What is Squalane? Why is it valuable?

What is squalane? (or Skualen as it's pronounced in Turkish) has become one of the most talked about, loved, and effective ingredients in the skincare world in recent years.

The benefits of squalane are so extensive that we can call it a 'miracle molecule'. We're talking about an ingredient that is 100% compatible with the skin, doesn't feel heavy, doesn't clog pores, and is already present in the skin's natural structure. So, what makes this ingredient so special and "valuable"?

With Polente Natural's philosophy, inspired by nature and believing in the power of science, you are invited to unravel the secrets of this 'skin-identical' ingredient.

In this article, we'll delve into why squalane is an indispensable treasure for all skin types, where it comes from, and what it can do for your skin.

Differences Between Squalane and Squalene

In skincare terminology, even a single letter can make a big difference. To fully understand the value of squalane, it's essential to know its "ancestor," the squalene molecule (pronounced with an 'e'). While these two terms are often confused, there are vast differences between them in terms of stability and usage.

1. Squalene (with 'e'): A Naturally Occurring but Unstable Molecule

Squalene is actually a lipid (oil) that our skin naturally produces. It makes up about 10-12% of the sebum our body produces. Its function is to coat the surface of our skin, preventing moisture loss (Transepidermal Water Loss - TEWL) and being part of the acid mantle that protects the skin from external factors. In other words, squalene is our skin's own "original" moisturizer.

This molecule is found not only in human skin but also in nature. It is present in plants such as olive, sugarcane, rice bran, and amaranth. However, there is a major obstacle to the cosmetic use of Squalene: its instability .

Squalene is an unsaturated fat. This means its chemical structure is susceptible to degradation when exposed to air (oxygen).

When oxidized, its structure changes, it becomes heavier, its smell deteriorates, and its shelf life is significantly shortened. Even worse, oxidized squalene can clog pores (become comedogenic) and cause skin sensitivity.

2. Squalane (with α): Hydrogenated, Stable Hero

This is where science comes in. Scientists have found a way to take Squalene's amazing moisturizing property and stabilize it: Hydrogenation .

The hydrogenation process adds hydrogen to the unstable squalene molecule, making it "saturated." As a result of this process, squalene transforms into squalane .

The results of this transformation are revolutionary:

• Stability: Squalane does not oxidize when exposed to air, heat, or light.

• Shelf Life: It has a very long shelf life due to its unchanging structure.

• Texture: Compared to original Squalene, it acquires a much lighter, silkier, and faster-absorbing texture.

• Non-comedogenic: It does not clog pores because there is no risk of oxidation.

In short, Squalane is the perfect version of Squalene, taking all the good qualities (moisturizing, biocompatibility) and eliminating all the bad qualities (instability, heaviness, risk of comedogenicity).

The Issue of Ethics and Sustainable Resources

Historically, one of the richest sources of squalene was shark liver. This was an unethical and unsustainable method that led to the slaughter of millions of sharks.

Fortunately, thanks to conscious consumerism and scientific advancements, the market has completely changed.

As we at Polente Natural also endorse, almost all Squalane used today is derived from 100% plant sources. The two most common and sustainable sources are olive and sugarcane .

This plant-based squalane (also known as "Phyto-Squalane") is an ethically and ecologically responsible choice and has the exact same molecular structure as that derived from sharks.

5 Benefits of Squalane

The benefits of squalane stem from its incredible compatibility with our skin's natural structure. The answer to the question " What is squalane?" can be given as "the most stable and purest form of the skin's own moisturizer."

This biomimetic molecule is instantly accepted by the skin upon application, as if saying 'this is from me', and begins to work. Here are 5 amazing, scientifically proven effects of this precious oil:

1. Lightweight, Excellent Hydration

Squalane is classified as an emollient . Its function is to create a silky, invisible shield on the skin's surface, trapping moisture from within. Unlike many other oils, Squalane is incredibly lightweight and doesn't leave a greasy feeling.

It melts and absorbs the moment you apply it to the skin. This makes it ideal for all skin types. Because it mimics the skin's natural sebum, it is instantly recognized and used to fill gaps in the moisture barrier.

2. Balancing Oily and Acne-Prone Skin

This is one of Squalane's most surprising and valuable benefits. People with oily and acne-prone skin often avoid using oils. However, Squalane is non-comedogenic, meaning it won't clog pores.

