Squalane is a versatile moisturizing ingredient that is commonly used in skincare and beauty products. It is a natural emollient that helps to hydrate and soften the skin, making it a popular choice for face creams, serums, and lotions. Additionally, squalane has antioxidant properties that can help protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals. Its lightweight and non-greasy texture make it suitable for all skin types, making it a staple in many people’s daily skincare routines. Overall, squalane plays a significant role in maintaining healthy and nourished skin, making it a valuable component of everyday self-care practices.
Table of Contents:
- 💡 Commercial Applications
- ⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
- 🏭 Production & Procurement
- ⚠️ Safety Considerations
- 🔬 Potential Research Directions
- 🧪 Related Compounds
💡 Commercial Applications
Squalane, a saturated hydrocarbon derived from squalene, has various commercial and industrial applications. It is commonly used in skincare products due to its emollient properties, which help to moisturize and soften the skin. Additionally, squalane is used in the cosmetics industry as an ingredient in lipsticks, foundations, and hair products to impart a smooth and silky feel.
In the industrial sector, squalane is used as a lubricant and solvent due to its high lubricity and low viscosity. It is also utilized in the production of plastics and rubber as a processing aid to improve flow properties. Furthermore, squalane is used in the manufacture of various industrial coatings, such as automotive paints, to enhance the gloss and durability of the final product.
Squalane also has significant drug and medication applications. It is commonly used in pharmaceutical formulations as a carrier, solubilizer, and penetration enhancer for active pharmaceutical ingredients. Due to its skin-replenishing properties, squalane is used in topical medications to help restore the skin barrier and improve the skin’s overall health. Additionally, squalane is used in certain vaccines as an adjuvant to enhance the immune response to the vaccine antigens.
⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
Squalane is a colorless and odorless liquid with a silky texture. It is often used in cosmetics for its emollient properties, providing hydration and maintaining skin’s moisture balance.
With a molar mass of approximately 422.82 g/mol and a density of around 0.81 g/cm3, squalane is comparable to common food items such as olive oil (molar mass of 884.49 g/mol, density of 0.91 g/cm3) and canola oil (molar mass of 842.99 g/mol, density of 0.92 g/cm3).
Squalane has a melting point of around -50°C and a boiling point of approximately 330°C. In comparison, butter has a melting point of around 32-35°C and a boiling point of 177°C. This indicates that squalane has a much higher boiling point than common food items but a lower melting point.
Squalane is insoluble in water and has a low viscosity, making it easy to spread and absorb into the skin. This contrasts with common food items like sugar and salt, which are highly soluble in water, and honey and syrup, which have higher viscosity levels.
🏭 Production & Procurement
Squalane is primarily produced through the hydrogenation of Squalene, a natural organic compound derived from shark liver oil or plant sources. The hydrogenation process converts the unsaturated bonds in Squalene to saturated bonds, resulting in the production of Squalane, a stable and inert oil.
Squalane can be procured from a variety of sources, including cosmetic manufacturers, specialty chemical suppliers, and online retailers. It is commonly transported in bulk quantities in drums, intermediate bulk containers (IBC), or isotanks. Due to its stability and resistance to oxidation, Squalane is relatively easy to transport over long distances without the need for specialized handling or temperature control.
Squalane is commonly used in a wide range of industries, including cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and personal care products. Its versatility and compatibility with a variety of ingredients make it a valuable component in many formulations. Due to its popularity and widespread use, Squalane is readily available for purchase from a variety of suppliers around the world.
⚠️ Safety Considerations
Safety considerations for Squalane primarily revolve around its flammability. Squalane is a highly flammable liquid and should be stored away from sources of ignition. It is also important to avoid contact with skin and eyes, as it may cause irritation or allergic reactions in some individuals. When handling Squalane, appropriate personal protective equipment such as gloves and goggles should be worn to minimize risk of exposure.
Hazard statements for Squalane include “Causes skin irritation” and “May cause an allergic skin reaction.” These statements indicate that direct contact with Squalane may lead to skin irritation or allergic reactions in some individuals. It is important to handle this substance with caution and take necessary steps to protect oneself from potential hazards.
Precautionary statements for Squalane include “Keep away from heat/sparks/open flames/hot surfaces” and “Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection.” These statements emphasize the importance of storing Squalane in a cool, well-ventilated area away from sources of ignition, as well as using appropriate personal protective equipment when handling the substance. Following these precautionary measures will help minimize the risk of accidents or injuries associated with Squalane.
🔬 Potential Research Directions
Research into squalane, a naturally occurring hydrocarbon found in plants and animals, has shown promising potential in the fields of skincare and pharmaceuticals. One direction of research could focus on the impact of squalane on skin barrier function and hydration, leading to the development of new skincare products for dry and sensitive skin.
Additionally, squalane has been studied for its antioxidant properties, which could contribute to its potential use in anti-aging formulations. Research in this area may explore the mechanisms by which squalane protects skin cells from oxidative stress, as well as its potential to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.
Furthermore, squalane has shown potential as a drug delivery agent due to its ability to enhance the solubility and absorption of hydrophobic compounds. Future research may investigate the use of squalane in improving the delivery of poorly soluble drugs, leading to the development of more effective pharmaceutical formulations.
🧪 Related Compounds
One similar compound to Squalane based upon molecular structure is Squalene. Squalene is a natural organic compound that is a precursor to Squalane. It is a polyunsaturated hydrocarbon with the formula C30H50. Squalene is found in various plant sources, including olives, wheat germ, and rice bran.
Another compound that shares a similar molecular structure to Squalane is Isosqualane. Isosqualane is a saturated hydrocarbon derived from Squalane. It has the same molecular formula as Squalane (C30H62) but differs in its branching structure. Isosqualane is often used in cosmetics and skincare products for its lightweight and non-greasy properties.
A related compound to Squalane is Phytosqualane. Phytosqualane is a plant-derived version of Squalane, typically sourced from olive oil or sugarcane. Like Squalane, Phytosqualane is a saturated hydrocarbon with the same molecular formula (C30H62). It is often used in skincare products for its moisturizing and emollient properties.
