Squalane in Skincare: Unpacking the Science, Sources, and Sustainable Future of a Skincare Staple

Table of Contents

1. Key Highlights:
2. Introduction:
3. Squalene: The Unstable Precursor and its Natural Footprint
4. The Pivotal Role of Hydrogenation: Transforming Reactivity into Stability
5. Sugarcane: Cultivating a New Era of Sustainable Squalane
6. The Myriad Benefits of Squalane in Skincare
7. Integrating Squalane into Your Daily Skincare Regimen
8. The Horizon of Squalane: Innovation and Ethical Imperatives
9. FAQ:

Key Highlights:

• Squalane, a highly stable and effective emollient, is derived from squalene, a naturally occurring lipid found in plants, animals, and human sebum.
• The transformation from unstable squalene to stable squalane occurs through hydrogenation, a critical process that enhances its shelf-life and suitability for skincare.
• Sugarcane has emerged as a leading, sustainable, and ethical source for squalane production, offering a high-purity alternative to traditional sources like shark liver oil and even olive oil.

Introduction:

The quest for hydrated, supple skin often leads consumers and formulators alike to explore a myriad of ingredients, each promising unique benefits. Among the most revered and ubiquitous components in modern skincare formulations is squalane, celebrated for its exceptional emollient properties and ability to mimic the skin's natural lipids. This remarkable ingredient, however, has a fascinating journey from its origin as an unstable precursor to its highly effective, stable form. Understanding squalane requires a look at squalene, its naturally occurring counterpart, and the critical chemical transformation that renders it suitable for cosmetic application. The narrative of squalane also reflects a broader shift in the beauty industry towards sustainability and ethical sourcing, with significant advancements in its production methods, particularly from renewable plant sources. This exploration delves into the scientific distinctions between squalene and squalane, examines the diverse natural origins of squalene, and highlights the pivotal role of hydrogenation in creating the stable ingredient we recognize today. Furthermore, it spotlights the rise of sugarcane as a preferred, eco-conscious source, charting the path for the future of responsible skincare ingredient development.

Squalene: The Unstable Precursor and its Natural Footprint

Squalane's story begins with squalene, a lipid integral to the natural world and our own biology. This polyunsaturated hydrocarbon is a vital component of the skin's natural moisture barrier, contributing significantly to its hydration and protective functions. In humans, squalene constitutes approximately 12% of sebum, the oily, waxy substance produced by the sebaceous glands, playing a crucial role in maintaining skin hydration and elasticity. Its presence helps to lubricate the skin, making it soft and smooth, and provides a degree of antioxidant protection.

Despite its natural prevalence and biological importance, squalene possesses an inherent instability that makes it unsuitable for direct inclusion in most skincare products. Its molecular structure contains multiple double bonds, which are highly susceptible to oxidation when exposed to air and sunlight. This rapid oxidation leads to the formation of reactive oxygen species and other undesirable byproducts, which can be irritating to the skin and, importantly, comedogenic—meaning they can clog pores and potentially contribute to acne breakouts. This chemical vulnerability is the primary reason for the transformation of squalene into its more stable derivative, squalane, for cosmetic applications.

The natural sources of squalene are diverse, each with its own historical context, ethical implications, and environmental footprint. Historically, and for many years, the most significant commercial source of squalene was the liver oil of deep-sea sharks. Sharks, particularly those inhabiting oxygen-poor deep waters, possess livers rich in squalene, which aids in their buoyancy. This source, while abundant in squalene, came with profound ethical and environmental costs. The widespread harvesting of sharks for their liver oil led to severe concerns about overfishing and the depletion of vulnerable shark populations. Many shark species are slow to reproduce and mature, making them particularly susceptible to overexploitation. As environmental awareness grew and conservation efforts gained momentum, the use of shark-derived squalene faced intense scrutiny and widespread condemnation from conservation organizations and increasingly conscious consumers. Consequently, a significant portion of the skincare industry has moved away from this source, with many reputable brands proudly declaring their products to be shark-squalene-free, reflecting a commitment to ethical sourcing and marine conservation.

