Squalane is a type of oil that is derived from squalene, which is found naturally in our skin. It’s an incredibly versatile and effective ingredient that can be used for everything from hydrating the skin to reducing the appearance of wrinkles.
In this post, we’ll take a closer look at what squalane is, where it comes from, and the benefits of squalane for the skin.
What Is Squalane & Where Does It Come From?
Squalane is an all-natural oil that can be found in tomatoes, olives, and many other plants, but it’s also a natural byproduct of human sebum. Our bodies produce squalane when we are young, but we produce less of it as we age.
That’s why adding squalane to skincare products is a great way to help keep our skin looking young and healthy. Squalane oil has also been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, making it a valuable addition to any DIY skincare routine.
The product we use in skincare is most often made from olive oil and is prized for its moisturizing properties and its ability to keep skin healthy and supple.
Squalane can be used as a stand-alone moisturizer or it can be added to other products to boost their efficacy.
Squalane can do wonders for the skin, including:
- Preventing moisture loss and keeping skin hydrated
- Promoting collagen production, which helps keep skin looking young and healthy
- Reducing the appearance of wrinkles and other signs of aging
- Fighting off free radicals that can cause damage to the skin
- Preventing skin irritation and inflammation
- Reducing the symptoms of eczema and other skin conditions
- Helping to clear up acne breakouts
How to Use Squalane
There are a few different ways to use squalane oil for maximum results. One way is to add it to your favorite DIY lotion or learn how to make a face cream and apply it topically. Another way is to combine it with a carrier oil like jojoba or coconut oil and use it as a natural facial serum.
You can add squalane to your favorite DIY skincare products or you can use it as a standalone moisturizer. If you are using it as a standalone moisturizer, I recommend applying it to damp skin immediately after showering or bathing. This will help to lock in the moisture and get the most benefit from the oil.
If you are adding squalane to other products, I recommend starting with a small amount and increasing the quantity if needed. Not all products need the same amount of squalane, so it’s important to test it out and see what works best for you.
You can also add a few drops of squalane oil to your bathtub for a relaxing and moisturizing experience.
Many people enjoy using squalane oil as a natural lip balm or lip gloss. Experiment until you find the method of use that works best for you!
Still not convinced?
Check out our list of the top five ways to use squalane oil for maximum results:
- Use it as a makeup primer. Squalane oil is the perfect way to prep your skin for makeup. Just apply a few drops to clean, dry skin before applying your DIY foundation or BB cream.
- Add it to your favorite moisturizer or serum. This will help to increase hydration and give your skincare products an extra boost.
- Use it as a standalone product. If you’re looking for extra hydration, apply a few drops of squalane oil to your face and neck after cleansing.
- Squalane oil can also be used as an overnight treatment. Just apply it before you go to bed.
DIY Squalane Oil Serum
Here’s how to make your own imitation squalane oil using ingredients you probably have in your kitchen. For more info, check out my post on how to make a simple Anti-Aging Serum.
Rosehip & Camellia Hydration Serum Recipe
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Ingredients
- 18 grams Olive Squalane
- 14 grams Rosehip Oil
- 10 grams Camellia Seed Oil
- 5.5 grams Isoamyl laurate (UK – Eco silk MB )
- 1 grams Coenzyme Q10 Q-MAX (UK – Coenzyme Q10 Plus E)
- 1 grams Vitamin E Oil
- 0.25 grams Neroli Essential Oil
- 0.25 grams Petitgrain Essential Oil
- 2oz Serum Bottles
Video
Instructions
- Weigh your carrier oils and eco silk into a small pourable beaker and give them a stir.18 grams Olive Squalane, 14 grams Rosehip Oil, 10 grams Camellia Seed Oil, 5.5 grams Isoamyl laurate
- Add the remaining ingredients then stir again so that all the oils are thoroughly combined.1 grams Coenzyme Q10 Q-MAX, 1 grams Vitamin E Oil, 0.25 grams Neroli Essential Oil, 0.25 grams Petitgrain Essential Oil
- Transfer into a suitable bottle ready for use. Give the oils 24 hours to fully synergize before using.2oz Serum Bottles
Notes
- Olive Squalane – I would go for a light none greasy oil such as fractionated carrier oil.
