Squalane: Benefits for Skin and Use in Cosmetics
Squalane (C30H62) has become a standout ingredient in the cosmetic industry, valued for its ability to mimic the skin’s natural sebum and enhance hydration, protection, and skin repair. Originally derived from squalene, a compound found in human sebum, squalane is a stable form widely used in skincare for its resilience and superb emollient properties. Biotulin, known for its expertise in high-performance anti-aging products, has incorporated squalane into its offerings, utilizing this potent ingredient to bring deep hydration and skin-repair benefits to users globally.
What Is Squalane?
Squalane is a hydrogenated, stable form of squalene, transforming this naturally occurring compound into a highly durable and adaptable ingredient. Squalene, an unsaturated lipid, exists naturally in human skin, where it helps maintain hydration and elasticity. This compound can also be found in small amounts in plant oils like olive, soybean, and sunflower oils. However, squalene’s instability—prone to oxidation and degradation when exposed to air—limits its direct use in cosmetics. By hydrogenating squalene, scientists produce squalane, a stable derivative that retains all the benefits of squalene without the downsides, making it an ideal addition to skincare.
Differentiating Squalane and Squalene
Due to their similar names, squalane and squalene are often confused. While both share the same roots, they differ in their chemical structures and uses. Squalene (C30H50) is a natural lipid that enhances skin hydration and elasticity. However, its unsaturated nature makes it vulnerable to oxidation, which can cause it to lose its effectiveness and even become irritating if exposed to air for extended periods. Squalane, on the other hand, is produced through hydrogenation, transforming it into a saturated hydrocarbon (C30H62) that is both highly stable and resistant to oxidation. This stability allows squalane to maintain its efficacy in skincare products over time, providing reliable moisturizing and protective effects for all skin types.
Why Squalane’s Stability Sets It Apart in Skincare
The science behind squalane’s stability is one of its major advantages over other emollients. Its chemical structure makes it far less prone to oxidation compared to unsaturated oils like squalene or other plant-derived oils. In particular, the lack of double bonds in squalane’s structure prevents it from reacting with oxygen, which would otherwise degrade its quality and reduce its efficacy. This stability is essential in skincare because it ensures that squalane remains effective throughout the product’s shelf life, preserving its moisturizing and protective qualities. As a result, squalane-based products can offer consistent results, helping consumers maintain smoother, more hydrated skin over time.
This stability also makes squalane an ideal ingredient for pairing with antioxidants, which are often included in skincare to combat environmental damage. When combined, antioxidants and squalane create a synergistic effect where the antioxidants neutralize free radicals, and squalane provides an additional layer of protection to reinforce the skin barrier, preventing further moisture loss and reducing susceptibility to environmental stressors.
The Benefits of Squalane for Skin Health
Squalane’s benefits stem from its unique similarity to the skin’s natural lipids. This close match allows squalane to blend seamlessly with the skin, creating a barrier that locks in moisture and prevents water loss. Unlike heavier oils, squalane has a lightweight, non-greasy texture that is easily absorbed, leaving the skin feeling smooth and hydrated without any residue. Here are some of the standout benefits of squalane for skin health:
Deep Moisturization: Squalane hydrates the skin by preventing transepidermal water loss, a crucial factor in maintaining a plump, healthy complexion.
Non-Comedogenic: Squalane’s lightweight formula does not clog pores, making it an excellent choice for oily or acne-prone skin.
Enhanced Elasticity: By reinforcing the skin’s lipid barrier, squalane helps improve skin elasticity and resilience, protecting it from daily environmental stressors.
Suitable for Sensitive Skin: As a natural emollient, squalane is gentle and soothing, making it ideal for those with sensitive skin or conditions like eczema.
Anti-Aging Benefits: The moisturizing and protective properties of squalane can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, providing a smoother and more youthful complexion.
Types of Squalane: A Focus on Natural and Synthetic Origins
With growing demand for sustainable beauty, the industry has introduced various types of squalane, derived from different sources. Squalane’s versatility and compatibility with all skin types make it popular across many beauty formulations. Here are the main types of squalane:
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Plant-Based Squalane
Plant-based squalane, extracted from renewable sources such as olive oil, aligns with the modern consumer’s preference for natural and eco-friendly skincare. Biotulin primarily utilizes olive-derived squalane, known for its exceptional skin compatibility and production standards that are solvent-free and GMO-free. The olive plant, a rich source of squalene, is refined to produce squalane suitable for skincare without sacrificing quality or purity. Other sources of plant-based squalane include soybeans and sunflowers, offering additional variety for consumers who prioritize plant-based ingredients in their skincare routines. To maintain high standards, Biotulin conducts extensive testing to verify the purity and natural origin of its squalane batches.
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Marine Squalane
Historically, squalene was derived from shark liver oil, especially in Japan, where it was often used as a dietary supplement. However, with rising awareness of sustainability and animal welfare, most industries have shifted to plant-based sources, particularly in cosmetics, where demand for clean beauty is growing. Marine squalane is still found in some pharmaceutical applications, such as vaccine formulations, but in cosmetics, plant-based squalane has largely replaced it. This shift reflects a global commitment to sustainable and ethical production practices.
