You’ve heard of aloe vera and probably know hyaluronic acid. You also know that retinol has been one of the buzzwords in the skincare world for a number of years. But do you know what squalane is?

Squalane is a powerful ingredient that moisturizes and repairs your skin. While the list of squalane benefits is long, here are the ins and outs of this flagship ingredient. 

What is squalane?

Squalane is a natural ingredient derived from scales in our bodies. It is one of the most common lipids produced by our skin cells and an important part of our sebum. Our sebum contains between 14 and 16% of it. It’s also a fat-soluble ingredient, which is why it can be a part of oil-based skincare.

Squalane is a hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic, colorless ingredient that doesn’t irritate your skin, while its texture is soft and won’t clog your skin’s pores. So light and yet so strong!

What does squalane do for the skin?

moisturizer

Since squalane is a natural component of sebum, it strengthens the skin barrier and helps the skin retain moisture. It also helps your skin stay free of impurities and pollutants. Squalane-based moisturizers are ideal for all skin types, but especially dry skin.

Anti-aging effect

Squalane is known as a powerful antioxidant that fights free radicals, or culprits that speed up the aging process. This magical ingredient penetrates deep into the skin and spreads perfectly over the entire surface, reducing fine lines and wrinkles. That’s why squalane is the key ingredient in FOREO SERUM SERUM SERUM, a microencapsulated formula that stays trapped under the skin for longer.

Anti-stain treatment

It’s also a great ally to unify your complexion by helping your skin eliminate imperfections, spots or scars. Hence, it is one of the commonly used ingredients in anti-skin spot products and treatments.

Antibacterial ingredient

Being antibacterial, squalane is perfect for skin care for acne or eczema prone skin. It cleanses the skin while regulating excess sebum production.

A protection for the hair

Using squalane for hair is one of the best things you can do when it comes to hair care. It gives your hair a silky and non-greasy feel while helping to boost scalp hydration. Your hair will be revitalized, shiny and beautiful.

Texturmittel

It is often used as a texturizing agent in many makeup products such as lipstick, eye shadow, mascara or foundation. It gives a natural finish without an oily shine and makes application of certain products easier and smoother. In addition, thanks to squalane, the pigments of the make-up product are better distributed.

Where is squalane found?

shark liver

Fun fact! Squalene is one of the main components of shark liver and derived squalane is what we are talking about. Although there are many less barbaric ways of delivery, many manufacturers still use shark liver as their main source. So before you start using a product, do your research and check if the product is cruelty-free.

Plant

Squalene is found in olive oil, rice, sugar cane, palm oil or beets. It is obtained from these vegetables and grains by distillation.

hydrocarbon synthesis

Finally, there is synthetic squalane, which is produced through a complex process that relies on the conversion of hydrocarbons to obtain synthetic squalane molecules.

Your skin will thank you

This magic ingredient is definitely an ingredient that will become more and more popular in the future due to its anti-inflammatory, anti-aging, moisturizing and many more properties. Include it in your skincare routine and your skin (and hair!) will thank you later.