Description
Squalene is a unique oil that naturally occurs in skin and helps to stabilize the structure of skin. This unique fatty substance is structured as an isoprenoid, which is a fat-soluble antioxidant with a unique ability to anchor itself to cell membranes. Vitamin E, tocotrienols, Q10, mangosteen, and beta carotene are other examples of nutrients with primary isoprenoid structure. Many fruits and vegetables have small amounts of isoprenoids.
Squalene is naturally produced during cholesterol synthesis and is widely distributed in human tissues. Its major concentrations are in the skin and in the oils secreted by sebaceous glands, which provide a protective barrier to the skin surface. Squalene helps maintain skin moisture by lubricating the skin surface.