What is Squalane and Why Use It In Skincare?
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Madewell Sleeveless Denim Shirt (s/o, similar) | Agolde Parker Denim Shorts | Squalane and Mineral SPF 45 Sunscreen (c/o) | 100% Squalane Oil (c/o) | Squalane + Antioxidant Cleansing Wipes (c/o) | Squalane + Probiotic Gel Moisturizer (c/o)
A little over a month ago, I received an invite to a skincare event. I politely declined, because they weren't cruelty-free and nontoxic. To my surprise, I was greeted with another email from them saying that that was okay, but how about trying another one of the brands they represented that fell under what I was looking for. I quickly looked at the brand and said heck yes!
Enter Biossance. You might recognize the name, because I mentioned them in my Skincare Tips for the Traveler post, as well as my post on 15 Favorite Travel Products. So what makes Biossance special, besides being another brand rocking the cruelty-free and nontoxic space? Because let me tell you that is a pretty small arena! It's one word and it's called Squalane! So what the heck is squalane?!
Your body produces squalene (note the "e"). Once you hit your late 20s, your body starts producing less and less of it, which essential causes dry and dull skin. Squalane is not only responsible for hydration in our skin, but also protection, so it's kind of scary, that as we age, we make less of it. Our bodies aren't the only ones that produce it though - it's actually found in shark liver, hence the name. Squalus is actually the genus of sharks! Don't worry. Biossance does not use our shark friends in their skincare. Squalene is also found in certain plants, which is what you'll find in the Biossance line. Squalene is extremely unstable and does not last, so to make it more stable and usable, it is hydrogenated into squalane! (note the "a").
Biossance makes their squalane from the renewable source of sugarcane, which they bio-ferment into the goodness you find in their skincare line! Their products instantly hydrate and help your skin to bring back its natural glow. Okay but what else can squalane do and what is it good for? Here's 6 things I found interesting:
- skin regeneration - aids in skin producing cells, which helps fight against wrinkles and age spots
- skin protector - prevents free radicals from entering the system, which helps against premature aging
- skin healer - provides moisture and pushes skin to regain it's natural balance and elasticity; it's good for face, hair, and body
- skin for all - great for all skin types, even oily skin; it decreases the production of excess oil
- skin health - can decrease skin flare ups, allergies, or irritations, like eczema or psoriasis
- skin beauty - increases blood circulation, which helps ensure even skin tone and even varicose veins
Sooo I'm sure you're like cool, but how do I incorporate it into my skincare regimen? Biossance actually has a whole line from cleansers to oils, but here are some of the items I'm currently using:
Squalane and Mineral SPF 45 Sunscreen (c/o) - I'm going to talk more about this on another post, but I've been using this for about a month and I love it! It's a little harder to rub in than my SuperGoop! Unseen sunscreen, but this one is better for you and EWG verified, which is hard to come by regarding sunscreen! I use it every morning as the last step in my skincare routine, before I begin my makeup routine.
100% Squalane Oil (c/o) - I don't have my oil regimen down pat yet, but I've been using this one nightly, at least once a week. I really like that it is scentless and weightless and can be used really on anything!! I have put it on my face of course, but also my feet and elbows! Next time I wash my hair, I am going to try putting some on the tips. This is also EWG verified.
Squalane + Antioxidant Cleansing Wipes (c/o) - As a person who used to rely on face wipes instead of actually washing my face, I love these! They are perfect for an afternoon gym sesh or your carry on bag for your next flight. Anddd of course EWG verified.
Squalane + Probiotic Gel Moisturizer (c/o) -I just started using this in the past couple of days and it will most definitely be on a blog post soon. I of course liked it because it was EWG verified, but was most drawn to it because it will be perfect for this summer weather that is apparently already here! It is lightweight and hydrating, without being to creamy. Love it so far! I have been using it in the morning, regularly.
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In addition to making an effective skincare line that doesn't hurt the environment, humans, or animals, Biossance has quite the resume! Their scientists created a cure for malaria thanks to biotechnology. After they did that, they wanted to continue changing the world with their knowledge and looked to skincare. Thanks to the biotechnology that helped cure Malaria, they were able to create the plant-based squalane that a lot of people have grown to love. When you purchase Biossance, you are helping them continue to fight malaria, through Zagaya's Drops for Life foundation. They also donate to Fighting Pretty (an organization that helps women through cancer treatments), Women in Stem, and Reclaim13 (which is devoted to ending the sexual exploitation of children).
Have you tried products with squalane in it before? What about any Biossance products? Let me know about any must tries!!
P.S. if you liked this post, you'll probably enjoy these:
Benefits of Blue Tansy in your Skincare Regimen
What's a Toner and Why Use it?
Benefits of Scraping and Rolling Your Face
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