Squalane is a natural powerhouse that helps the skin stay hydrated and fights the effects of aging. So how well do you know this versatile ingredient? 

Let’s start at the roots of squalane, or as it is known in its natural form, squalene with an “e”.  Our bodies contain a system to help keep the skin moisturized, but good hydration isn’t always easy to maintain, especially as we age.  In our skin, we have squalene, which is a lipid that is produced by the sebaceous glands.  It is estimated to make up about 10 to 12 percent of the skin's oil and is responsible for keeping it gloriously moisturized.  Squalene is produced at optimal amounts when we’re in our teen years, but production slows down during the next two decades of our lives, often leaving skin dry and rough.  

Considering the fact that squalene occurs naturally in our bodies, it makes sense to utilize it in skincare products to hydrate and help fight the visible signs of aging.  However, squalene, which is also found in shark livers or in plants like rice bran, olives and sugarcane, can go rancid and spoil fast when it is exposed to oxygen, making it a difficult ingredient to work with. Fortunately, when squalene is hydrogenated or converted from an unsaturated oil into a saturated one, it becomes squalane with an “a”, which is stable, safe to use on the skin and has a much longer shelf-life.  

Because squalane mirrors the natural oils in the skin, it is an ideal moisturizer and anti-aging ally, unlikely to irritate or cause an allergic reaction.  It works well with all skin types.  For people with oily skin, squalane won’t clog pores and will help balance oils by reducing natural oil production. For dry skin, squalane helps it stay moisturized.  Squalane is gentle on sensitive skin and works to reduce redness and provide soothing comfort.  It works well on combination skin, too, by actively balancing what your skin craves in real time and providing homeostasis by balancing oil production.  

Why should squalane be part of your skincare routine?  Simplest reason -- hydrated skin looks healthier!  Products containing squalane help fight aging by combating free radicals and the skin damage that comes with it at the cellular level. It minimizes the look of fine lines and wrinkles, giving you a youthful, refreshed look.  With consistent use, squalane can help with collagen production, firming and tightening the skin. Because squalane is lightweight, it won’t clog your pores.  Since it has anti-inflammatory properties, it can help  people who struggle with inflammatory skin issues like rosacea, dermatitis and inflammatory acne. 

Skin Veneer from Dp Dermaceuticals is an incredible example of a luxurious moisturizer that also provides barrier protection from the environmental conditions that damage skin.  The potent combination of botanicals, peptides, proteins and cholesterol which make up our skin’s natural protection, allows Skin Veneer to mimic the skin’s natural barrier function.  The addition of squalane is essential to help balance oil production and add powerful anti-aging functionality. 

Brite Lite from Dp Dermaceuticals is the perfect way to stay moisturized while brightening your complexion as well as diffusing acne.  Fighting pigmentation with ingredients like licorice root and kojic acid, it employs squalane for its bio-identical antioxidant protection and comfort.  Barrier function is reinforced by this effective ingredient that also provides soothing comfort.