Squalane is a stable emollient derived from squalene that provides hydration, supports skin barrier function, and is generally well-tolerated.
Squalane is a stable and saturated hydrocarbon derived from squalene through hydrogenation. It serves as a highly effective emollient in topical skincare, delivering deep hydration, supporting the skin's natural barrier function, and exhibiting potential anti-inflammatory effects. It's generally well-tolerated across skin types and considered non-comedogenic, making it a versatile ingredient for improving skin health and appearance.
Key Information
Outside Body Harmful Score
Common Dosage
Applied topically as needed; no specific oral dosage.
Source Type
natural
Production Process
Squalane is typically produced through the hydrogenation of squalene, often sourced from shark liver oil, olive oil, rice bran oil, or sugarcane. Hydrogenation saturates the molecule, making it more stable and less prone to oxidation.
Use Type
Outside BodyPotential Benefits
Hydration ensures sufficient body water for optimal function, supporting processes like temperature regulation and nutrient transport. It prevents dehydration and associated symptoms like fatigue and cognitive impairment.
Skin protection defends against environmental aggressors like UV radiation and pollution, reducing damage and improving skin health. This involves strengthening the skin barrier, neutralizing free radicals, and reducing UV-induced damage, ultimately leading to improved skin hydration, elasticity, and reduced signs of aging.
Skin Barrier Support enhances and reinforces the skin's natural barrier, protecting against environmental factors and reducing water loss for improved hydration and elasticity. It also supports skin repair and minimizes signs of aging.
Moisturization increases skin hydration by attracting and retaining moisture, strengthening the skin barrier. This prevents dryness and enhances skin health, texture, and appearance.
Non-comedogenic hydration moisturizes skin without clogging pores, preventing breakouts and maintaining a healthy skin barrier. It delivers essential moisture while minimizing the risk of acne formation.
Reishi mushrooms contain triterpenes that may reduce inflammation by modulating inflammatory pathways. This could benefit conditions associated with chronic inflammation.
Squalane hydrates and softens the skin by preventing moisture loss and improving skin texture. It creates a protective barrier that retains moisture and supports the skin's natural lipid barrier.
Non-comedogenic substances are unlikely to clog pores, thus reducing the risk of acne and breakouts. This property is beneficial for individuals with oily or acne-prone skin.
Possible Side Effects
Hypothetically, this substance can cause mild skin irritation with redness, itching, and burning at the application site, resolving on its own.
Skin irritation involves symptoms like redness, itching, and rashes due to contact with irritants, allergens, or environmental factors. Severity varies based on the cause, individual sensitivity, and affected area; persistent cases may lead to secondary infections.
Allergic reactions are adverse immune responses to normally harmless substances, ranging from mild skin irritation to severe anaphylaxis. Symptoms can include skin issues, swelling, breathing difficulties, and anaphylaxis requires immediate epinephrine injection.
Scientific Evidence
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32356353/; https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5796020/
User Reviews
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