Squalane Oil

An essential oil for all skin types, Squalane is a firm favourite in my clinic because of its real affinity with the skin. It’s a naturally-occurring component of the skin’s lipid barrier – the building blocks that make up our skin. The squalene inside our lipid barrier protects us against environmental stressors and also acts as a quencher of singlet oxygen; protecting the barrier function from lipid peroxidation, which can occur due to environmental damage.

A natural component of sebum, it regulates oil production on the skin’s surface, making it the perfect balancing oil. The amount of squalane your skin produces declines with age, leaving it rough, dry, and vulnerable. Fortunately, because our skin naturally produces squalene, it instantly recognises it when applied topically. This replenishes the lipid barrier, softening and freeing tissue; it’s like a lock and key: it fits perfectly.

Considered a great multi-tasking oil – it’s lightweight, non-greasy, non-comedogenic, antibacterial, and safe for sensitive skin – it can be used to address a catalogue of complexion complaints without irritation. Such conditions include dryness, seborrheic dermatitis, eczema, acne, inflammation, and excess sebum.

I was also keen to harness the abundant, natural form of Vitamin E within this oil. A powerful, oil-soluble antioxidant, its role is two-fold on the skin: it neutralises free radicals; moisturising the skin and visibly improving the appearance of premature ageing, whilst preserving the skin’s oil, giving it longevity.