and skin in many ways. It softens, hydrates, and smoothens out the skin and shields it from aging and environmental stressors. It preserves your skin’s barrier, calms inflammation, and works well with other active ingredients.

It doesn’t matter if your skin is sensitive, oily, or dry – squalane is an ingredient that can help you achieve a radiant and healthier complexion no matter your skin type. Give this ingredient a try and see the noticeable difference yourself.