What is squalane?

For anyone with dehydrated, acne-prone, red skin, here's an ingredient you need. It's been around for years, but lately, squalane is causing a buzz in beauty. Editor Trudi Brewer shares an ingredient you need to include in your summer skincare routine.

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What is squalene vs squalane?

Squalane is the manufactured version of squalene (with an e), that once exposed to oxygen, becomes rancid, with a short shelf life. At the same time, squalane (with an a) is the hydrogenated molecule of squalene or the stable form used in skincare products.

Why is it good for the skin?

A brilliant moisturiser because it mimics your skin's natural oils. But the benefits of squalene don't end there. It also fights free-radical damage because it's a potent antioxidant. It nourishes and heals red, irritated skin and 

Is squalane vegan?

Squalane is from shark liver, and for a long time, it was one of the most common sources used in cosmetics. However, beauty companies have shifted away from using shark-derived squalane instead of plant-derived squalane due to obvious ethical concerns. Found in olives and rice bran, amaranth seed, wheat germ, and even sugar cane.

 Who should use squalane?

Its benefits are well-documented when it comes to hydrating the skin, and it's ideal for anyone with dry, dehydrated, acne-prone, mature and even sensitive skin. It works to naturally seal in moisture, keeping the skin barrier healthy and strong, which keeps hydration in and nasties out. Over time, using squalane each day can reduce fine lines, eliminate scars, reverse brown spots caused by UV damage, lighten freckles and help fight those free radicals from environmental assaults like pollution and the sun. From cleansers to moisturisers, sunscreen and eye creams, there are plenty of ways to incorporate squalane into your daily routine. Finally, due to its gentle and potent natural moisturising factors, it also plays nicely alongside other active ingredients in your skincare routine, such as retinol, salicylic acid and vitamin C, without the risk of any irritation. That's why it's called a skincare hero. Discover some of our favourite squalane-based products below.

The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser, $18.

Since switching to this cleanser, I have noticed a marked improvement in my skin. As the first step in my double-cleansing routine, it helps remove makeup swiftly, without leaving the skin feeling tight and dry.

bareMinerals Complexion Rescue Tinted Hydrating Gel Cream, $53.

Few tinted moisturisers are hydrating or offer enough coverage, especially with adequate sun protection. But, thanks to the overdose of olive-derived squalene, and a non-chemical broad-spectrum sunscreen in this natural-looking, skin glow-giver, we have found a winner. Also, there are 20 shades.

Tatcha Luminous Deep Hydration Firming Eye Serum, $137.

Loaded with hydrating squalane, Okinawa red algae and decongesting caffeine, this eye gel-like serum works to firm tired eyes while the cooling ceramic nib glides over the skin to cool and de-puff. Finally, a little 23-carat gold helps brighten dark circles by adding a touch of gold shimmer.

Kate Somerville Kx Active Concentrates Squalane + Hyaluronic Serum, $157.

A potent skin hydrating serum made with the moisture magnet hyaluronic acid and squalane. Antioxidants linoleic acid and pro-vitamin B5 (panthenol) together give dry skin a new lease on life while protecting the skin's barrier, keeping hydration in and nasties out. 

Go-To Face Hero Face Oil, $49.

An ultra-nourishing skin healer that absorbs quickly thanks to the blend of nut oils including almond, macadamia, and brazil nuts. Evening primrose, arnica, rosehip, calendula, and kiwi fruit seed oils, that together are all rich in squalane, while vitamin E is a potent antioxidant. But, unlike most face oils that smell like cooking oil, the scent of orange blossom, rose gardenia extracts seals the deal for us.

THE SOLUTION HYALURONIC ACID HYDRATING BODY LOTION, $25.

Moisturising your skin does not stop at your neck. This hard-working skin hydrator with active ingredients, including that moisture magnet hyaluronic acid, squalane, anti-ageing and nourishing glycerine and sea algae. It absorbs quickly, so you can dress in seconds of applying it.