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Welcome to the ingredient deep dive where we shine a light on some of our more popular skincare ingredients. We’ll be looking at a versatile and nourishing ingredient that seems to be everywhere these days: Squalane.
If you’ve ever found yourself asking what is Squalane? Why is it everywhere? And how does it help? We have the answers for you.
What is Squalane?
Let’s start off with the basics, what is Squalane? Squalane is also an exceptional hydrator that mimics your skin’s natural oils. It keeps your skin hydrated while supporting your skin’s natural moisture barrier.
Although it looks and feels like an oil, you may have noticed that our 100% Plant-Derived Squalane is oil-free. It is incredibly lightweight and gets easily absorbed by the skin without any lingering feeling, and it’s also non-comedogenic. This makes it suitable for all skin types, including those with oily and/or congested skin.
Although it looks and feels like an oil, you may have noticed that our 100% Plant-Derived Squalane is oil-free. It is incredibly lightweight and gets easily absorbed by the skin without any lingering feeling, and it’s also non-comedogenic. This makes it suitable for all skin types, including those with oily and/or congested skin.
What’s the Difference BetweenSqualane and Squalene?
So is it squalane or squalene? And does it really matter? The short answer is yes: there is a difference.
Squalene–with an “e”, is a lipid naturally produced by your skin to help keep it protected and moisturized. However as you age, the production of squalene decreases. Squalene is not unique to humans, it can actually be found in animals and plants alike. One abundant source of squalene is shark liver, but it is mainly derived from plant sources such as olives or through fermentation processes.
While squalene is a great moisturizer and protectant, it doesn't hold up well when added to skincare products. In order for it to have a shelf life, squalene has to be hydrogenated which turns it into squalane–with an “a”.
At The Ordinary, we care about all animals (and fish) including sharks, so we are happy to know that the beauty industry today has moved away from shark-derived squalane. The squalane used in our products is 100% derived from plants, and we remain committed to being vegan and cruelty-free.
Squalene–with an “e”, is a lipid naturally produced by your skin to help keep it protected and moisturized. However as you age, the production of squalene decreases. Squalene is not unique to humans, it can actually be found in animals and plants alike. One abundant source of squalene is shark liver, but it is mainly derived from plant sources such as olives or through fermentation processes.
While squalene is a great moisturizer and protectant, it doesn't hold up well when added to skincare products. In order for it to have a shelf life, squalene has to be hydrogenated which turns it into squalane–with an “a”.
At The Ordinary, we care about all animals (and fish) including sharks, so we are happy to know that the beauty industry today has moved away from shark-derived squalane. The squalane used in our products is 100% derived from plants, and we remain committed to being vegan and cruelty-free.
Benefits of Squalane
Everyone’s skin has a built-in system to keep it moisturized and healthy, this is your moisture barrier. Sebaceous glands produce sebum — a mixture of fats and oils — that help protect the outer layer of the skin.
Sometimes this built-in system just doesn’t cut it, which is when you might start reaching for those hydrating serums and oils.
Since squalane mimics your skin’s natural oils, it is an excellent hydrator that can help support your skin barrier keeping your skin happy and soft.
Squalane is not just for the skin, it’s also been found to have some benefits for hair as well. Squalane can help increase heat protection, add shine, and reduce breakage. So next time you add a little bit too much squalane to your palms, run it through your hair.
Sometimes this built-in system just doesn’t cut it, which is when you might start reaching for those hydrating serums and oils.
Since squalane mimics your skin’s natural oils, it is an excellent hydrator that can help support your skin barrier keeping your skin happy and soft.
Squalane is not just for the skin, it’s also been found to have some benefits for hair as well. Squalane can help increase heat protection, add shine, and reduce breakage. So next time you add a little bit too much squalane to your palms, run it through your hair.
