Squalane is one of the natural ingredients in cosmetics – even if it doesn't sound so natural at first glance. :) Squalane can not only protect the skin from drying out but also make it silky soft. Therefore, squalane is particularly recommended for people with dry and very sensitive skin, such as those with neurodermatitis or rosacea. Here, we'll tell you everything about the origin, effect, and application of this "miracle cure for very sensitive skin."
What is Squalane?
Squalane is a naturally occurring lipid that can be obtained from various oils. In the cosmetics industry, plant-based squalane is predominantly derived from press residues of olive oil or amaranth oil. Due to its light texture and diverse benefits for skin and hair, squalane is gaining increasing popularity in the cosmetics industry.
How does Squalane Oil work?
Squalane is known for penetrating the skin easily without leaving a greasy film. This makes it an ideal moisturizer that keeps the skin supple without clogging pores. Another advantage of this ingredient is its antioxidant effect. It protects the skin from free radicals, which can cause premature skin aging. With regular use, the skin can appear significantly healthier and more radiant.
Which skin types is Squalane suitable for?
Essentially, squalane is suitable for all skin types. It resembles the skin's natural sebum and is therefore very well tolerated. Its moisturizing properties also make squalane particularly beneficial for dry and very sensitive skin, such as that affected by neurodermatitis, rosacea, or acne.
Squalane – also for hair?
Squalane is a true all-rounder. In addition to its use in skincare, squalane also proves to be an excellent ingredient for hair care products. It can help revitalize dry hair and sustainably improve its shine.
Squalane, Squalane, or Squalene – what's the difference?
Perhaps you've encountered different terms in connection with care products? "Squalan" is the common German term for the ingredient, but in the ingredient list of your cosmetic product, it is referred to as "Squalane" according to the INCI (International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients). Squalene, on the other hand, is the untreated raw material that also occurs naturally in the human body. It is formed as an intermediate product in cholesterol metabolism and is an integral component of the skin's natural sebum protective layer. For cosmetic use, squalene is hydrogenated to squalane.
Do you have any further questions about squalane? Feel free to get in touch!
Sources:
Dr. Heim, N. Neurodermitis - das utopische Ekzem, online at https://www.rosel-heim.de/pdf/Neurodermitis.pdf (January 26, 2024)
European Commission. Ingredient: Squalane, online at https://ec.europa.eu/growth/tools-databases/cosing/details/38226 (January 26, 2024)
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Kim SK, Karadeniz F. Biological importance and applications of squalene and squalane. Adv Food Nutr Res. 2012;65:223-33. doi: 10.1016/B978-0-12-416003-3.00014-7. PMID: 22361190.
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