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As you keep up to date with the ever-evolving game of beauty, you will hear about many of the ingredients that are believed to be saviors in solving all skin care problems. From retinoids and niacinamides, it can get overwhelming to say the least.
You may have heard of squalane, but what makes it stand out from the crowd is that it is actually naturally produced by your body. Well, something like that. Squalene (that’s on e) comes from the sebum glands and cares for your skin and supports the natural barrier at the cellular level. The skin care gods have bottled this, but in order to make it more stable and effective it goes through a hydration process and it gets dirtyane (with an a this time).
The emollient ingredient mimics the natural oil, increases the moisture supply, makes the skin smoother and acts as a natural antioxidant to protect against harmful UVA, UVB, blue light and other external aggressors. It’s an oil, but it’s light, non-comedogenic, and doesn’t leave a heavy, greasy residue.
We consulted Ramya Viswanathan, Director of New Product Development at Biossance – the brand leading the squalane revolution – to find out more.
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What exactly is squalane and how is it different from squalene?
“The human body produces its own version of squalane (squalene), which is the skin’s own natural moisture. The amount present in your skin decreases with age, making your skin dry and vulnerable. “
Where is squalane obtained from?
“First generation squalane was obtained from shark liver. By creating a better way of making squalane from sustainable sugar cane, we are saving about 2 million sharks annually, a number that continues to grow. “
Now squalane is made from plants and oils such as olives, rice bran, amaranth seeds, wheat germ and sugar cane.
What skin types should squalane use?
“Squalane is a versatile oil that benefits all skin types, even the most sensitive skin. Since it is a natural component of our skin’s moisture barrier, it is recognized by our body, is quickly absorbed and supports the release of other useful skin care ingredients – such as vitamin C. Oily skin types, which are often dehydrated from aggressive, degreasing products, can also benefit from it of squalane, as it is weightless and non-comedogenic, ie it does not clog the pores. “
What does squalane do?
“Squalane is a fantastic ingredient that instantly moisturizes and replenishes the skin’s moisture barrier. This barrier keeps our skin healthy so it can do its very important job of protecting us from the outside world. When our skin’s barrier is compromised – be it from extreme climates or harsh products – it manifests itself in irritation, redness and other sensitive skin problems. Squalane helps to keep your moisture barrier in optimal condition and to keep your skin smooth, soft and looking healthy. “
Where can you use squalane?
“It can be used on the skin, body, and hair.”
Should squalane be combined with other ingredients?
“Squalane continues to be on trend as a powerful skin care ingredient. Squalane is an ingredient that plays well with others and can be used in any skin care routine. Squalane alone has a nice, light texture and we recommend using it as the last step in your skin care routine to lock in long-lasting moisture. “
Biossance Squalane + Vitamin C Serum for dark spots
Leading the game of squalane, Biossance takes a sustainable approach to its skin care label and ingredient sourcing and uses renewable sugar cane. The scientifically run label is environmentally friendly as well as effective, so you always know that you are treating your skin without harming the planet. Choosing just one from the range is not easy.
The brand’s 100% squalane oil is a great choice for an introduction to squalane powerhouse, but our personal favorite is this formulation that combines it with glowing vitamin C and color correcting white shiitake mushrooms. While it fights dark spots, it also brightens, stimulates collagen production, and offers antioxidant protection. The squalane imitates the body’s natural oils, so it is weightlessly absorbed and provides intensive moisture. It also strengthens the other active ingredients to make them more effective.
Biossance
The common 100% vegetable squalane
Apply just a few drops of this ointment to give the skin a welcome boost of moisture. The non-comedogenic formula doesn’t clog your pores, but rather prevents moisture loss and can reduce the possibility of further breakouts. It can be used on all skin types (it works especially well on dry and acne prone skin) and can even be applied to hair to add shine and protect from your heated tools and external aggressors. The formula is quickly absorbed by the skin and is not greasy.
The ordinary
Augustinus Bader The cleansing balm
The beauty team’s darling, Augustinus Bader, is perhaps best known for his “The Cream” or “The Rich Cream,” but it is the Cleansing Balm that makes our vote for its combination of squalane with avocado olive oil and vitamin E. had received. The product effectively removes makeup, grime and grime from the day without the stripping feeling that is often associated with a detergent. Instead, it supplies the skin with nutrients for a true pampering experience with every application. It has a balsamic texture that turns into a milk when combined with water. The product is non-comedogenic, vegan and fragrance-free and can therefore also be used on sensitive skin.
Space NK
Caudalie Toning night cream made of cashmere
Give the skin a charged boost while you sleep by applying this night cream to your dry, dull and dull complexion. The French luxury label combines the anti-aging combination of vegan collagen and resveratrol (an antioxidant from grapes) with the extremely moisturizing duo of olive squalane and hyaluronic acid to make the skin look plump, firm and smooth. The soothing scent is derived from linden and verbena extracts and doesn’t feel overwhelming, but rather helps lull you into a deep sleep. The product also has eco certificates – the packaging is made of glass and is recyclable.
Caudalie
Zelens Z Pure cleansing liquid balm
This cleanser by Zelens puts the powerhouse squalane in the foreground and offers everything you need from the first step of your skin care routine, while providing your skin with a welcome supply of moisture. While it removes all traces of dirt and impurities from the day, it also strengthens the skin’s protective barrier with the aforementioned squalane and the combination of essential oils and shiso – a plant rich in omega-3 fatty acids. It looks like a gel but turns into a milky texture when mixed with water. After the application, your complexion will feel clean and fresh, but also soft, smooth and radiant.
Zelens
Kiehl’s Ultra Face Cream
A hero product in the Kiehl’s range for a long time, did you know that the Ultra Facial Cream contains squalane as an ingredient. The moisturizer strikes the perfect balance between rich and nourishing and feels light at the same time. Squalane extracted from olives acts as a moisture boost, but it also helps the skin retain its natural water to keep your complexion hydrated throughout the day. The formula also contains Glacial Glycoprotein, which is derived from marine glaciers and can thrive in extreme environments, so no matter what your day brings your skin is protected.
Kielshl
Summer Fridays CC Me Serum
This serum from the clean, vegan care label Summer Fridays contains brightening vitamin C. There are two types of the radiant ingredient, which also reduce hyperpigmentation and dark spots. Squalane lovers, fear not, because of course the moisturizing element is included in the formula. It has a protective effect and soothes the skin with the added bonus of clove, coffee and green tea extract. Apply a few drops before your moisturizer.
Summer on Fridays
