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(What will be mentioned below is for advice and is not a substitute for consulting a doctor)
Squalane is a natural ingredient found in skin lipids. It's now available in a plant-based formula, which is gaining popularity in beauty care. What are its properties and benefits for the skin, especially with the onset of fall?
Deep Hydration and Skin Protection
Squalene is one of the best moisturizing ingredients, as it works to retain moisture within the skin, making it an ideal choice for combating the dryness that accompanies the change of seasons. It is a hydrogenated, stabilized version of natural squalane, giving it the ability to deeply moisturize the skin without clogging pores. It is an ideal alternative to petrochemical products like ointments. It also helps improve skin elasticity, strengthen its protective barrier, and protect it from oxidation and inflammation.
Squalene can be used alone or in combination with other ingredients. It's suitable for all skin types, but its effectiveness is most pronounced on normal to dry or dull skin that needs to restore its radiance and retain water within the cells.
Olive-tree-fruit. Image source: wikimedia.org
Olive oil is its primary source.
Vegetable squalene is mostly extracted from olive oil and is a clear, odorless hydrocarbon that easily blends with the skin's hydrolipidic film. Naturally, skin sebum is composed of approximately 15% squalene, which forms a barrier that protects against dryness and moisture loss.
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Benefits in Cosmetics
Vegetable squalene is included in many moisturizing creams due to its role in preventing transepidermal water loss and improving tissue elasticity, as well as its contribution to enhancing the absorption of other active ingredients. It is also used in some shampoos and hair masks to moisturize and increase volume without leaving a greasy feel.
A Complementary Ingredient
Dermatologists confirm that squalane is effective even at low concentrations, ranging from 3 to 10%. When used at higher concentrations, it provides intense hydration and helps combat signs of aging. It is often combined with hyaluronic acid, as they complement each other in enhancing hydration: the former attracts water to the skin, while the latter retains it within the cells.
People with oily or acne-prone skin are advised to use hyaluronic acid alone, while squalane is recommended for dry or very dry skin.
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