Ingredient Highlight - Squalane

Want smooth, soft, well-hydrated skin? Give Squalane a try! Chances are a few of the products in your skincare stash contain Squalane. It is a popular ingredient, and for a good reason. It is super hydrating, but what is even more important, it is well tolerated by ALL skin types.

What is Squalane?

To begin with, we need to differentiate between squalane and squalene. Squalene is a lipid that naturally occurs in the human body. It is a part of sebum and produced by the sebaceous glands. Its main function is to lubricate the skin, keep our moisture barrier balanced, and our skin hydrated. In addition, it has antioxidant benefits and protects our skin from free radical damage. As with other compounds (like Hyaluronic acid, collagen, etc), with age, the levels of Squalene in the body deplete.

Squalene is an unstable ingredient and oxidises quickly. Because of this, it is very tricky to use in skincare formulas. It needs to go through the process of hydrogenation, which turns it into Squalane (with an a), a saturated oil. It has a longer shelf-life and a lighter texture.

The sources of Squalane

Shark liver used to be one of the primary sources of Squalene. But, the skincare industry moved on from these unethical practices. Nowadays, olive oil, rice bran, and wheat germ oils are the main sources of Squalane.

The benefits of Squalane for the skin

Squalane has plenty of benefits for the skin. When you combine that with the fact it has a light texture, it is no wonder it is a popular oil for the majority of skin types.

• Emollient properties - it is an excellent moisturizer that leaves the skin hydrated, soft, and plump. It also seals in the moisture, aids barrier repair, and prevents TEWL (Transepidermal water loss). This makes it a great choice for dry and dehydrated skin.

• Antioxidant - Squalane has antioxidant properties and protects the skin against free radical damage. Over time, this can help minimise the signs of aging.

• Squalane can help soothe and repair skin prone to eczema, psoriasis, or just regular dry patches.

• Suits the majority of skin types - because of its light texture and natural antibacterial properties, Squalane can be used by most skin types (even sensitive and oily). It sinks in quickly and leaves no greasy after-all as well as helps regulate oil production. This makes it a good choice for oily skin types. That said, if you never used Squalane before, make sure to patch test first. It is also less likely to cause issues for sensitive skin.

How to use Squalane?

As a stand-alone product, Squalane can be used as the last step in your skincare routine or mixed with your moisturiser for an added shot of hydration. If it is one of the ingredients in the product, use it as directed on the product.

Ishtar products that contain Squalane

ProRepair facial oil

With 2% Tocoretinate-10 and 5% Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate, ProRepair facial oil is formulated to help fade post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and minimise the signs of aging. Ascorbyl Teraisopalmitate is a stable ester of vitamin C. It fades hyperpigmentation, boosts collagen synthesis, and has anti-inflammatory properties. Tocoretinate-10 is a retinoic acid ester that offers the benefits of retinoic acid without being irritating to the skin.

Sebupore Exfoliant oil with LHA

Sebupore is an exfoliating facial oil formulated with an ester of Salicylic acid, Lipohydroxy acid. It eases congestion in the pores and, over time, improves skin texture, fades hyperpigmentation, and minimises fine lines and wrinkles. The formula also contains Green Cold Pressed Coffee oil for its antioxidant benefits.

Hydrocharge facial oil

Hydrocharge facial oil helps restore compromised moisture barrier and combats stress-induced skin damage. Organic White Tea extract has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Microalgae extract protects the skin against stress reactions related to cortisol and adrenaline. Anhydrous Hyaluronic Acid Liposomes with Tripeptide-29 encourages collagen synthesis and reduces inflammation.