In response to the ethical challenges posed by shark-derived squalene, the industry turned its attention to plant-based alternatives. Olive oil emerged as a prominent and readily available plant source. Olive oil, a staple in Mediterranean diets and a widely cultivated crop, contains varying amounts of squalene, typically ranging from 0.2% to 0.8%, though some extra virgin olive oils can contain higher concentrations. The extraction of squalene from olive oil involves various refining processes, often leveraging the byproducts of olive oil production, which can contribute to its sustainability profile. While olive-derived squalene offered a more ethical alternative to shark liver oil, its environmental impact is not entirely without consideration. Large-scale olive farming can be water-intensive, and agricultural practices, including the use of pesticides and fertilizers, can have localized environmental effects. Furthermore, the yield of squalene from olive oil can be lower compared to other sources, potentially requiring larger quantities of raw material for significant production. Despite these considerations, olive-derived squalene remains a widely used and accepted plant-based source in the cosmetic industry.

Beyond olive oil, other plant oils also contain smaller quantities of squalene. Amaranth seed oil is notable for its relatively high squalene content, ranging from 5% to 8%, making it an attractive botanical source, though its cultivation and processing scale differ from that of olives. Rice bran oil and wheat germ oil also contain trace amounts of squalene. While these sources offer additional plant-based options, their lower yields of squalene often make them less commercially viable for large-scale squalane production compared to more concentrated sources or those with more efficient extraction methods.

The ongoing search for increasingly sustainable and efficient sources led to a significant breakthrough with the development of squalene derived from sugarcane. This innovative method, often involving the fermentation of sugarcane, bypasses many of the environmental and ethical concerns associated with older sources. Sugarcane is a rapidly renewable crop that can be cultivated on a large scale, and the fermentation process offers a controlled and efficient means of producing high-purity squalene. This approach represents a paradigm shift, aligning with the growing consumer demand for transparent, ethically produced, and environmentally responsible ingredients. The development of sugarcane-derived squalane signifies not just an alternative source, but a strategic move towards a more sustainable future for the cosmetic industry.

The Pivotal Role of Hydrogenation: Transforming Reactivity into Stability

The transformation of squalene into squalane is a chemical engineering marvel, a process known as hydrogenation. This critical step is the linchpin that turns an inherently unstable, oxidation-prone lipid into a remarkably stable, inert, and highly beneficial emollient for skincare. Without hydrogenation, squalene's reactivity would severely limit its utility and shelf-life in cosmetic formulations, potentially leading to product degradation and skin irritation.

Hydrogenation is a chemical reaction that involves the addition of hydrogen atoms to an unsaturated compound. In the context of squalene, its molecular structure features several double bonds, making it "unsaturated" and highly reactive. These double bonds are the points of vulnerability where oxygen can readily attach, leading to the process of oxidation. During hydrogenation, squalene oil is exposed to hydrogen gas under specific conditions, typically in the presence of a catalyst. Common catalysts used in this process include transition metals like nickel or palladium. These catalysts facilitate the reaction by providing a surface for the hydrogen atoms to interact with the squalene molecules, ensuring that the hydrogen atoms are added across the double bonds.

The result of this meticulously controlled chemical process is the conversion of polyunsaturated squalene into saturated squalane. Each double bond in the squalene molecule is broken, and two hydrogen atoms are added, effectively "saturating" the molecule. This saturation eliminates the reactive double bonds, rendering squalane significantly more stable. The molecular change is profound: while squalene is a polyunsaturated hydrocarbon, squalane becomes a fully saturated hydrocarbon, lacking any double bonds. This structural difference is fundamental to its vastly superior stability.

The necessity of hydrogenation for squalane's application in skincare cannot be overstated. Its purpose extends beyond mere stabilization; it directly influences the efficacy, safety, and longevity of skincare products.

First and foremost, hydrogenation makes squalane remarkably resistant to oxidation. Unlike squalene, which rapidly oxidizes upon exposure to air and light, squalane remains stable, preserving its beneficial properties over extended periods. This resistance to oxidation is crucial for preventing the formation of comedogenic byproducts that could clog pores and contribute to breakouts, a significant concern, especially for individuals with acne-prone skin. This inherent stability also means that products containing squalane maintain their integrity and effectiveness for much longer, ensuring that consumers receive the full benefit of the ingredient throughout the product's shelf life.

Secondly, the saturation of squalene into squalane significantly extends its shelf life. Cosmetic products often sit on shelves for months, if not years, before reaching the consumer and then remain in use for several more months. An unstable ingredient would degrade quickly, leading to diminished performance, changes in texture or odor, and potential irritation. Squalane's extended shelf life is a major advantage for formulators and consumers alike, ensuring product reliability and reducing waste.

