Squalane vs Hemisqualane
Hemisqualane and squalane are both emollients derived from squalene, a natural compound found in human sebum and various plants like olives and sugarcane. Squalene, which helps maintain skin hydration and protect the skin barrier, is converted into squalane through hydrogenation to enhance stability and shelf life. Squalane is a fully saturated hydrocarbon, making it highly stable and ideal for deep hydration in serums, moisturizers, and oils. Hemisqualane, derived through a similar process but with a shorter carbon chain, is lighter and less oily, providing quick-absorbing, lightweight hydration suitable for all skin types, including oily and acne-prone skin. Both ingredients are valued in skincare and cosmetic products for their moisturizing and skin-conditioning properties, with hemisqualane also being used in hair care products for its lightweight conditioning and non-greasy feel.
| ASPECT | SQUALANE | HEMISQUALANE |
|---|---|---|
| SOURCE | Olive or Sugarcane | Olive or Sugarcane |
| MOLECULAR WEIGHT | Higher | Lower |
| LIKELIHOOD OF CLOGGING | Non-comedogenic | Non-comedogenic |
| TEXTURE | Heavier, Oilier Feel | Lightweight |
| ABSORPTION | Slower | Quick |
| USES | Serums/Moisturizers | Serums/Hair Care Products |
| SKIN TYPE SUITABILITY | All Skin Types | All Skin Types, including Acne-Prone |
| HYDRATION | Deep Hydration | Lightweight Hydration |
| MOLECULAR STRUCTURE | Longer Carbon Chain | Shorter Carbon Chain |
What Does Hemisqualane Do for Skin?
Lightweight Hydration: Provides moisture without feeling greasy or heavy.
Improves Skin Texture: Enhances smoothness and softness.
Maintains Balance: Keeps the skin’s natural moisture levels balanced.
Balances Oil and Moisture: Hydrates dry areas while controlling oil in the T-zone.
Quick Absorption: Absorbs fast, leaving no residue behind.
Smooths and Evens Skin Tone: Helps create a more uniform texture and tone.
Deep Moisture: Provides long-lasting hydration to parched skin.
Barrier Support: Strengthens the skin barrier to prevent moisture loss.
Soft and Supple Finish: Leaves skin feeling nourished and soft without a heavy feel.
Oil Control: Helps balance excess oil production without clogging pores.
Lightweight Hydration: Delivers moisture without making the skin greasy.
Non-Comedogenic: Soothes the skin while reducing the likelihood of breakouts.
What Does Hemisqualane Do for Hair?
Moisturizing: Hemisqualane helps to lock in moisture, which can reduce frizz by keeping the hair hydrated.
Smoothing: It smooths the hair cuticle, reducing the appearance of frizz and flyaways.
Lightweight: Unlike heavier oils, hemisqualane provides these benefits without weighing the hair down, making it ideal for managing frizz without greasy residue.
Definition: Hemisqualane enhances curl definition by providing light hydration and smoothing properties, helping curls to maintain their shape.
Hydration: It offers lightweight moisture, which is crucial for curly hair that tends to be dry and prone to frizz.
Frizz Control: By reducing frizz and adding shine, hemisqualane helps curls look more defined and healthy.
Shine: Hemisqualane imparts a natural shine to straight hair without making it look oily or greasy.
Softness: It makes straight hair feel softer and smoother by providing light, non-greasy hydration.
Manageability: Helps to reduce tangles and make straight hair more manageable, enhancing its natural sleekness.
