Squalane for Skin

Squalane, a derivative of squalene, has garnered significant attention in dermatological research for its potential benefits to skin health. Its presence in the skin's natural lipid barrier makes it a subject of interest for understanding and potentially enhancing various aspects of skin function. Several studies have explored the properties and applications of squalane in dermatological contexts, reflecting growing interest in this naturally-occurring compound for skincare applications.

Protocols Studied in Research

[1] Clinical evaluation of fullerene-C60 dissolved in squalane for anti-wrinkle cosmetics. (Cited by: 8) (PMID: 21137794)

• Protocol: A randomized, matched pair double-blind study with 23 Japanese women evaluating a cream containing LipoFullerene (LF-SQ) over 8 weeks. The LF-SQ cream was applied to one half of the face, with a squalane-only cream serving as placebo for the other half. Clinical evaluations included visual observation, photographs, silicone replicas, and instrumental analysis of skin properties.
• Outcome: The LF-SQ cream significantly improved anti-wrinkle formation and skin roughness compared to placebo after 8 weeks of twice-daily application, enhanced skin moisture, and showed no severe side effects.

Research Interpretation: Summary and Conclusion

The available evidence suggests significant positive outcomes for squalane in dermatological applications, though the clinical research base is limited. One well-designed randomized, matched pair double-blind study (PMID 21137794) provides the most robust clinical evidence, demonstrating squalane's effectiveness in a specific formulation for anti-aging applications in 23 Japanese women over 8 weeks.

This clinical trial showed that a cream containing fullerene-C60 dissolved in squalane significantly improved anti-wrinkle formation and skin roughness compared to a squalane-only placebo, while also enhancing skin moisture. The study's split-face design and comprehensive evaluation methods (including visual observation, photography, silicone replicas, and instrumental analysis) provide reliable evidence for squalane's beneficial effects. Importantly, no severe side effects were reported, suggesting excellent safety and tolerability.

Supporting evidence comes from comprehensive review articles that highlight squalane and squalene's recognized benefits for skin health, particularly their hydrating and emollient activities. These reviews emphasize the compounds' biological importance and increasing demand in nutraceutical and pharmaceutical industries, reflecting their appreciated technological properties and practical applications.

The evidence indicates that squalane's benefits stem from its role in the skin's natural lipid barrier, contributing to improved hydration and emollience. The research suggests particular promise for anti-aging applications, with demonstrated improvements in wrinkle formation and skin texture. However, the clinical evidence is primarily based on one study with a specific population (Japanese women) and a particular formulation combining squalane with fullerene-C60.

While the current evidence is promising, the research base would benefit from additional randomized controlled trials with larger sample sizes, diverse populations, and investigation of squalane as a standalone ingredient versus combination formulations. Further research exploring optimal concentrations, long-term effects, and comparative studies with other established skincare ingredients would strengthen the evidence base for squalane's dermatological applications.

Publications

[1] Kim SK; Karadeniz F (2012). Biological importance and applications of squalene and squalane Advances in food and nutrition research 65 :223-33. (PMID: 22361190)

[2] Kato S; Taira H; Aoshima H; Saitoh Y; Miwa N (2010). Clinical evaluation of fullerene-C60 dissolved in squalane for anti-wrinkle cosmetics Journal of nanoscience and nanotechnology 10 (10) :6769-74. (PMID: 21137794)

[3] Naziri E; Tsimidou MZ (2013). Formulated squalene for food related applications Recent patents on food, nutrition & agriculture 5 (2) :83-104. (PMID: 23270393)