Squalane and hyaluronic acid are two of the hottest ingredients in skincare right now. Both are showing up in a variety of products, from serums to face washes, moisturizers, and more.
Both are hydrating ingredients, but with different properties and functions. Depending on your needs, you may find that one or the other is a better fit for your routine.
To answer all of your burning questions about squalane and hyaluronic acid, we reached out to two dermatologists. Read on to learn what makes each ingredient unique, which one is best for you, and whether you can use them together.
What is squalane? Squalane is a lab-developed, hydrogenated form of squalene, which is “a naturally occurring lipid component of sebum that moisturizes the skin,” says Dr. Blair, FAAD, a board-certified cosmetic and medical dermatologist.
Blair Murphy-Ross, MD “Squalane is an emollient that softens the skin and helps retain moisture in the skin. [It] protects and supports the skin barrier and has antioxidant properties that can reverse and prevent free radical damage.”
If you’re wondering how squalane differs from squalene, Murphy-Ross explains that the former has the skincare benefits of squalene while making it more durable.
This makes squalane more suitable for use in skin care, as squalene is an unstable molecule. As we age, our natural squalene production decreases.
So if you find your skin is getting dry over time, these ingredients can help. “Squalane is also lighter than squalene, so unlike squalene, it’s better suited for acne-prone skin,” Murphy-Ross adds.
What is hyaluronic acid? Hyaluronic acid is a hydrating molecule that can attract and bind up to 1,000 times its weight in water.
“It’s a natural ingredient found in the skin, eyes, and joints that acts as a humectant, or a substance that draws water into the skin,” says Rebecca Marcus, board-certified dermatologist and founder of Maei MD.
Hyaluronic acid has an immediate plumping effect on the skin and can reduce the appearance of fine lines. That makes this hydrophilic ingredient very popular, and you’ll almost certainly see some brand indicate that their serum or moisturizer contains this powerful yet gentle acid.
Squalane vs. Hyaluronic Acid: The Difference Murphy-Ross tells us that the main difference between squalane and hyaluronic acid is their chemical makeup and the way they hydrate the skin. Here’s a little science lesson to explain:
“Squalane is a lipid and hyaluronic acid is a glycosaminoglycan (basically a chain of sugar molecules),” Marcus says. “Hyaluronic acid is a humectant, which draws water into the skin, while squalene is an emollient, which means it acts as a barrier, locking water into the skin.”
Just because they work differently doesn’t mean the two ingredients don’t have a lot in common. “Both help keep the skin healthy and hydrated,” Murphy-Rose says. “Both are hypoallergenic and often suitable for sensitive skin.”
“Both are humectant molecules that help increase the moisture content of the skin,” adds Marcus. “Both occur naturally in the body. Well, almost—squalene is naturally occurring, while squalane is a chemically modified form.”
Which squalane or hyaluronic acid is better for you is up to you. “Both are very effective ingredients that are suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin,” says Murphy-Rose.
“Hyaluronic acid is great for moisturizing oily or acne-prone skin because it is lightweight and brings moisture to the surface of the skin without clogging pores. Squalane is a very effective ingredient for moisturizing dry skin, but
It can also be used in formulas that don’t aggravate acne.”
The frequency of use depends on the type of product, such as serum, lotion, or moisturizer. However, Murphy-Rose generally recommends using it once or twice a day. “Both work well in creams and lotions,” she says.
Can squalane and hyaluronic acid be used together? Yes, you can use squalane and hyaluronic acid together, whether you use separate products or try a formula that contains both. “If you’re using it alone, use hyaluronic acid first because it draws moisture into the skin,” Marcus advises.
“Adding squalane creates a barrier that holds moisture in the skin and prevents it from evaporating.” Ultimately, hyaluronic acid and squalane are great skincare ingredients that benefit most skin types. Because each ingredient helps restore the skin’s natural hydration process, both are great choices if you’re struggling with dryness or dehydration—just make sure you find a formula that works for your general skin type. “Both are great for dry skin, acne-prone skin, inflamed skin, and even sensitive skin,” Marcus says. “It really comes down to personal preference.”
DQH Can I use salicylic acid first and then vitamin C?
