If you’ve ever noticed a skincare ingredient called “squalane” in your products and perhaps googled it, you may have come across both the words “squalane” and “squalene”. If you thought they were the same ingredient, then you’re wrong. This single letter has a major impact on the stability of the compound. So, before we start describing the effects of squalane, let’s talk about the difference between squalane and squalene.
Squalane is a hydrogenated form of squalene. Squalene is a lipid (fat) found naturally in the skin and secreted by our sebaceous glands. However, squalene is not stable enough for use in skincare products, so it is modified to make it last longer. This modified version is called squalane – and you can find it in both skincare and haircare products.
Characteristics of squalane
Since the squalane in skincare products mimics our skin’s own natural oils, it is highly effective. It is a premium anti-ageing hydrating ingredient for all skin types. It is also an incredibly lightweight oil, which is a great addition to your skincare routine. It is non-greasy and provides moisture without the added weight that some oils and oil-based products create.
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