After how long can we see the effects of squalane on the skin?
- A few reminders about squalane, a star ingredient in cosmetics for several years now
- How long should I wait before noticing the effects of squalane on the skin?
- Sources
A few reminders about squalane, a star ingredient in cosmetics for several years now.
Squalane is the hydrogenated form of squalene, a lipid that makes up human sebum, a skin-protecting agent that contributes to the formation of the hydrolipidic film. The use of squalane is often preferred over squalene in skin and hair care because this chemical form is more stable (less susceptible to oxidation).
Squalane isperfectly assimilatedby skin cells.Non-greasyandnon-comedogenic, it does not clog pores and quickly penetrates the epidermis to soften its touch. This lipid contribution combats skin dryness and helps repair the skin's hydrolipidic film, enabling it to perform its primary function: preventing the body's water from evaporating. The skin remains hydrated for longer, and the feelings of tightness characteristic of dry skin are reduced. Squalane also helps prevent dehydration fine lines. Besides the skin, it can be applied to the hair as a heat-protective treatment. Squalane makes the hair shiny and limits split ends due to its moisturizing properties.
Regarding its extraction method, squalane has long been a subject of controversy. Indeed, even today, it can be extracted from shark livers for economic reasons. This is a true ecological disaster as plant-based alternatives have been available for several years:Squalane can indeed be extracted from sugarcane, wheat germ, palm trees, and olives.At Typology, we only incorporate plant-based squalane in our skincare products; this comes from the unsaponifiable fraction of olive oil or sugarcane.
How long should I wait before noticing the effects of squalane on the skin?
Its emollient property can be appreciated within a few minutes. Your skin will become smoother and softer a few minutes after applying squalane.
However, to benefit from a firming effect due to collagen strengthening, you will need to use a squalane-based treatment every day for at least four weeks to see noticeable results. Four weeks corresponds to the time of a cellular regeneration cycle.
28 days. During this cycle, new cells are born at the level of the basal layer, which is the deepest layer of the epidermis. As the cycle progresses, these cells migrate to the skin's surface. During this process, they lose their nuclei and transform into dead cells. They then make up the horny layer, the most superficial layer of the epidermis. The dead cells or keratinocytes are then shed (either naturally, or through chemical or mechanical exfoliation) and a new cell cycle begins.
Therefore, 28 days corresponds to the time it takes for the skin to regenerate and fully integrate the benefits of the treatment you regularly apply. This time span is necessary to observe its effects!
Sources:
ALLISON A. C. Squalene and squalane emulsions as adjuvants. Methods 19 (1999).
KARADENIZ F. & al. Biological importance and applications of squalene and squalane. Advances in Food and Nutrition Research (2012).
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