WHAT IS SQUALANE IN SKINCARE & ITS BENEFITS

Squalene vs squalane meaning

You may have seen two different spellings of this skincare ingredient. Squalene, aside from being unstable and prone to oxidisation, is sometimes sourced from shark liver, making it an animal-derived ingredient. The squalane oil version used in Kiehl’s skincare is derived from plants – plus, it has a longer shelf life. To make the stable, skin-friendly version of squalane, the oil must be hydrogenated, which transforms it from an unsaturated to saturated oil.

Is squalane good for skin?

Because of its intense nourishment, many of us use squalane for dehydrated skin in winter months or when skin is feeling a little dry. However, this ingredient has a few other supportive uses – and can also benefit those with oily, mild acne-prone, sensitive and mature skin types. See what implementing squalane oil can mean for your skin below.

1. Deeply moisturises

Squalane oil is an emollient – an ingredient which creates a protective and moisturising barrier on skin. Emollients improve the feeling of skin by softening the surface layer. By adding to our natural oils, squalane ensures that skin stays hydrated for longer. Alongside moisture implementation, the oil also helps to prevent loss of hydration – by strengthening the all-important skin moisture barrier. Humectants like hyaluronic acid typically have a watery texture and help to retain moisture. When using squalane vs hyaluronic acid, we recommend implementing squalane oil-infused moisturisers like Ultra Facial Moisturizer afterwards. This helps seal in moisture.

2. Anti-ageing

As our natural production of collagen, hyaluronic acid and squalane depletes, skin becomes more prone to dryness. A lack of moisture in skin exacerbates and magnifies the appearance of wrinkles. Fortunately, supplementing hydrating properties like squalane oil, moisture can be absorbed deeply into skin and bring about the following results in anti-ageing skincare routines:

3. Non-comedogenic

Moisturising typically oily skin or mild acne-prone skin can be tricky to get right – but the skincare step is just as important for these skin types. Excessive oil flow and breakouts are due in part to imbalanced moisture. By implementing healthy moisturising properties, skin’s natural oil production can be regulated. Squalane-infused moisturisers are an ideal option, as the oil is non-comedogenic. This means that it won’t clog or block pores.

Kiehl’s squalane skincare

Now that we’ve established what squalane in skincare is, let’s walk through how to implement. Suitable for use year-round, squalane oil provides optimal moisture content without overwhelming or blocking skin. See Kiehl’s supportive squalane products below.

Ultra Facial Cleanser

Our foaming squalane oil-infused cleanser clears debris, impurities and sweat which accumulates throughout the day and as we sleep – without reducing natural oils found in the skin. Suitable for all skin types, this gentle cleanser combines squalane benefits with avocado oil and apricot kernels to further nourish and refresh skin.

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Ultra Facial Toner

Toners help to hydrate and prep skin for proceeding steps. After cleansing, this toner with squalane helps to moisturise and comfort skin whilst refining skin texture. pH balanced and supportive of other skincare ingredients, our toner won’t dry out skin. Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive.

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Ultra Facial Cream with Squalane

Our #1 moisturiser, this squalane-infused day cream helps to maintain the skin’s moisture barrier. The result? Bright and softened skin that benefits from an ultra-lightweight texture. Our moisturiser for all also includes glacial glycoprotein, extracted from the micro-organisms in sea glaciers that thrive in extreme climates. Used daily, every skin types can experience visibly healthier looking skin that’s protected from external stress and dehydration.

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Ultra Facial Overnight Rehydrating Mask with 10.5% Squalane

Our skin cells work to recover from daily stress while we sleep. To support this part of the skin cell cycle, overnight masks can be implemented. Our 10.5% squalane mask deeply hydrates alongside glacial proteins and desert plant extract to help you wake up with refreshed, healthy looking skin.

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Midnight Recovery Concentrate Facial Oil

Facial oils help to replenish hydrating properties to skin, and seal in moisture from previous steps like moisturiser. In our evening facial oil, squalane oil is combined with lavender essential oil and primrose oil to promote deep hydration and youthful looking skin. Used as part of anti-ageing routines or to refresh tired skin, the oil also contains a relaxing scent to help as you head to sleep.

Discover Midnight Recovery Concentrate Facial Oil.

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