If you’re into skincare, you’ve probably heard of squalane, a lightweight yet deeply hydrating ingredient that mimics the skin’s natural oils. But did you know that squalane is actually derived from squalene, a lipid our skin naturally produces?
As we age, our natural squalene levels decline, leading to dryness, loss of elasticity, and an impaired skin barrier. Thankfully, squalane is a stable, highly effective version of squalene that can replenish moisture, strengthen the skin barrier, and keep skin youthful.
At AmaSKN, we use sustainably sourced, sugarcane-derived squalane in our Rainforest Radiance Firming Peptide Cream and Rainforest Beauty Drops to deliver deep hydration while supporting healthy skin function. Let’s dive into the science behind this powerful ingredient.
Squalene vs. Squalane: What’s the Difference?
Many people confuse squalene and squalane, but understanding the difference is key:
- Squalene (with an "e") is a naturally occurring lipid found in human skin, plants, and deep-sea sharks. It is highly unstable and prone to oxidation when exposed to air, which limits its effectiveness in skincare.
- Squalane (with an "a") is a hydrogenated version of squalene, making it more stable, non-oxidizing, and ideal for long-term use in skincare.
Historically, squalene was sourced from shark liver oil, a practice that led to the unnecessary killing of millions of sharks. However, plant-derived squalane, typically sourced from olives, rice bran, and sugarcane, has become the gold standard for ethical, sustainable, and highly effective skincare.
At AmaSKN, we only use sugarcane-derived squalane, ensuring that our products are vegan, cruelty-free, and environmentally responsible.
The Science-Backed Benefits of Squalane for Skin
1. Deep Hydration Without Clogging Pores
Squalane is a lightweight, non-greasy emollient that absorbs quickly into the skin. Unlike heavier oils that can feel greasy or clog pores, squalane is non-comedogenic, meaning it hydrates deeply without causing breakouts.
2. Strengthens the Skin Barrier
Your skin barrier acts as a shield against pollutants, UV damage, and environmental stressors. Squalane reinforces this protective layer, preventing moisture loss and keeping your skin balanced and resilient.
3. Fights Fine Lines and Wrinkles
One of the biggest culprits of premature aging is dehydration. When skin lacks moisture, fine lines become more visible. Squalane helps plump the skin, smooth out wrinkles, and boost elasticity, making it a must-have anti-aging ingredient.
4. Supports a Healthy Microbiome
Squalane works harmoniously with the skin’s natural microbiome, helping maintain a balanced, non-irritating environment. This makes it perfect for sensitive skin, rosacea-prone skin, and those dealing with inflammation or redness.
5. Protects Against Free Radical Damage
Squalane has antioxidant properties that help neutralize free radicals, which are responsible for collagen breakdown, uneven skin tone, and premature aging. It works even better when combined with other antioxidants like vitamin E and botanical oils, as found in our Rainforest Beauty Drops.
Sustainability: Why Sugarcane-Derived Squalane is the Best Choice
Squalane produced in Brazil, particularly when derived from sustainably grown sugarcane, is considered highly sustainable due to its minimal environmental impact. Unlike other crops that contribute to deforestation, sugarcane-derived squalane:
✅ Utilizes existing farmland instead of requiring new land clearing
✅ Avoids deforestation, protecting biodiversity and rainforests
✅ Leverages renewable energy sources, as sugarcane processing often incorporates biofuel byproducts for a lower carbon footprint
This makes sugarcane-derived squalane the most eco-friendly and ethical choice, aligning with AmaSKN’s commitment to high-performance skincare that respects the planet.
Squalane in AmaSKN: The Power of Rainforest Skincare
We’ve infused sugarcane-derived squalane into two of our most-loved products:
🌿 Rainforest Radiance Firming Peptide Cream – A luxurious, firming moisturizer that blends squalane, peptides, and botanical extracts to improve skin elasticity, hydration, and resilience.
🌿 Rainforest Beauty Drops – A multi-purpose oil infused with 20% squalane, plus passion fruit oil, cacay oil (a natural bio-retinol), buriti oil, and acai oil, designed to hydrate, protect, and restore radiance to the face, body, and hair.
Together, these products lock in moisture, enhance skin health, and keep your complexion glowing with the power of the Amazon Rainforest.
The Bottom Line: Why Your Skin Needs Squalane
Squalane is one of the most effective, science-backed hydrators available in skincare today. It’s lightweight, non-greasy, and biocompatible with our skin’s natural lipids. By incorporating squalane-powered products like our Rainforest Radiance Firming Peptide Cream and Rainforest Beauty Drops into your routine, you can ensure your skin stays hydrated, plump, and youthful—naturally.