Finally, and perhaps most importantly for the consumer, squalane's stability and inert nature make it exceptionally suitable for a wide range of skincare applications. Its non-comedogenic and non-irritating properties mean it can be incorporated into formulations for virtually all skin types, including sensitive, dry, oily, and acne-prone skin. Its lightweight, non-greasy texture, coupled with its ability to deeply moisturize and enhance skin barrier function, makes it a versatile ingredient in everything from serums and moisturizers to cleansers and body oils. The hydrogenation process transforms squalene from a biological lipid with limited shelf appeal into a universally beloved cosmetic ingredient, a testament to the ingenuity of chemical engineering in harnessing natural compounds for human benefit.

Sugarcane: Cultivating a New Era of Sustainable Squalane

The beauty industry's increasing focus on sustainability and ethical sourcing has propelled sugarcane-derived squalane to the forefront as a preferred option. This shift reflects not only a growing environmental consciousness among consumers and brands but also a technological advancement that allows for the efficient and responsible production of high-quality squalane.

Sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum) is a highly efficient crop, known for its rapid growth and ability to thrive in various climates. Its cultivation for squalane production typically leverages existing agricultural infrastructures, often in regions where sugarcane is already a primary crop. The process usually involves the fermentation of sugarcane, which yields farnesene, a precursor molecule that can then be converted into squalene and subsequently hydrogenated into squalane. This biotechnological approach offers a departure from direct extraction from plant oils or animal sources, presenting several distinct advantages.

One of the most compelling benefits of sugarcane-derived squalane is its sustainability. Sugarcane is a renewable resource, unlike finite animal sources. Its cultivation can be managed to minimize environmental impact, for instance, through responsible water management and land use practices. Furthermore, the fermentation process itself is often optimized for energy efficiency and reduced waste, aligning with green chemistry principles. This method drastically reduces the carbon footprint associated with ingredient production compared to the resource-intensive and often environmentally taxing methods of extracting from deep-sea shark liver oil or even certain agricultural practices associated with olive oil.

Beyond environmental sustainability, sugarcane-derived squalane offers clear ethical advantages. It completely bypasses the ethical concerns associated with animal-derived ingredients, particularly the controversial practice of harvesting shark liver oil. For brands committed to cruelty-free and vegan formulations, sugarcane-derived squalane provides a reliable and ethical alternative that resonates strongly with a growing segment of the consumer market. This aligns with a broader industry trend towards transparency and responsible sourcing, allowing brands to confidently communicate the origins of their ingredients to a discerning clientele.

The production process for sugarcane-derived squalane also boasts the potential for high purity. The controlled fermentation and subsequent hydrogenation steps allow for the creation of squalane with consistent quality and minimal impurities. This high purity translates to a superior ingredient for skincare formulations, reducing the likelihood of adverse reactions and ensuring consistent performance. The absence of unwanted plant compounds, which might be present in squalene directly extracted from complex plant oils, also contributes to a cleaner, more inert final product.

Furthermore, the environmental footprint of sugarcane farming and processing, when conducted responsibly, is generally lower than that of other traditional squalene sources. While large-scale agriculture always presents environmental considerations, sugarcane cultivation can be managed with practices that promote biodiversity, conserve soil health, and minimize water usage, especially when compared to the highly impactful and often destructive nature of deep-sea trawling for sharks. The integrated approach of utilizing sugarcane for various products, including sugar, ethanol, and now squalane, further enhances its resource efficiency and reduces overall waste.

Sugarcane-derived squalane represents a significant step forward in the quest for sustainable beauty. As consumers become increasingly informed and demand greater transparency and ethical responsibility from the brands they support, the demand for ingredients like sugarcane-derived squalane will only continue to accelerate. This innovative source not only delivers an effective skincare ingredient but also embodies a commitment to environmental stewardship and ethical production, signaling a promising future for the cosmetic industry where efficacy and responsibility go hand in hand. The continuous investment in research and development in this area promises even more efficient and eco-friendly production methods, solidifying sugarcane's position as a cornerstone of sustainable squalane production.

