In recent years squalane has quickly become one of the must have ingredients in skincare. This multi purpose skin saviour not only moisturizes and hydrates skin but also helps to reduce fine lines and wrinkles as well as calming irritation and redness. If you are looking to improve skin texture, heal sunburn and UV damage, or simply keep your face plumped and glowing, including a squalane-based product into your skincare routine has numerous benefits.
What is Squalane?
Our own skin cells naturally produce a lipid called squalene (with an E) to moisturize and rejuvenate our skin. But by the time we hit our twenties and thirties our bodies ability to create squalene begins to decrease leaving our skin drier and more damaged looking. Squalene is also found in sugarcane, olives, fruits and shark liver. In order for it to be stabilized and used in skincare it needs to be hydrogenated and this is when it becomes squalane (with an A).
What are the benefits of Squalane?
The first step to a glowing complexion is hydrated skin. As our skin starts to slow down its natural production of squalene as we age, including skincare with squalane is essential in order for us to replenish and revitalize our skin to its former glory. Squalane is an amazing emollient so it locks in moisture to ensure the skin stays smooth and healthy. Packed full of antioxidants, squalane helps to protect against free radicals and also boost collagen production.
Here is a guide to the best squalane based skincare products to help you introduce this powerhouse ingredient into your beauty routine.
Tatcha The Dewy Serum
Suitable for all skin types, ”The Tatcha Dewy Serum” is all you’ll need for smoother, plumper and dewier skin. This serum combines sugarcane derived squalane with hyaluronic acid to retain moisture and keep your skin hydrated all day. Plus, it’s gently formulated to be non-comedogenic, non-irritating, and non-sensitizing.
Shop: Tatch The Dewy Serum, $89
Augustinus Bader The Cleansing Balm
A lot of cleansers use ingredients that can be extremely harsh and drying on our skin. “The Cleansing Balm from Augustinus Bader” gently melts into the face to clean away makeup and any impurities to leave your skin clear and refreshed. The ingredients are a mixture of sustainably sourced high potency botanicals such as coconut and avocado oil, vitamin E and squalane to ensure your complexion stays supple and radiant.
Shop: Augustinus Bader The Cleansing Balm, $74
Biossance Squalane and Omega Repair Cream
“The Biossance Squalane and Omega Repair Cream” is a dreamy formula of all the good fats your skin needs to stay plump and luminous. Squalane, omega fatty acids, ceramides and plant sterols all combine to nourish your skin without leaving it feeling greasy. By mimicking and supporting the skin’s barrier it reduces fine lines and wrinkles leaving you with soft, supple and radiant looking skin.
Shop: Biossance Squalane and Omega Repair Cream, $78
The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser
“The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser” has a soap free formula to ensure it is kind and hydrating on the skin. Designed to protect the skin’s barrier by gently dissolving makeup and dirt. It is perfect for daily use.