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Synthetic Squalane
Synthetic Squalane can be created using either petrochemical methods or biotechnology. The petrochemical process involves synthesizing squalane from terpene compounds. However, the biotechnological method is gaining traction due to its eco-friendly approach, wherein sugar molecules are fermented by genetically modified microorganisms to produce a precursor molecule called farnesene, which is then synthesized into Squalane. While synthetic Squalane is increasingly popular in green chemistry, plant-derived squalane remains a preferred choice among consumers who prioritize natural ingredients.
Why Choose Squalane in Cosmetics?
Squalane offers unparalleled compatibility with the skin, functioning similarly to the skin’s natural lipids. This close match allows Squalane to integrate seamlessly into the skin, enhancing hydration and elasticity without causing irritation or adverse reactions. It’s especially effective in serums, creams, and oils that aim to boost moisture levels and maintain skin hydration over time. Here’s why Squalane is a standout choice in cosmetics:
Long-Lasting Moisture: Squalane’s ability to prevent water loss keeps skin hydrated throughout the day, especially when used in combination with humectants like Hyaluronic Acid.
Skin Barrier Support: By strengthening the skin’s lipid barrier, Squalane helps protect against external pollutants, allergens, and irritants.
Gentle and Lightweight: Squalane’s non-greasy and light texture makes it ideal for daytime use, allowing it to sit comfortably under makeup or sunscreen.
Ideal for All Skin Types: From dry to oily to sensitive skin, Squalane adapts to various skin needs, making it a versatile ingredient in both high-performance and gentle skincare products.
How Squalane Interacts with Other Skincare Ingredients
Squalane’s stability and compatibility with various ingredients make it a favorite for pairing with active compounds in skincare formulations. Here are some common pairings that maximize the benefits of Squalane in skincare:
Antioxidants: Squalane works well with antioxidants, such as Vitamin C, Vitamin E, and ferulic acid, helping to reduce oxidative stress and free radical damage. Antioxidants protect the skin from pollution and UV damage, while Squalane locks in moisture, creating a hydrated and fortified barrier.
Retinol: Squalane is often included in formulations with retinol, as it helps counteract the drying effects of retinoids, ensuring the skin remains moisturized and reducing the potential for irritation.
Hyaluronic Acid: Known for its humectant properties, hyaluronic acid draws moisture into the skin. When paired with squalane, hyaluronic acid provides a deep hydration boost, while squalane seals it in, making this combination highly effective for dry or dehydrated skin.
Botanical Extracts: Squalane pairs well with botanical extracts like green tea, chamomile, and aloe vera. The soothing properties of these extracts combined with squalane’s protective qualities make it suitable for calming and hydrating sensitive or irritated skin.
Squalane Oil: A Key Ingredient in Skin Repair
As a highly stable molecule, squalane does not oxidize or become rancid, allowing it to offer long-term moisturization and protection in skincare products. This stability makes squalane particularly suitable for sensitive skin and products aimed at delivering lasting hydration. Biotulin leverages squalane in its skincare line to reinforce the skin’s moisture barrier, providing individuals with dry or compromised skin a soothing and protective effect. Here’s why squalane oil is ideal for skin repair:
Barrier Reinforcement: Squalane strengthens the skin’s outer layer, preventing moisture loss and fortifying the skin against environmental damage.
Reduced Redness and Irritation: Squalane’s soothing properties can help reduce skin inflammation, making it ideal for post-treatment skincare or for those with sensitive skin conditions.
Compatibility with Active Ingredients: Due to its stability, squalane can be combined with other active ingredients like antioxidants, retinol, or Vitamin C to enhance its skin-repairing effects without compromising efficacy.
Final Thoughts on Squalane in Skincare
Squalane’s popularity continues to rise due to its unparalleled ability to hydrate, protect, and mimic the skin’s natural functions. From its origins in squalene to the sophisticated hydrogenation process that stabilizes it, Squalane has become a fundamental component in high-performance skincare. Cosmetic brands like Biotulin embrace Squalane in their products to deliver consumers immediate, visible hydration and a lightweight, non-greasy feel suitable for all skin types. As consumers continue to demand effective yet gentle skincare solutions, squalane’s prominence is set to grow, supported by brands committed to innovation and sustainability.
The Role of Biotulin in Squalane Innovation
Biotulin has embraced Squalane for its effectiveness in anti-aging and hydration. By using high-quality, plant-derived Squalane, Biotulin integrates this ingredient into its skincare line, which combines Squalane with other active compounds for results that speak to modern skincare needs. Known for its focus on high-efficacy natural ingredients, Biotulin ensures that its squalane-based products contribute to smooth, supple skin with a lightweight, non-greasy feel. The commitment to quality underscores Biotulin's approach to anti-aging skincare, providing consumers with options that reflect the latest advancements in skin hydration and repair.
Biotulin Products with Squalane
The Soft Cream by Biotulin delivers intense hydration and wrinkle reduction with a unique, clinically proven formula. In just 60 minutes, it visibly plumps the skin, smoothing fine lines and leaving a soft, velvety finish. Applied morning and night, this cream keeps skin firm and hydrated for 24 hours. Enriched with Spilanthol—a natural extract from Acmella Oleracea—Soft Cream gently relaxes facial muscles, reducing wrinkles without compromising skin's natural expressiveness and elasticity. Hyaluronic Acid and Grape Seed Extracts provide deep, antioxidant-rich hydration, and studies show a 25% wrinkle reduction within hours, with further improvement over time. This vegan, sulfate-free, and non-greasy formula is designed for all skin types, bringing a natural glow and younger-looking skin.
