| Niacinamide | Squalane | |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Key active | Support / formulation |
| What it is | Cell-communicating / barrier-repair active | Emollient / occlusive moisturizer |
| Flags | Fungal-acne safe · Comedogenic 0/5 | Fungal-acne safe · Comedogenic 1/5 |
Niacinamide (vitamin B3) is a water-soluble active that supports the skin barrier, regulates sebum, brightens hyperpigmentation, and reduces inflammation. It is widely tolerated across skin types and used in concentrations commonly ranging from 2% to 10%.
Squalane is a saturated, stable hydrocarbon derived from squalene (sourced from plants like olives or sugarcane, or shark liver) used as a lightweight emollient that softens skin and reinforces the skin barrier by reducing transepidermal water loss. It is well tolerated, non-comedogenic for most users, and serves as a base or carrier ingredient rather than a therapeutic active.
General educational information for Indian skin, compiled from published dermatology literature and structured ingredient data. Not medical advice or a diagnosis.