What Are the Benefits of Squalane Oil for Skin? What Does It Do?

Skincare has become indispensable nowadays, and hydration is the most important component of any skincare routine. This is where squalene oil for skin care comes into play. Squalane is a natural substance that is very similar to human sebum and provides significant skin benefits. Read on to learn more about squalene oil and how to use it to improve the health of your skin.

What is Squalene Oil?

Squalene oil is a saturated byproduct of squalene oil, a polyunsaturated hydrocarbon. The human body naturally produces squalene, so its derivative squalene is an excellent moisturizer for hair, skin and nails; our body knows what to do with it.

Like other beautifying ingredients naturally produced by the body, our body’s natural production of squalene begins to decline as we age. This is why science encourages the use of squalene oil as a powerful anti-aging. It has been used to fight cancer among its many benefits, it is an incredible antioxidant, it detoxifies, moisturizes and has emollient activities.

When purchasing this particular oil or a product containing this ingredient, it is important to make sure you are purchasing squalene oil made from hydrogenated squalene oil. If squalene oil is not hydrogenated, it will oxidize and harden when released into the air, negating its benefits for the skin.

Traditionally derived from the livers of deep-sea sharks from the South Pacific, squalene oil has long been used in traditional medicine and is known as a “panacea” in Asian cultures. It has been used as a remedy for many different diseases, from constipation to cancer. Thanks to its experts today, squalene is now harvested from many plant sources including olives, rice bran and sugarcane, making it an eco-friendly option.

What are the Benefits of Squalane Oil for Your Skin?

Your body naturally produces less and less squalene with age, which can cause dry and rough skin. Applying squalene oil, a derivative of squalene, can help nourish and moisturize your skin. You can use squalene directly in its pure form or combine it with other skin-beneficial ingredients.

1. It is natural

While shark liver is the primary source for the production of squalene oil, many plant-based sources are now available. These include wheat bran, olive, sugarcane, rice bran, etc. Most ingredients in skin care products contain mineral oil or petrolatum. But squalene oil is natural. It can also be a vegan ingredient and is a popular alternative if you want to avoid petrochemicals.

2. Suitable for All Skin Types

Squalane is a derivative of a naturally occurring component of sebum. So your skin recognizes it. Squalane is also non-oily and lightweight and suitable even for oily skin. Squalane can easily moisturize your skin and leave it soft and supple.

3. Moisturizes the Skin

Squalane is a modified form of squalene, which is an essential part of our sebum. However, squalene production slows with age, causing the skin to dry out. Because it resembles the natural oils in your skin, squalene works as an effective emollient and helps with skin hydration.

4. Reduces the Appearance of Fine Lines

Squalane oil moisturizes and makes your skin supple. Reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It can also help prevent new fine lines from forming on your skin. However, more research is needed on this subject.

5. It Can Smooth Your Skin

The moisturizing and anti-aging properties of squalene oil can improve your skin texture. Squalane oil is an excellent emollient and using it regularly can make your skin feel smooth. Anecdotal evidence suggests it may also reduce your skin’s pore size and any skin blemishes.

6. May Help Treat Skin Irritation​

Squalane oil has anti-inflammatory properties and can soothe skin irritation. It offers a calming and pleasant feeling. It helps hydrate the skin, soothes flare-ups, and can help relieve symptoms of inflammatory skin conditions such as psoriasis, eczema, and dermatitis. However, more research is needed on this subject.

7. May Help Treat Acne-Prone Skin​

Squalane oil is non-comedogenic and will not clog your skin pores. It is a popular moisturizer choice for all skin types. Also, squalene mimics natural skin sebum. Therefore, as your skin recognizes squalene oil, it tends to reduce sebum production. As a result, it can help reduce acne.

8. May Reduce Dark Spots

Squalane oil has antioxidant properties. It improves the appearance of your skin by reducing the damage caused by sun exposure. It can also reduce dark spots and visibly brighten your skin. However, more research is needed on this subject.