The Myriad Benefits of Squalane in Skincare

Squalane's journey from a reactive lipid to a stable, versatile ingredient culminates in its impressive array of benefits for skin health. Its molecular structure closely resembles that of the skin's natural lipids, making it highly biocompatible and readily absorbed without leaving a heavy, greasy residue. This unique affinity with the skin's natural biology allows squalane to integrate seamlessly into the skin's protective barrier, bolstering its integrity and function.

As an emollient, squalane excels at softening and smoothing the skin's surface. It fills in the microscopic gaps between skin cells, creating a smoother, more resilient texture. This action not only improves the tactile feel of the skin but also enhances its visual appearance, imparting a healthy, natural glow. For individuals dealing with rough or flaky patches, squalane provides immediate and noticeable relief, restoring suppleness without feeling occlusive or sticky.

Beyond its emollient properties, squalane is a potent hydrator, working primarily by preventing transepidermal water loss (TEWL). It forms a breathable, protective film on the skin's surface, acting as an invisible shield that locks in moisture. This mechanism is crucial for maintaining optimal skin hydration, which is essential for overall skin health, elasticity, and resilience. Unlike heavier occlusives that can feel suffocating, squalane's lightweight nature allows the skin to breathe, making it comfortable even for those with oily or combination skin types. This ability to prevent moisture evaporation without clogging pores distinguishes it from many other hydrating oils.

Its non-comedogenic classification is a significant advantage, particularly for individuals prone to acne or breakouts. Squalane's molecular structure ensures it does not block pores, allowing the skin to regulate its natural oil production effectively. This makes it an ideal moisturizer for oily and acne-prone skin, providing necessary hydration without exacerbating existing conditions. Many traditional oils can trigger breakouts, but squalane offers a safe and effective alternative, helping to balance the skin's moisture levels, which can, in turn, reduce excessive sebum production often linked to dehydration.

Squalane also possesses antioxidant properties, offering a degree of protection against environmental aggressors. While not a primary antioxidant powerhouse like Vitamin C or E, its stability and ability to integrate into the lipid barrier can help fortify the skin's natural defenses against oxidative stress caused by pollution and UV radiation. This supportive role contributes to overall skin health and can help mitigate the visible signs of premature aging.

The lightweight and non-irritating nature of squalane makes it universally suitable for all skin types, from the most sensitive to the most resilient. It is often recommended for sensitive skin due to its low potential for irritation and its ability to soothe and protect a compromised skin barrier. For dry skin, it provides intense, long-lasting moisture. For mature skin, it helps to restore lost lipids, improving elasticity and reducing the appearance of fine lines. Its versatility means it can be seamlessly integrated into various skincare routines and layered with other active ingredients without conflict.

Furthermore, squalane's role as an excellent carrier oil enhances the efficacy of other active ingredients. Its ability to penetrate the skin easily allows it to help deliver other beneficial compounds more effectively into the deeper layers of the epidermis, maximizing their performance. This synergy makes it a valuable component in complex serum and treatment formulations. The benefits of squalane extend beyond simple hydration; they encompass barrier repair, antioxidant support, texture refinement, and compatibility across the spectrum of skin needs, solidifying its status as a foundational ingredient in modern skincare.

Integrating Squalane into Your Daily Skincare Regimen

Incorporating squalane into a daily skincare routine is straightforward, given its versatility and compatibility with other ingredients. Its lightweight, non-greasy texture means it can be used at various stages of a routine, adapting to individual skin needs and preferences.

The most common way to use pure squalane oil is as a facial oil. After cleansing and toning, and before applying a heavier moisturizer, a few drops of squalane can be gently massaged onto the face and neck. Its rapid absorption ensures it does not leave a heavy residue, making it comfortable even under makeup. For those who prefer a simpler routine, squalane can sometimes act as a standalone moisturizer, especially for oily or combination skin types that do not require intense emollience. Its ability to provide sufficient hydration without feeling heavy or occlusive makes it an ideal choice for maintaining skin balance without contributing to excess shine.

Squalane is also a popular ingredient in various formulated skincare products, including moisturizers, serums, and cleansers. Many reputable brands formulate moisturizers with squalane to enhance their hydrating and emollient properties. When present in a serum, it often functions as a delivery system for other active ingredients, leveraging its penetration-enhancing capabilities. Cleansers containing squalane can offer a gentler, more hydrating cleanse, helping to preserve the skin's natural moisture barrier rather than stripping it away. Checking the ingredient list for "squalane" is key when selecting such products.

