MitoSkin

Longevity Lotion

Sun Protecting

Comprehensive Cosmetic Industry Ingredient Guide

THIS IS A UNIVERSAL REFERENCE GUIDE FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES

THE INGRIDIENT BELOW IS NOT USED IN MITOSKIN FORMULATION UNLESS STATED OTHERWISE

Ingredient
Squalane

Squalane

Summary

Squalane is a highly sought-after cosmetic ingredient that is derived from plant sources such as olives and sugarcane. It is a natural emollient that helps to hydrate and moisturize the skin, while also improving its texture and appearance. Squalane is non-comedogenic, making it suitable for all skin types, and has anti-inflammatory properties that can help to soothe and calm irritated skin. Additionally, it has antioxidant properties that can help to protect the skin from environmental stressors and premature aging. Overall, squalane is a versatile and effective ingredient that can provide numerous benefits to the skin.

INCI Name and Common References

INCI Name: Squalane Common Terms: Squalane oil, plant-derived squalane Nicknames: None

Function

Squalane is a highly moisturizing and emollient ingredient that is commonly used in cosmetic formulations. It is a natural oil that is derived from olives, and it is known for its ability to deeply penetrate the skin and provide long-lasting hydration. Squalane is often used in moisturizers, serums, and other skincare products to help improve the texture and appearance of the skin, as well as to protect it from environmental stressors. It is also used in hair care products to help nourish and condition the hair, leaving it soft and shiny. Overall, squalane plays a key role in cosmetic formulation by providing essential hydration and nourishment to the skin and hair.

Science

Squalane is a saturated hydrocarbon that is naturally found in the sebum of human skin. Its physical properties include a high degree of stability, low viscosity, and excellent emollient properties. When applied to the skin, squalane forms a protective barrier that helps to prevent moisture loss and improve skin hydration. It also has antioxidant properties that help to protect the skin from environmental stressors and free radicals. Additionally, squalane has a small molecular size that allows it to penetrate deeply into the skin, where it can help to improve skin texture and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Overall, the physical properties of squalane make it an effective ingredient in skincare products that can help to improve skin health and appearance.

Benefits

1. Deeply moisturizes the skin without leaving a greasy residue. 2. Helps to improve skin elasticity and firmness. 3. Reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. 4. Protects the skin from environmental stressors and free radicals. 5. Soothes and calms irritated or inflamed skin. 6. Helps to regulate oil production and prevent breakouts. 7. Improves the overall texture and tone of the skin. 8. Non-comedogenic and suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin.

Negatives

Squalane is a natural ingredient that is derived from plants or animals. It is commonly used in skincare products due to its moisturizing properties. However, like any other ingredient, it may have some side effects, sensitivities, or potential interactions with other ingredients. One of the possible side effects of squalane is skin irritation. Some people may experience redness, itching, or burning sensation after using products containing squalane. This may be due to an allergic reaction or sensitivity to the ingredient. Another potential side effect of squalane is acne breakouts. Although squalane is non-comedogenic, meaning it does not clog pores, it may still cause breakouts in some people. This may be due to the fact that squalane is an oil-based ingredient, and some people's skin may not tolerate it well. Squalane may also interact with other ingredients in skincare products. For example, if used with retinol or other exfoliating agents, it may increase skin sensitivity and cause irritation. It is important to check the ingredients list of skincare products and avoid using products that contain ingredients that may interact with squalane. In conclusion, while squalane is generally considered safe and well-tolerated, it may have some side effects, sensitivities, or potential interactions with other ingredients. It is important to be aware of these potential issues and to use skincare products containing squalane with caution. If you experience any adverse reactions, it is best to discontinue use and consult a dermatologist.

Source

Squalane is a natural ingredient that is derived from squalene, which is found in the sebum of human skin and in the livers of sharks. However, most squalane used in cosmetics and skincare products is now derived from plant sources such as olives, rice bran, and sugarcane. The processing pathway for squalane involves the hydrogenation of squalene, which removes the double bonds and makes it more stable and less prone to oxidation. The resulting squalane is a clear, odorless, and lightweight oil that is easily absorbed by the skin. It is commonly used in skincare products as a moisturizer, emollient, and skin conditioner due to its ability to improve skin texture and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Safety

Squalane has a high safety rating score based on various rating systems such as EWG Skin Deep. It is considered a low hazard ingredient and has a score of 1-2 on the EWG scale, which means it is safe for use in cosmetics and personal care products. Other sources also rate squalane as safe and non-toxic, making it a popular ingredient in skincare products. Overall, squalane is a safe and effective ingredient that can be used by people with all skin types.

Sustainability

Squalane is a natural ingredient that is derived from plant sources such as olives, wheat germ, and rice bran. It is also found in the sebum of human skin and in the liver of sharks. The use of shark liver oil for squalane extraction has been a controversial issue due to the negative impact on shark populations. However, most squalane used in cosmetics today is derived from plant sources, making it a more sustainable and ethical option. The production of squalane from plant sources has a lower environmental impact compared to the extraction of shark liver oil. Additionally, many companies that use squalane in their products have implemented ethical sourcing practices to ensure that the plant sources are sustainably harvested and that workers are treated fairly. Overall, squalane is a versatile and effective ingredient that can be sourced sustainably and ethically. Consumers can look for products that use plant-derived squalane and are produced by companies with transparent and responsible sourcing practices.

Conclusion

In conclusion, squalane is a versatile ingredient that has numerous benefits for the skin, including moisturizing, anti-aging, and anti-inflammatory properties. It is a natural substance that is found in the sebum of human skin and can also be derived from plant sources. While it is generally considered safe for use in skincare products, there are some concerns about its sustainability and potential negative effects on the environment. Overall, squalane is a valuable ingredient that can provide significant benefits for the skin, but it is important to use it responsibly and consider its impact on the environment.

Leave a Message

Chronic skin issues? Contact us for holistic advice.

powerhouse@mitoskin.org

Copyright 2023 MITOSKIN LLC