Here’s what you need to know about squalane, the essential skincare emollient.
– KEYS SOULCARE
Squalane is all the buzz in the skincare world, but remains a mystery to many. It’s complicated, but it’s time to break it down and get straight to the facts. Once you understand the hype around squalane, you’ll be ready to add it to your ritual. (And, yes, we have the exact offerings to get the job done.)
What Is Squalane?
Scientifically speaking, squalane is a derivative of squalene. Squalene is a lipid — a hydrocarbon compound found in the living cells of plants and animals. These fatty, waxy, or oily compounds are part of the building blocks of the skin’s natural barrier. While squalene does occur in the body, it also enters the body through certain foods such as olives, sharks, liver oil, wheat germ, and rice bran. (Due to increased ethical practices, squalene is mostly sourced from plants.)
Squalene becomes squalane through hydrogenation, a process that turns the liquid lipid into stable, solid fat. Hydrogenation protects against oxidation, which causes squalene to go rancid when exposed to oxygen. Squalane is the stabilized version of squalene, which can then be used in your favorite skincare product offerings, including Protect Your Light SPF 30 .
What are the benefits of squalane for the skin?
Squalane and skincare work in perfect harmony. To give you a quick overview, here are three major ways this key ingredient benefits your skin:
1. Squalane is non-comedogenic.
Pores breathe easy with squalane. This allows for all skin types to benefit from squalane without the risk of clogging up and causing breakouts. In addition to this non-comedogenic feature, squalane also mimics the skin’s naturally occurring sebum or oil, slowing the production of excess oils. It is a must for oily skin users who are looking to control and balance their complexion.
2. Squalane strengthens the skin’s natural barrier.
Squalane is antioxidant-rich. These skin-loving substances work wonders to protect against free radicals, environmental exposure, and UV damage. A more substantial barrier means clearer, more youthful skin. Antioxidants also improve the skin’s overall texture and complexion by evening tone, smoothing lines, and locking in moisture.
3. Squalane is hydrating.
Another thing to love? This power ingredient is very gentle and lightweight. The breathable emollient oil sinks into the skin, penetrating deep. Squalane won’t weigh you down and is a non-greasy moisturizing treatment for supple and luminous skin. Its gentle composition reduces irritation and redness, so you can hydrate and soothe skin with every use.
Where can you find squalane in Keys Soulcare?
Protect and glow with our Daily Hydration Skincare Duo. Start with the moisture-rich protection of Protect Your Light SPF 30, which will shield you from UVA and UVB rays without the white cast. Next, prime to shine with the Let Me Glow Illuminating Serum with a touch of golden hues and skin-brightening niacinamide. Squalane is on our it list. Discover what else our offerings have to offer in our Ingredients Glossary.
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