Squalane is increasingly sought after by soon-to-be moms for its incredible moisturizing and emollient properties that allegedly help deal with skin changes during pregnancy such as dry skin, stretch marks, acne, redness, etc. This oil has been around for over 20 years but is it truly safe to use while pregnant and/or breastfeeding? That is the question we will be answering in today’s article to help you make the best decision for you and your little one (congrats by the way!!).
Is Squalane Safe For Use During Pregnancy?
Although there are only limited studies of the use of squalane during pregnancy, it is considered safe to use. General safety guidelines published by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review found squalane to be non-irritant and hypoallergenic for humans.
Background On Squalane And Pregnancy
Squalane is an oil-like lipid that resembles squalene, a natural lipid found in sebum and contributes to moisturizing the skin. It is equally naturally found in sebum however in small quantities. Still, it can be sourced from plants like olives, rice bran, and sugarcane, for its emollient and moisturizing properties and can be safely used during pregnancy.
When applied topically it replenishes the skin’s natural reserves that get depleted over time, reduces transepidermal water loss, and helps strengthen the skin’s barrier.
Can You Use Squalane Oil While Pregnant?
If you are considering adding squalane to your skincare routine during pregnancy the first thing to note is the difference between SQUALENE and SQUALANE.
While squalene is one of the lipids naturally found in our skin's sebum (and in some plants and animals), it is unstable when used in skincare products. Squalene tends to oxidize or become rancid very fast thus, degrading products, and can potentially irritate the skin. While pregnant the last thing you need is a bacterial or fungal infection.
Squalane with an ‘a’, on the other hand, is the stabilized form of plant-derived squalene, that has undergone hydrogenation to increase its shelf life while retaining all the amazing benefits of squalene.
It is safe to use squalane on the skin during pregnancy to tackle issues such as skin dryness, it helps improve skin elasticity and hydration and overall, improves the skin’s barrier for healthy skin.
How To Safely Use Squalane During Pregnancy And Breastfeeding
During and after pregnancy, your skin and hair can benefit from using squalane regularly. This oil can be used on its own, as a moisturizer applied directly to the skin, but note that when breastfeeding, you should not apply to parts of the skin that will come in contact with your baby’s mouth. This is because squalane is poorly absorbed when ingested by humans.
Squalane can also be found in products like cleansers, serums, or moisturizers, to help hydrate and nourish the skin. The type of product you go for will depend on what your skin needs.
If your skin is dry or sensitive due to hormonal imbalances, using a squalane-based cleanser, moisturizer, or serum will be a good way to soothe and hydrate your skin. If you are struggling with stretch marks, 100% plant-based squalane oil can come in handy to keep your skin moisturized and improve your skin’s elasticity.
What Are The Benefits Of Squalane During Pregnancy?
Moisturizing And Hydration:
During pregnancy, skin tends to become dry as it stretches to accommodate the baby’s growth. This increases transepidermal water loss and can even cause itchiness. Squalane’s emollient and moisture-retaining properties help the skin stay hydrated, smooth, and soft.
Soothes Sensitive Skin:
Hormonal changes in the skin can also make it more sensitive and prone to inflammatory conditions like acne, eczema, or rosacea. That or pregnancy can make these conditions worse if they existed before you got pregnant. Its light texture makes it a good moisturizer for oily and acne-prone skin without the risk of clogged pores while reducing redness.
Antioxidant Properties:
In addition, squalane being rich with antioxidants means it protects the skin from free radical damage and improves skin elasticity.
Strengthens The Skin Barrier
Sebum is essential for skin health, forming a protective barrier that retains moisture and shields against harmful bacteria. It contains 13% squalene/squalane, crucial for maintaining skin barrier integrity. Using squalane helps replenish these natural reserves during pregnancy, reinforcing the skin’s barrier. This results in softer, more supple, and resilient skin, effectively countering the effects of hormonal fluctuations. Squalane’s role in enhancing skin health is especially valuable during this sensitive time.
What Should You Consider When Using Squalane During Pregnancy?