It’s easy to create a skincare routine, but knowing how to use it is another thing entirely. In most cases, if you’re not getting the desired skin results, it could be due to the layering of conflicting ingredients. So, is it possible that salicylic acid and vitamin C are such ingredients? Or are these active ingredients the duo that’s been missing from your skincare routine? If you want answers, stick around because today we are going to explain the benefits of salicylic acid and vitamin C and how they can be used in your daily life.
What are the benefits of salicylic acid for skin?
Salicylic acid is one of the most commonly used beta hydroxy acids and is favored by many people with oily, acne-prone skin. This acid is derived from willow bark, and unlike its water-soluble relatives (called alpha-hydroxy acids), salicylic acid is oil-soluble, which means it can penetrate deeper into the lower layers of the skin. Once it reaches the lower layers, it can help unclog pores of excess sebum, dirt, bacteria, debris, and impurities. This results in clearer skin tones and greater definition.
Not only does salicylic acid benefit the underlying layers, but the outer surface of the skin benefits as well. When applied to the skin, salicylic acid removes the buildup of dead skin cells. This is accomplished by breaking the bonds that hold dead cells to the surface. Over time, this can cause the complexion to look dull and prone to acne, blackheads, and other blemishes.
If you’d like to learn more about salicylic acid and how it can improve your skin, check out this dedicated blog post from a beauty insider.
What are the benefits of vitamin C for skin?
Vitamin C is considered one of the most powerful antioxidants, which means it is very effective at fighting free radicals and preventing them from causing further skin damage. Examples of free radicals include pollution, central heating, UV rays and harsh climate. They attack proteins, fats and cell membranes as soon as they come into contact with the skin, causing signs of premature aging such as fine lines and wrinkles as well as hyperpigmentation, flaky patches of skin and loss of elasticity.
Many people usually prefer to use vitamin C in their morning routine as this ingredient gives the complexion a radiant glow. You’ll also find that vitamin C can target areas of hyperpigmentation, plumping the skin and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
The thing about vitamin C is that there are a lot of outdated studies going back to the 1950s that describe vitamin C as an unstable skin component. Thanks to improvements in modern technology, this is no longer the case as all products now contain a stable form of vitamin C.
Visit The Beauty Insider to learn more about vitamin C. So please check out our blog post.
Can I use salicylic acid first and then vitamin C?
Yes, you absolutely can. In fact, it’s thought that using salicylic acid before using vitamin C ensures it penetrates faster and works faster.
This is an efficient way to utilize two power sources, and the reason has to do with pH. For example, the skin’s natural pH is about 4.7, making it slightly acidic. Salicylic acid and vitamin C are also both acidic, and you’ll find that vitamin C is absorbed quickly into the skin. Therefore, using salicylic acid beforehand can increase the acidity of the skin and allow vitamin C to penetrate into the skin faster.
While this is considered an effective way to combine two powerful ingredients, you need to be aware of your skin type and how it reacts to certain active ingredients. Even people with perfect, normal skin can experience skin sensitivity and irritation. Therefore, always consult a doctor or dermatologist before using any new products on your skin.
It’s also important to follow skin application rules. In this case, you need to use the product correctly to ensure you get the best results for your skin. If you’re not sure what I mean, the basic rule for skin is to start with the thinnest consistency and work your way up to the thickest consistency. This prevents a barrier from forming on the surface, preventing other active ingredients from penetrating the skin.
Can I use salicylic acid at night and vitamin C in the morning?
Yes, absolutely, this is considered the most effective way to get returns without any adverse side effects. This is because there is enough time between applications to ensure that the skin’s pH levels return to balance.
You’ll also find that Vitamin C is rich in antioxidants and is perfect for use in the morning to ensure your skin is protected and looking its healthiest. Due to the small size of salicylic acid molecules, it is an acid that is able to reach the deepest parts of the skin. While this is effective at keeping skin clear, it also increases the risk of irritation and photosensitivity. Therefore, many people prefer to use powerful BHAs in their evening routine without exposure to UV rays, pollution, or harsh weather.
Warning: If you avoid using sunscreen every day, none of these ingredients will do what your skin needs. The combination of chemical peels and powerful ingredients increases the risk of further damage to the skin’s surface. Use SPF 50 every day to keep your skin protected and your lipid barrier healthy, even on cloudy days, keeping your skin in top condition.
