We do know that squalane is often found as a moisturizing (or emollient) agent within anti-acne creams and lotions. We also know that it is noncomedonal, which means it doesn't cause acne.
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.
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.
"Squalane is non-comedogenic, so it can be used for all skin types. Those with dry, irritated, or sensitive skin will see the most effect from squalane oil, but we can all benefit from this superstar skincare ingredient."
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.
The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Masque
Salicylic acid also works as an anti-inflammatory, so helps to reduce inflamed pimples. It's especially beneficial for treating blackheads, whiteheads, and pustules, so use this mask when you have a bad breakout to quickly treat active blemishes.
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.
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.
Occasionally, though, serums can actually cause acne—so proceed with caution. "They can lead to breakouts—especially if you're using the wrong one for your skin type," says Green.
“Hyaluronic acid is neither good nor bad for acne,” she says. “However, it can be used incorrectly, or it can be mixed with other ingredients that may not agree with a person's skin and therefore cause a breakout.”
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.
Dr. Michele Green told Bustle that the niacinamide in it "fights acne by reducing inflammation and dark spots. With its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, niacinamide also helps to treat active breakouts." The best of all worlds.
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.
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.
The Ordinary Retinol 0.5% in Squalane
King calls this gel "an excellent retinoid" that can treat both acne and signs of aging because it contains adapalene, a skin care ingredient with an anti-inflammatory effect.
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.
“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."
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.
Most niacinamide products also contain a variety of other ingredients. If any of these ingredients increase skin cell turnover then they may be behind any 'purging'. Some ingredients can also be 'comedogenic' which means that they are more likely to clog pores and cause breakouts.
Niacinamide 10% Zinc 1% is a calming and soothing product that can help reduce the size of your pores and even out your skin tone. It can also reduce the appearance of any marks left over from blemishes on your skin, like red or brown dots.
Notes: While Niacinamide and Zinc PCA reduce the look of blemishes and balance visible sebum activity, neither is a treatment for acne. For persistent acne-related conditions, we recommend the use of Benzoyl Peroxide and/or Retinoic Acid.