When it comes to skincare, some ingredients quietly do all the work without making a big fuss; squalane is one of them. This lightweight, non-greasy oil has become a favourite in the beauty world because of how gentle and effective it is on the skin. It helps lock in moisture, softens the skin, and works well with almost every skin type, including oily and sensitive skin. Whether you’re just starting your skincare journey or you’re already deep into it, understanding squalane can help you level up your routine without doing too much. In this article, we will dive into everything you need to know about squalane.

WHAT IS SQUALANE

Squalane is a stable, hydrogenated version of squalene (with an e), which our skin naturally produces. As we age, our natural production slows down, which is why adding squalane to your skincare routine can help maintain that smooth, hydrated glow. It mimics the skin’s natural oils, which makes it a perfect fit for boosting skin health without causing irritation or clogging pores.

 

5 WAYS TO INCORPORATE SQUALANE INTO YOUR SKINCARE ROUTINE

 

USE SQUALANE AS A LIGHTWEIGHT MOISTURISER

If you have oily, acne-prone, or sensitive skin, using heavy creams can sometimes feel like too much. That’s where squalane comes in. It works perfectly as a moisturiser on its own, especially during the dry season when your skin needs extra hydration, but you don’t want to feel greasy. Just a few drops pressed gently into damp skin after cleansing can help lock in moisture and leave your skin feeling soft and balanced.

MIX A FEW DROPS INTO YOUR FOUNDATION OR BB CREAM

Sometimes, makeup can leave your face looking flat or cakey, especially if your skin is dry. A simple hack is to mix 1–2 drops of squalane into your liquid foundation or BB cream before applying it. This not only gives your skin a dewy, healthy glow, but it also makes blending smoother and helps prevent your makeup from cracking throughout the day. It’s like a skincare-makeup combo in one step.

ADD IT TO YOUR NIGHTTIME SKINCARE ROUTINE

Your skin repairs itself overnight, so giving it the right ingredients can make a big difference. After applying your toner or serum at night, seal everything in with a few drops of squalane as your final step. It acts like a barrier, locking in all the goodness from the products underneath while nourishing your skin as you sleep. You’ll wake up to softer, more refreshed skin without that heavy feeling some night creams leave behind.

USE IT TO SOOTHE DRY OR IRRITATED PATCHES

Squalane isn’t just for your whole face; it can also work as a spot treatment for dry or irritated areas. If you have flaky spots around your nose, rough elbows, or even post-shaving irritation, dabbing a small amount of squalane can calm the skin and add instant hydration. Its anti-inflammatory properties make it gentle enough to use anywhere, even around the eyes or on eczema-prone skin.

BOOSTS THE BENEFITS OF YOUR SERUM AND CREAMS

You don’t have to replace your current products to enjoy the benefits of squalane. One of the easiest ways to use it is to layer it after your serum or moisturiser to boost its effects. Since squalane helps seal in moisture, it keeps your skin hydrated for longer and helps the active ingredients in your other products work more effectively.

Squalane is one of those skincare ingredients that proves simple and can be powerful. It’s lightweight, versatile, and easy to use, making it perfect for all skin types and routines. Whether you’re looking for something to hydrate your skin, improve makeup application, or soothe dry patches, squalane does it all.

 

Dorcas Akintoye
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Dorcas Akintoye is a versatile writer with a passion for beauty, fashion, relationships, and culinary delight. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for storytelling, she adds a touch of elegance to every topic she explores. She is a writer at THEWILL DOWNTOWN.