What is Squalene?
Squalene is a triterpene, an organic substance widely distributed in nature. Particularly abundant in shark liver, from which it takes its name, it is an intermediate compound in the biosynthesis of sterols, very important substances in the physiology of animals and plants.
Functions
In the human body, squalene is one of the most important constituents of sebum, an oily substance that keeps the superficial lostrate of the epidermis hydrated, slowing the evaporation of water. The sebum also protects the skin from insults of various kinds (detergents, chemicals, micro-organisms, solar radiation, etc.).
Some researches attribute to squalene also a protective action against the cancer of the skin, thanks to its ability to fight free radicals and absorb harmful solar radiations.
Synthesis
In the human body, squalene is produced from the CoA vinegar derived from the metabolism of varinutrients (carbohydrates, proteins and especially fat) and is rapidly converted into cholesterol. On the level of sebaceous glands, on the other hand, there is a lack of enzymes necessary to make this conversion and this is why squalene is particularly abundant in sebum.
Loans
Squalene is used in various fields, from the medical-pharmaceutical one, up to the field of cosmetics.
Medical and pharmaceutical field
Squalene is used in the production of vaccines, to enhance its activity thanks to its immunostimulatory action (for more information:
Dangers of squalene contained in vaccines).
Cosmetics
As mentioned, squalene is naturally part of the composition of sebum, thus contributing to the maintenance of the hydro-lipid film that covers the epidermis.
It is thanks to the maintenance of the integrity of the hydro-lipid film that squalene is able to exert a moisturizing action (preventing the water contained in the deeper skin layers to evaporate) and a protective action, protecting the skin and the skin. organism from the aggressions of pathogens.
The introduction of squalene in the cosmetic field is relatively recent and is justified by the properties attributed to it as those listed above and among which we also find:
- Soothing and emollient properties;
- Antioxidant properties, since squalene has been shown to be able to counteract the harmful action of free radicals and UV rays;
- Anti-aging properties (or anti-aging, if you prefer).
Once applied, the squalene is absorbed quickly without leaving the skin greasy, thus making its use rather comfortable.
Anti-aging action
In the cosmetic field, anti-aging activity is certainly among the most appreciated properties of squalene.
Since over the years the sebaceous production of the skin is reduced, the use of ad hoc supplements and topical applications based on squalene can help to reduce the signs of aging.
Moreover, given its antioxidant and protective properties of the skin against UV rays, it can also be useful to counteract and prevent photo-aging. Not surprisingly, free radicals and UV rays are among the main causes of premature skin aging, with consequent appearance of the signs of aging such as wrinkles and skin spots.
At the same time, even the precious emollient and nourishing activities that squalene is equipped with can contribute to the anti-aging effect, preventing skin dryness, one of the predisposing factors to the onset of wrinkles.
Perhaps it was no coincidence, therefore, that the anti-wrinkle cream used by Cleopatra (69-30 BC) was based on olive oil (rich in squalene), milk, incense and juniper berries.
Side effects
Normally, squalene used in cosmetics (therefore used topically) is well tolerated and does not cause side effects. However, in some cases, it has been shown to possess comedogenic activity, therefore, its use in people with impure, mixed or oily skin should be carried out with caution, better if under medical supervision.
Furthermore, as with any other substance, squalene can also trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
Deepening: Dangers of squalene contained in vaccines
squalane
Squalane (in English " squalane ") is a derivative of squalene, obtained by hydrogenation of squalene, representing the saturated form of this substance. The elimination of double bonds decreases the susceptibility to oxidation and increases the shelf life of the product.
In a sense, squalane can therefore be defined as the "stable substitute" of squalene, precisely because it lacks oxidizable double bonds. However, squalane has properties similar to those of squalene. Therefore, it exerts a protective, moisturizing and emollient effect on the skin.
Thanks to these characteristics and to its particular stability, squalane is widely used in numerous skin care products and, in particular, in products for sensitive skin such as those of children (for more detailed information: Squalano in cosmetics).
Deepening: Squalano in cosmetics