While squalane is mostly safe for pregnant women, it is important to pay attention to how the oil was sourced, or what is in the squalane-based product of your choice to avoid possible irritation. Here are 3 things to look out for:
Look out for additional fragrances, preservatives, or dyes possibly added. These are common allergens that could trigger allergies.
If blended with other oils, make sure these are non-comedogenic especially if you have oily/acne-prone skin.
Ethically sourced squalane comes from plants like olive oil, sugar cane, etc. If a manufacturer indicates an animal source like shark liver or fish purchasing from them can harm our planet.
Do not forget to check with your dermatologist for product recommendations and an evaluation that squalane is the right option for you as a soon-to-be mom.
How Does Squalane Fit Into A Pregnancy Skincare Routine?
Now that you know all about the safety and benefits of squalane during pregnancy here are a few tips on how to include squalane in your routine for the best results:
Wash your face with a gentle hydrating cleanser
Apply your toner/essence/ampoule next.
Follow with your squalane-based serum/moisturizer or 100% squalane oil to seal the moisture in your skin.
Here are equally my favourite ways to use squalane oil during your pregnancy:
Either apply 2–3 drops after your moisturizer or add the drops to your moisturizer for more moisture retention.
At night layer a few drops instead of your moisturizer on parts of your skin that tend to be dry as a sleeping mask.
To help with itchy stretch marks apply a few drops on your belly and rub 2-3x a day.
For dull hair during pregnancy apply a few drops of squalane to your hair and scalp for more shine and hydration.
Do not forget that squalane-based products (except if formulated with exfoliants or retinol) can be used morning and night.
Does Squalane Help Prevent Stretch Marks During Pregnancy?
While no study indicates that squalane can prevent the appearance of stretch marks, its emollient properties can contribute to reducing the appearance of stretch marks during pregnancy.
By replenishing the skin’s natural reserves, applying squalane topically reinforces the skin’s barrier resulting in plumper, firmer, and less stretched skin. Other plant oils/butter like shea and cocoa butter are also commonly used during pregnancy for this purpose, however, squalane is even more hydrating, absorbs faster, and is less greasy than these oils/butter.
However, keep in mind that using squalane alone will not miraculously fade your stretch marks. What I can tell you is that, your skin will look and feel more hydrated after a couple of weeks of using squalane-based products.
Frequently Asked Questions About Squalane Pregnancy
Is The Ordinary Retinol 0.5 In Squalane Safe During Pregnancy?
The Ordinary Retinol 0.5% in Squalane is generally not recommended during pregnancy due to the potential risks associated with retinol, a form of vitamin A. Retinol and retinoids in general present a risk to fetal development when absorbed in high doses. For safety, it is best to consult with your doctor before considering retinol-based skincare products even if formulated with squalane.
Is The Biossance Squalane Vitamin C Dark Spot Serum Safe During Pregnancy?
The Biossance Squalane + Vitamin C Dark Spot Serum combines squalane, a pregnancy-safe moisturizer, with a stable form of Vitamin C (10% 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid), which is safe for brightening skin and reducing dark spots. However, as with any skincare product, it's always best to consult with your dermatologist to ensure it aligns with your specific needs during pregnancy.
Is Squalane Safe During Pregnancy?
Yes, squalane is considered safe for use during pregnancy. It’s a gentle, non-comedogenic oil that mimics the skin's natural oils, providing hydration without clogging pores or causing irritation. Squalane is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone skin, making it an ideal choice for pregnant women dealing with dryness or sensitivity. Always consult with your healthcare provider to ensure it fits your specific skincare needs during pregnancy.
What Are Some Benefits Of Squalane While Pregnant?
Squalane offers several benefits during pregnancy, including deep hydration, improved skin elasticity, and soothing of dryness and sensitivity. It's non-comedogenic, meaning it won’t clog pores, and is gentle enough for all skin types. Squalane helps address common pregnancy-related skin issues like stretch marks and dry skin while being safe and non-irritating. Its lightweight, fast-absorbing nature makes it an excellent choice for maintaining healthy, moisturized skin during pregnancy.
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