- Rosehip OiL – Argon, jojoba, and peach kernel would be suitable substitutes
- Camellia Seed Oil – Argon and evening primrose are both good choices
- Isoamyl laurate – Isoamyl cocoate is very similar, otherwise, you could substitute it with more rosehip oil.
- Coenzyme Q10 Q-MAX – Substitute with more vitamin E, calendula CO2 extract, or Bisabolol.
- Neroli and Petitgrain essential oil – Could be substituted with lavender or sweet orange.
Squalane & Heat Phase Cosmetics
Some of our cosmetic ingredients are heat sensitive. This means that when exposed to high temperatures, the delicate molecules that possess thereputic benefits for our skin rapidly degrade.
Many different types of ingredients can be heat sensitive. Many carrier oils and all essential oils, for instance, are heat sensitive. As is squalane, unfortunately.
However, there are many ways to incorporate squalane into products that have a heat phase. If you include it as a cool down ingredient, you can mitigate this issue altogether.
If you absolutely must use it in the heated phase, be sure not to expose squalane to high temperatures for too long.
For instance, the ‘Heat and Hold’ emulsion method should be avoided, and you should mix the water and oil parts as soon as your solid fats have melted.
Squalane vs. Squalene
Squalane sounds like an amazing ingredient, right? But it’s important not to confuse it with another, similar ingredient; squalene.
Squalane, the ingredient we use in our lovely skincare products, contains hydrogen. Because of this, it does not react with oxygen, and so, therefore, does not oxidize like many of our other natural ingredients.
However, squalene is hydrogen-free, and oxidizes very quickly. Save yourself the time and effort of trying to add anti-oxidants to your squalene and just pick up squalane instead.
Where You Can Buy It
There are many places where you can buy olive squalane. You can find it online at Amazon, or in stores that sell natural and organic products. It’s also available at some health food stores. If you’re looking for a high-quality product, be sure to purchase squalane from a reputable source.
When you’re buying squalane, be sure to choose an oil that is pure and free of fillers. This will ensure that you’re getting the most benefits from the oil.
The top 5 best squalane oils on the market today:
Squalane is a versatile and effective skincare ingredient that can be used in many different ways. It’s an excellent moisturizer, and a great addition to any skincare routine, so give it a try and see the difference it makes! There are a lot of great squalane oils on the market today, but here are my top five available on Amazon:
- The Ordinary 100% Plant-derived Squalane. Looking for a plant-derived Squalane? Look no further than The Ordinary’s 100% Plant-derived Squalane. This lightweight, hydrating oil is perfect for all skin types and can be used as a primer, moisturizer, or serum. It’s also vegan and cruelty-free!
- Squalane Oil by Ellipsis Labs. 100% natural and perfect for those with sensitive skin. With 1oz / 30ml of oil, this bottle will last for months.
- Life-Flo Pure Olive Squalane Oil. Hypoallergenic, gluten free and safe for use by people with nut allergies.
- Italian Squalane Oil by Botanical Beauty. All natural, 100% pure and non-greasy oil extracted from olives.
- Biossance 100% Squalane Oil. Non-greasy, ultra-pure, and natural oil that helps to tone and moisturize the skin.
Side Effects & How To Deal With Them
Squalane oil is considered to be safe for most people when used as directed. However, some people may experience side effects, such as skin irritation, redness, or dryness. If you experience any of these side effects, discontinue use and consult your healthcare provider.
To avoid these side effects, start with a lower concentration of squalane oil and slowly increase the amount you use until your skin becomes accustomed to it. Additionally, make sure to apply the oil to clean, dry skin and avoid using it on broken or irritated skin.
Final Thoughts
Olives are a great source of this beneficial oil. You can buy it here on Amazon, and it’s an affordable way to add this natural moisturizer to your beauty routine.
Thanks for following along on our journey to discover the benefits of squalane as a skincare ingredient. We hope you’ll give it a try!
FAQ About Squalane
What is squalane made from?
Squalane is a moisturizing ingredient that comes from people, animals and some plants. It’s often found in the skin care products like anti-aging cream or lip gloss to help keep your face soft!
What does squalane do for your skin?
Squalane is a lightweight moisturizer that leaves your skin hydrated, supple and luminous. It provides just the right amount of moisture to keep it feeling fresh all day long without making you feel like an oil slick!
Is squalene harmful to humans?
Squalene is an ingredient used in many skin care products and cosmetics, its not only safe but has been shown to provide benefits such as anti aging properties.
