Dermatologists recommend squalane oil for all skin types. It can even be used by people who have oily skin as it is lightweight and isn't greasy. This means that it's unlikely to clog the skin's pores and won't cause breakouts.
Because squalane is a part of sebum and excess sebum can contribute to acne, you probably want to exercise some caution with it if your skin tends to be oily or acne-prone, Dr. Stevenson says. You're likely making plenty of sebum already and adding more could just cause breakouts.
Can squalane play a role in actively fighting acne? It isn't clear. But it's presence in acne moisturizers is unlikely to worsen your condition and its noncomedogenic properties mean it could be safe sensitive skin.
Squalane is compatible with most skin types because it occurs naturally in healthy skin. It is fast-absorbing and lightweight, making it a great choice for acne-prone or oily skin.
Please note that squalene oil can exacerbate fungal acne with an “e” in the middle. However, squalane oil, the version of the oil found in skincare, is good for treating fungal acne. It also restores skin and serves as a UV protectant, making it a great moisturizer.
“Squalane is really important because it can greatly help reduce spots and acne scars, since it's essentially a composite of your own skin,” says Lee. Our bodies naturally produce squalane into our twenties, explains Lee, but once that production slows, fine lines start appearing.
While both types of moisturizers have their place, squalane will prevent your skin from losing its water content. The workhorse oil is also thought to be non-comedonal (non-pore clogging) and have antibacterial properties.
The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2% + Hyaluronic Acid
Alpha Arbutin helps to reduce the appearance of spots and hyper-pigmentation. I use this a couple of times a week in my PM skincare routine to help lessen the appearance of my acne scars and it has helped lighten them.
Applying retinol is a long-term treatment which promotes fresh skin, fewer blemishes and reduction in acne breakouts. Whereas in the short term, it can lead to acne breakouts, skin peeling, dryness, and a range of other frustrating temporary outcomes. The purge phase usually lasts for two to six weeks.
Squalene would be found in fresh extra virgin olive oil. Olive oil which is rancid or has unacceptable flavors is deodorized using distillation. The resultant oil is called "Pure" or "Refined" olive oil. Squalene is removed during the refining process and is concentrated in the distillate.
No matter your skin type, anyone can benefit from adding a squalane-based oil cleanser to their skincare routine. Made with olive-derived squalane, this cleansing oil-gel washes away makeup and oil without stripping the skin.
It moisturizes skin.
Squalane serves as a lightweight moisturizer and leaves skin hydrated, supple, and luminous. Because it's so similar to your skin's own oil, it tends to provide just the right amount of moisture without over(or under)doing it.
Both are naturally occuring, and present in the human body, but they both do slightly different jobs. While Hyaluronic Acid increases skin's water content, Squalane acts as a barrier, keeping moisture locked in and hydrating at a cellular level.
Skin purging is an initial bout of acne that can occur when you start using a new, active skincare product that increases your cell turnover. Certain topical ingredients, such as acids and retinoids, make you shed dead skin cells at a faster rate than normal.
“Purging” is another term for breakouts, though there are some differences. Though some people do report experiencing irritation and breakouts after using the ingredient, niacinamide is unlikely to cause purging. That's because it doesn't affect the skin in a way that usually triggers purging.
Niacinamide helps build cells in the skin while also protecting them from environmental stresses, such as sunlight, pollution, and toxins. Treats acne. Niacinamide may be helpful for severe acne, especially inflammatory forms like papules and pustules. Over time, you may see fewer lesions and improved skin texture.
Hyaluronic acid is known for its soothing and hydrating properties. It helps in improving the acne marks and reduces inflammation as well. Skincare products with hyaluronic acid are a great way to tackle it.
CeraVe is the #1 dermatologist-recommended moisturizer brand for acne*, and our new Acne Control Cleanser with 2% salicylic acid is formulated to clear acne, reduce blackheads and improve the appearance of pores, while purifying clay helps absorb excess oil.
The Ordinary 100% Plant-Derived Squalane
It's non-comedogenic, won't clog pores, and regulates oil production, making it suitable for all skin types, especially oily and acne-prone skin.
Birnbaum. "While most oils clog pores, squalane is one of the few that may be used even on acne-prone skin." Similarly, Dr. Ciraldo recommends squalane oil for all skin types, even oily skin, noting that it's lightweight and non-greasy, so it's unlikely to clog pores or lead to breakouts.
Since Squalane + Phyto-Retinol Serum does not contain any retinol or retinoids, it does not have the same contraindications as retinol. However, as with any product applied to the skin we recommend checking with your doctor before using while pregnant or breastfeeding.
“Squalane is safe to use and beneficial to all skin types, even the most sensitive skin and those prone to acne,” agrees Dr Meder. “It is also hypoallergenic – there is no known allergy to squalane because of its skin-identical nature."