For individuals with particularly dry or dehydrated skin, squalane can be layered. It can be applied as a hydrating serum before a richer cream, providing an additional layer of moisture and barrier support. Its non-comedogenic nature ensures that this layering does not lead to clogged pores, a common concern with heavier formulations.

Beyond the face, squalane is equally beneficial for other parts of the body. It can be applied to dry patches on elbows, knees, or hands, or even used as a cuticle oil. Its ability to soften and smooth makes it an excellent all-over body moisturizer, particularly after showering when skin is most receptive to hydration. Some also find it useful for taming frizz and adding shine to hair, applying a small amount to the ends or through the mid-lengths.

When selecting a squalane product, prioritizing source transparency is crucial. Consumers should look for products that explicitly state the origin of their squalane, with "sugarcane-derived squalane" or "plant-derived squalane" being preferable indicators of ethical and sustainable sourcing. Opting for pure squalane or formulations with minimal additives, fragrances, or dyes can minimize the risk of irritation, particularly for those with sensitive skin. While squalane is renowned for its stability, proper storage in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight is always advisable to maintain its integrity over time. Its adaptability and broad benefits make squalane a valuable addition to nearly any skincare regimen, offering a simple yet effective way to enhance skin hydration, softness, and overall health.

The Horizon of Squalane: Innovation and Ethical Imperatives

The trajectory of squalane in the skincare industry is closely tied to evolving consumer demands for transparency, sustainability, and ethical practices. While sugarcane-derived squalane currently leads as the most environmentally conscious option, continuous innovation in biotechnology and ingredient sourcing promises further advancements and diversification. The future of squalane production is likely to be characterized by even greater efficiency, lower environmental impact, and a reinforced commitment to responsible sourcing.

One area of ongoing research focuses on optimizing the fermentation processes for squalene production. Biotechnological advancements could lead to higher yields from existing renewable feedstocks, reducing the amount of raw material required. This could involve exploring different microbial strains for fermentation or refining the conditions under which these processes occur, leading to more energy-efficient and cost-effective production methods. Such innovations would further solidify plant-derived squalane's position as the industry standard, making it accessible to a broader range of brands and price points.

Beyond sugarcane, researchers are also investigating other novel, non-traditional sources of squalene. This could include exploring underutilized plant biomass or developing synthetic biology approaches that can create squalene in laboratory settings with minimal environmental impact. The goal is to identify new feedstocks that are not in competition with food crops and that can be cultivated or produced with an even smaller ecological footprint. This diversification of sources would provide greater supply chain resilience and further opportunities for sustainable development.

The ethical imperative driving the shift away from shark-derived squalene will undoubtedly continue to shape the industry. Consumer awareness regarding animal welfare and marine conservation is stronger than ever. Brands that prioritize ethical sourcing and clearly communicate their commitment to cruelty-free practices will continue to gain market share. The presence of plant-derived squalane in a product signals a brand's dedication to these values, becoming a mark of trust and quality for conscious consumers. This aligns with a broader trend towards vegan and plant-based formulations across the entire beauty sector.

Furthermore, the demand for transparent supply chains will grow. Consumers are not only interested in what an ingredient is but also where it comes from and how it is produced. Brands that can provide detailed information about their squalane's origin, from the farm or bioreactor to the finished product, will build stronger relationships with their clientele. This transparency often involves certifications (e.g., COSMOS, Ecocert, Vegan Society) that validate sustainable and ethical claims, providing an external assurance of responsible practices.

As climate change concerns intensify, the environmental footprint of ingredient manufacturing will face increased scrutiny. Squalane production, particularly from sugarcane, offers a model for how the industry can transition towards more sustainable practices. Continued efforts to reduce water usage, minimize waste, and lower energy consumption throughout the production lifecycle will be paramount. This includes exploring closed-loop systems, utilizing renewable energy sources, and minimizing chemical inputs during extraction and hydrogenation.

Ultimately, the future of squalane is bright, poised at the intersection of scientific innovation and ethical responsibility. Its proven efficacy as a skincare ingredient, combined with the industry's commitment to sustainable sourcing, positions it as a cornerstone ingredient for the next generation of beauty products. The continuous evolution in its production methods reflects a broader, positive transformation within the cosmetic industry towards a more conscious and planet-friendly approach.

