Explore the science behind squalane, its benefits for all skin types, and the clinical evidence supporting its use in skincare. Learn how to incorporate this powerhouse ingredient into your daily...
In the realm of skincare, many ingredients promise to transform your skin, but few deliver as effectively as squalane. While this term might be unfamiliar to most people, squalane is a powerhouse of hydration and anti-ageing properties, gaining recognition in the beauty industry for its remarkable benefits for all skin types. In this short guide, we will explore what squalane is, how it works, and the clinical evidence supporting its use.
Squalane is a saturated, stable hydrocarbon derived from squalene, a natural component of human sebum. Squalene itself is an unsaturated oil, but when it is hydrogenated, it becomes squalane, which is more stable and resistant to oxidation. While squalane was traditionally sourced from shark liver oil, ethical and sustainable practices have shifted production to plant-based sources such as olives, rice bran, and sugarcane.
Squalane is lightweight, non-greasy, and quickly absorbed by the skin, making it an ideal emollient and moisturiser. It enhances skin hydration, protects against environmental damage, and provides antioxidant benefits, making it suitable for all skin types.
As women approach menopause, declining oestrogen levels can lead to reduced natural oil production, causing dryness and dehydration. Squalane acts as a powerful moisturiser, mimicking the skin’s natural oils. It hydrates without greasiness, locking in moisture to keep skin soft and comfortable.
As women approach menopause, declining oestrogen levels can lead to reduced natural oil production, causing dryness and dehydration. Squalane acts as a powerful moisturiser, mimicking the skin’s natural oils. It hydrates without greasiness, locking in moisture to keep skin soft and comfortable.
Menopause can weaken the skin’s barrier, leading to increased water loss and vulnerability to environmental stressors. Squalane strengthens the skin barrier, helping to protect against external damage and prevent moisture loss, crucial for maintaining healthy, resilient skin.
With menopause, collagen production decreases, leading to fine lines and wrinkles. Squalane’s emollient properties hydrate and smooth the skin, reducing the appearance of fine lines. Its ability to penetrate deeply allows it to deliver moisture and nutrients where they’re needed most, promoting a youthful appearance.
Menopausal skin can become more sensitive and prone to inflammation, leading to redness and irritation. Squalane is known for its calming properties, soothing irritated skin and reducing inflammation. Its gentle nature makes it suitable for even the most sensitive skin types.
During menopause, skin is more susceptible to oxidative stress from UV exposure and pollution. Squalane’s antioxidant properties help neutralise free radicals, protecting the skin from premature ageing—a crucial benefit during menopause when the skin’s natural defences are often weakened.
Squalane supports the skin’s natural regeneration process, which can slow down post-menopause. Regular use helps maintain a healthy skin tone and texture, promoting a radiant, glowing complexion.
Squalane supports the skin’s natural regeneration process, which can slow down post-menopause. Regular use helps maintain a healthy skin tone and texture, promoting a radiant, glowing complexion.
Numerous studies have validated the effectiveness of squalane in skincare.
Enhanced Hydration and Barrier Function: A study published in the *Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology* found that squalane significantly improves skin hydration and strengthens the skin barrier, reducing transepidermal water loss (Rastogi & Gholap, 2024).
Anti-Aging Benefits: Research in the *International Journal of Cosmetic Science* revealed that squalane reduces the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, improving skin elasticity (Michalak, 2022).
Non-Comedogenic Properties: An *American Academy of Dermatology* study confirmed that squalane does not cause acne, making it safe for all skin types (Condro et al., 2023).
Antioxidant Protection: The *Journal of Lipid Research* demonstrated that squalane combats free radicals and reduces oxidative stress, which contributes to skin ageing (Zhang et al., 2023).
Anti-Inflammatory Effects: A study in *Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine* highlighted squalane’s ability to reduce inflammation and soothe conditions like eczema and rosacea (Quesada et al., 2018).
Squalane is versatile and can be seamlessly integrated into your daily skincare regimen in a variety of ways:
As a Moisturiser: Apply a few drops of squalane oil directly to your skin after cleansing, or mix it with your favourite lotion or cream.
As a Makeup Primer: Squalane creates a smooth base for makeup, ensuring longer wear and a flawless finish.
For Hair Care: Squalane can be used on hair to add gloss, tame frizz, and protect against heat damage.
In Combination with Other Products: Squalane enhances the effectiveness of Let's Be Frank skincare products, improving their absorption and performance.
Opt for plant-derived squalane products with high purity to ensure ethical sourcing and maximum benefits.
Squalane is a skincare ingredient that lives up to the hype. Its ability to hydrate, repair, soothe, protect, and rejuvenate the skin, combined with its suitability for all skin types, makes it a must-have in any skincare routine. With extensive clinical evidence supporting its benefits, squalane is a reliable choice for those seeking healthier, more radiant skin, especially perimenopausal, menopausal, and postmenopausal women, which is why we chose to incorporate it into our formulations for enhanced skincare results.
Condrò, G., Sciortino, R., & Perugini, P. (2023). Squalene peroxidation and biophysical parameters in acne-prone skin: A pilot “In vivo” study. *Pharmaceuticals, 16*(12), 170–174. https://doi.org/10.3390/ph16121704
Michalak, M. (2022). Plant-derived antioxidants: Significance in skin health and the ageing process. *International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 23*(2). https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms23020585
Rastogi, R., & Gholap, A. (2023). Daily use of a Bakuchiol and squalane-containing face serum impacts skin aesthetics. *Cosmoderma, 3*. https://doi.org/10.25259/csdm_224_2023
Sánchez-Quesada, C., López-Biedma, A., Toledo, E., & Gaforio, J. J. (2018). Squalene stimulates a key innate immune cell to foster wound healing and tissue repair. *Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2*, 1–9. https://doi.org/10.1155/2018/9473094
Zhang, P., Liu, N., Xue, M., Zhang, M., Xiao, Z., Xu, C., Fan, Y., Liu, W., Qiu, J., Zhang, Q., & Zhou, Y. (2023). Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of squalene in copper sulphate-induced inflammation in zebrafish (Danio rerio). *International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 24*(10), 851–858. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms24108518
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