"Squalane is great for softening or smoothing the skin as it may help to support the natural outer barrier of the skin," says Turner. "It is a good option for dry and irritated skin as it has been shown to help calm redness and inflammation. Squalane is non-comedogenic, so it can be used for all skin types.
Squalene (with an “e”) is a lipid produced naturally by your own skin cells. But the amount of squalene your body produces declines with age. Peak production of this natural moisturizer occurs in the teen years, with production slowing down in your 20s or 30s. As a result, your skin becomes drier and rougher.
Squalane oil has excellent emollient properties, meaning it can keep your skin hydrated and moisturized. "Squalane is a great moisturizer as it is easily absorbed and prevents water loss from the skin," says Dr. Birnbaum.
Don't let its name fool you, squalane oil actually reduces shine, all while smoothing fine lines, calming redness, and supporting the skin's barrier. Nourishing dehydrated skin while plumping and smoothing your complexion, squalane oil really nails it when it comes to multitasking.
Not to mention, because we already naturally produce squalene, squalane is super gentle for sensitive skin.” “Squalane is safe to use and beneficial to all skin types, even the most sensitive skin and those prone to acne,” agrees Dr Meder.
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.
If you are using squalane oil and a thick occlusive moisturizer definitely apply squalane oil first. Because of the molecular structure of the ingredient, you would want it to penetrate the skin with minimal obstruction. Then add your moisturizer over top, only do this if you have really dry and dehydrated 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.
For that reason, squalane, she says, makes a great base for actives like retinol and niacinamide. "Niacinamide, in particular, is a great pairing, as both help to repair and promote a healthy, happy skin barrier."
"One of the most sustainable ways to add squalane to your skincare routine is to look for a 100 percent plant-based oil, then use a few drops daily on your skin," says Turner. Once you find your squalane product of choice, Turner says you can add a few drops to your favorite moisturizer.
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.
Yes! You absolutely can use niacinamide and hyaluronic acid together. In fact, this combination can offer a double-whammy of skin hydration as well as a number of other benefits.
Over time, using squalane in skincare can reduce scars, reverse UV damage, lighten freckles and erase skin pigmentation, all while fighting free radicals. 3 On some people it can even be used as a spot treatment.
Squalane oil has several other skincare benefits. A small drop of squalene oil massaged into the skin regularly will help to increase your skin's vibrancy and reduce redness. It also has anti-aging properties and can reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles while repairing the barrier of your skin.
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.
Products that clog pores are known as comedogenic; and, you guessed it, facial oils fit the description. "Many [topical] oils have the potential to clog pores and cause breakouts," says Dr. Love. "So, using oils on acne-prone skin is akin to adding gas to a fire."
The rest of the product then sits atop your face and forms a thin layer of oil, bacteria, and other ingredients. This layer will then clog the pores and whenever cores get clogged, pimples and zits form. So, yes, moisturizer can cause acne but it only typically happens whenever you over-moisturize your skin.
Serum and Moisturizer: 1 minute
Goldenberg's go-to recommendation for timing between serums and moisturizers is about one minute. This wait has the same reasoning: Sixty seconds — give or take — gives each product a moment to delve into your pores.
"If squalene was not hydrogenated, it would oxidize when exposed to air and no longer have its benefits," Dr. Garshick explains. In other words, squalane is a more shelf-stable and effective version of squalene, which is why the former is the version that makes it into our skin-care creams, face serums and oils.
To keep occasional breakouts at bay and to help reduce oil production, introduce the Niacinamide (a vitamin and mineral blemish formula) to banish pimples and congestion while balancing sebum production. Next, layer the Plant-Derived Squalane to help increase moisture levels and prevent skin from over-producing oil.
“Studies suggest you need to use at least 0.25% retinol or 0.025% tretinoin to be effective, so I recommend using a product that specifies the percentage.” When choosing a retinol product, Dr. Rogers says it's best to start with the lowest concentration before moving up. Another thing to consider is your skin type.
The Ordinary Squalane can be used in the morning and or evening on its own or after your water-based products but before heavy creams. Some people apply their oils last, but Deciem says to apply before heavy creams. Squalane is amazing for any dry areas on the body and fabulous for dry lips.
How often should I start with The Ordinary 0.5% Retinol? We recommend slowly incorporating Retinol 0.5% into your routine. You may wish to begin by using it 1-3 times per week.
When it comes to skin care products, it's always best to follow the directions of the product you're using. With that said, there is a general rule about whether to apply oil before or after moisturizer — and it might not be what you think. Generally, you'll want to apply oil as the last step in your routine.