Of late, everyone seems to be obsessed with this new and cool skincare ingredient called ‘squalane’. In a nutshell, it’s a powerful ingredient that helps to hydrate, moisturise and repair sun-damaged skin. To understand what ‘squalane’ is, let’s first understand what its natural organic compound ‘squalene’ is.
It’s basically an oily liquid hydrocarbon that’s naturally found in animals, plants and human sebum. Our bodies produce it naturally and one of its main jobs is to hydrate the skin and strengthen the skin’s outer barrier. After we reach 30, our body’s ability to naturally produce squalene and collagen decrease. In order to use squalane as a beauty product, the ingredient ‘squalene’ goes through a process called hydrogenation.
Everything You Need To Know About Squalane
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Another skincare ingredient that hydrates and nourishes the skin is hyaluronic acid, however, it’s not the same as squalane. Hyaluronic acid is a humectant that attracts water and delivers it to the surface of the skin, while squalane is an emollient that seals in the moisture and prevents it from leaving the skin. However, both skincare ingredients have the power to moisturise and hydrate the skin making it supple and baby soft.
What exactly does squalane do for your skin?
- Restores moisture in the skin
- Fights free radicals
- Maintains hydration
- Is a natural antioxidant that repairs sun-damaged skin
- Helps improve skin conditions such as acne and eczema
Which Skin Type Does It Suit The Most?
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While squalane agrees with all skin types, dry skin benefits from it the most. Skin that’s dry is more prone to premature ageing and pigmentation – squalane will take care of that bit. Even women living in concrete jungles where the pollution levels are high can benefit from this because squalane helps fight free radicals that are formed by cigarette smoke, smog, dust and dirt. However, when it boils down to oily skin, less is more. Since its part of sebum, excess of it can clog the pores and cause acne.
When To Apply Squalane?
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After you’ve cleaned and toned your skin, apply a hydrating mist or serum and then apply not more than 2-3 drops of squalane all over your face and under-eye area. Your moisturiser should be your next product after squalane.
Note: Just FYI, you can use squalane by itself or also cocktail it with other skincare products like hyaluronic acid or your moisturiser. It’s meant to be used once at night and once in the morning.
Now that you’re all caught up, will you be taking it for a spin?
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