Furthermore, because it closely resembles the skin's own sebum, it sends a signal to the skin that "you have enough oil." This signal can help the skin balance its excess sebum production (rebound effect).

In addition, Squalane's mild antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties help soothe existing acne and redness.

3. Repairing and Strengthening the Skin Barrier

When the skin barrier is damaged by pollution, harsh cleansers, excessive exfoliation, or environmental stressors, the skin becomes sensitive, red, dry, and itchy. Squalane is one of the essential components of the skin's protective lipid barrier.

When applied to a damaged barrier, Squalane repairs the "cracks" in this barrier, restores skin integrity, and significantly reduces moisture loss (TEWL).

This makes it a lifesaver, especially for sensitive skin, or skin prone to eczema or rosacea.

4. Powerful Antioxidant Protection and Anti-Aging Effect

Squalane is a powerful antioxidant that protects the skin from damage caused by free radicals. These free radicals, created by sun rays (UV), air pollution, and stress, attack the skin's collagen and elastin fibers, leading to fine lines, wrinkles, and blemishes.

Squalane helps prevent premature skin aging by neutralizing this oxidative stress.

With regular use, it increases skin elasticity, softens the appearance of fine lines, and gives the skin a fuller, more vibrant look.

5. Enhancing the Absorption of Other Ingredients

Squalane's unique molecular structure makes it an excellent "carrier". Because it is so easily absorbed by the skin, it can help transport other active ingredients (such as retinol, vitamin C, and peptides) applied with it to the deeper layers of the skin.

This makes Squalane a great ingredient not only for use as a serum on its own, but also for enhancing your existing skincare routine. It increases the effectiveness of your skincare products.

Conclusion

What is squalane? This journey began with the question, "What is squalane?" and we learned that it is a stable, safe, and ethical version of a miracle substance found in our skin's natural sebum.

The benefits of squalane stem from its unique biocompatible structure.

Its ability to moisturize our skin without weighing it down, provide antioxidant protection, repair our damaged barrier, and most importantly, be friendly to all skin types, including oily and acne-prone skin, are the main features that make it 'valuable'.

At Polente Natural, we believe in the intelligence of nature and the purity of science.

Squalane is the perfect blend of both worlds. Whether you use it alone as a serum or as a booster in your moisturizer, adding this versatile and gentle ingredient to your routine is like inviting your skin to return to its natural state.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the difference between squalane and hyaluronic acid? Can they be used together?

Both are excellent moisturizers, but they work differently. Hyaluronic acid is a humectant ; it plumps the skin by attracting up to 1000 times its own weight in water.

Squalane is an emollient ; it softens the skin's surface and traps the water that hyaluronic acid attracts, preventing it from evaporating. Together, they work perfectly.

Ideal usage: Apply Hyaluronic Acid serum to damp skin first, then apply Squalane oil to lock in moisture.

2. Is squalane really safe for oily skin and acne?

Yes, absolutely. Squalane is non-comedogenic (it doesn't clog pores). Thanks to its lightweight formula, it doesn't leave an oily residue on the skin.

It can even help reduce excess oiliness by balancing the skin's sebum production. Its antibacterial properties also help prevent acne formation.

3. Can squalane be used on hair?

Yes. Squalane is also a great moisturizer for hair. It penetrates the hair shaft, locking in moisture, reducing frizz, providing heat protection, and increasing hair elasticity to prevent breakage.

You can warm a few drops of oil in your palms and apply it to dry or damp hair ends.

4. What is the source of squalane? What should I look for when buying it?

Although historically derived from shark liver, nowadays ethical and reputable brands (including Polente Natural) use 100% plant-based squalane.

The most common sources are olives and sugarcane. When buying a product, check the label to see if it says "%100 Plant-Based," "Plant-Based," or "Derived from Olives/Sugarcane."

5. At what stage of my skincare routine should I use squalane?

Since squalane is an oil, it should be one of the final steps in your skincare routine. The general rule is "from thin to thick." Your routine would be: Cleanser -> Toner -> (If applicable) Water-based serums (e.g., Hyaluronic Acid, Niacinamide) -> Squalane -> (If more concentrated than squalane) Moisturizing Cream.

If your moisturizer is lighter than Squalane, you can use Squalane after your moisturizer or mix a few drops into your moisturizer.