FAQ:

1. Is squalane the same as squalene? No, they are distinct. Squalene is a naturally occurring, unstable polyunsaturated oil found in plants, animals, and human sebum. Squalane is the stable, saturated form of squalene, produced through a process called hydrogenation. The hydrogenation removes the double bonds in squalene, making squalane much less prone to oxidation and giving it a longer shelf life, making it suitable for skincare formulations.

2. What are the primary benefits of using squalane on my skin? Squalane offers numerous benefits due to its similarity to the skin's natural oils. It acts as an excellent emollient, softening and smoothing the skin's texture. It deeply hydrates by preventing moisture loss (transepidermal water loss), helping to maintain a healthy skin barrier. Squalane is also non-comedogenic, meaning it won't clog pores, making it suitable for all skin types, including oily and acne-prone skin. It can help improve skin suppleness and resilience, and it possesses mild antioxidant properties.

3. Is squalane suitable for all skin types? Yes, squalane is remarkably versatile and generally considered beneficial for all skin types. Its lightweight, non-greasy texture makes it excellent for oily and combination skin, as it provides hydration without heaviness. For dry or dehydrated skin, it offers deep, lasting moisture and helps repair a compromised barrier. Even sensitive skin types typically tolerate squalane well due to its non-irritating and non-comedogenic nature.

4. How should I incorporate squalane into my skincare routine? Squalane can be applied directly to the skin as a facial oil. Typically, a few drops are massaged onto cleansed and toned skin, before a heavier moisturizer, if desired. It can also be found as an ingredient in various skincare products like moisturizers, serums, and cleansers. For body care, it can be applied to dry areas like elbows, knees, or cuticles. Some even use a tiny amount to add shine and tame frizz in hair.

5. Can squalane help with acne or breakouts? While squalane is not an active acne treatment, its non-comedogenic properties make it an excellent moisturizer for acne-prone skin. By providing essential hydration without clogging pores, it can help to balance oil production and prevent the dehydration that sometimes leads to increased sebum. Keeping the skin adequately moisturized and its barrier intact can reduce inflammation and improve the overall condition of acne-prone skin.

6. Is sugarcane-derived squalane superior to olive-derived squalane? From a skincare benefit perspective, both sugarcane and olive-derived squalane offer similar emollient and hydrating properties, as they are chemically identical once hydrogenated into squalane. The key difference lies in their sustainability and ethical profiles. Sugarcane-derived squalane is often considered more sustainable and ethical due to sugarcane being a rapidly renewable resource and its production methods potentially having a lower environmental footprint compared to large-scale olive cultivation, which can be water-intensive. The choice often comes down to personal values regarding sourcing and environmental impact.

7. What should I look for when purchasing squalane products? When buying squalane, prioritize products that clearly state the source of the squalane (e.g., "sugarcane-derived squalane" or "plant-derived squalane"). This ensures ethical and sustainable sourcing. Additionally, look for pure squalane or formulations with minimal added ingredients, especially avoiding unnecessary fragrances, dyes, or known irritants, to maximize efficacy and minimize the risk of adverse reactions.

8. How long does squalane typically last once opened? Due to its high stability, squalane has a significantly longer shelf life compared to its precursor, squalene. When stored properly in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures, a bottle of pure squalane can typically last for 1 to 2 years, sometimes even longer. Always check the product's specific expiration date or period-after-opening (PAO) symbol on the packaging.

9. Can squalane entirely replace my traditional moisturizer? For some skin types, particularly oily or combination skin, squalane can function as a standalone moisturizer due to its hydrating and emollient properties. However, individuals with very dry or severely dehydrated skin may find that squalane provides insufficient moisture on its own and may benefit from using it in conjunction with a heavier cream or moisturizer to provide additional occlusive benefits and a more comprehensive moisture lock. It's often best integrated as a hydrating serum layer before a richer cream.

10. Are there any known side effects or precautions with using squalane? Squalane is widely recognized as a very safe and well-tolerated ingredient. Allergic reactions or irritation are exceedingly rare due to its biocompatibility with human skin. However, as with any new skincare product, a patch test is always recommended, especially for individuals with extremely sensitive skin, before applying it to a larger area. If any adverse reaction occurs, discontinue use immediately.