Unlike squalane, squalene is a substance in the form of fat or lipid naturally produced by the human body. It is more precisely secreted by the sebaceous glands.
Squalene isone of the components of sebum, along with wax esters and triglycerides.
Its role is to form a protective barrier for the skin, but also to keep it hydrated. It also possesses antioxidant properties that combat the damage caused by free radicals.
Regarding squalane, it is a derivative of squalene. Indeed, in order to obtain it, it is necessary tohydrogenate the squalene. Squalene has a molecular formula of C30H50, while squalane is written as C30H62.
These two molecules therefore have the same number of carbon atoms, but not the same number of hydrogen atoms. In fact, squalane is said to be saturated : oxygen atoms cannot attach to the carbon chain, and therefore squalane is much more stable than squalene. Conversely, squalene is described as unsaturated because it has carbon-carbon double bonds (C=C), which can react with oxygen atoms.
The squalane is a well-known ingredient in skincare. Its excellent affinity with skin and hair, along with its emollient properties, make it a very popular active ingredient for cosmetic products, both in cream and milk formulas as well as in massage oils and hair oils, and also in hair serums. Squalane helps to restore the lipid barrier and protects the skin and hair from dehydration. It is particularly recommended in formulas intended for dry skin.