Squalane

Also known as: Olive squalane, sugarcane squalane

What Is Squalane?

Skin produces a lipid called squalene as part of its natural sebum. On its own, squalene oxidizes quickly when exposed to air and light, which makes it hard to use in products. Squalane, spelled with an a, is the hydrogenated form: the same backbone with the unstable double bonds removed. The result is a clear, odorless oil that stays fresh for a long time and feels silky rather than slick.

Squalane was historically sourced from shark liver, but most cosmetic squalane today is plant-derived, typically from olives or fermented sugarcane. As an emollient, it fills in the tiny gaps between surface skin cells and slows water loss. It does not attract water the way glycerin or hyaluronic acid does, so it works best as a layer that locks in hydration rather than as a source of it.

Because it is light and has a reputation for being non-comedogenic, squalane is often a good first facial oil for combination skin and even oily skin that feels dehydrated.

Squalane Benefits for Skin

• Softens and smooths rough or flaky patches.
• Helps slow water loss from the skin surface.
• Absorbs quickly with a non-greasy finish.
• Very stable, so it does not go rancid quickly like many plant oils.
• Can be mixed into a moisturizer or foundation for extra slip.

How to Use Squalane

Use two to four drops as a final step at night, or press it over your moisturizer on dry areas. It also works as a gentle first cleanse to loosen sunscreen and makeup, which fits well with double cleansing.

In the morning, keep the amount small so your sunscreen sets properly. For an easy boost, mix a drop of squalane into a ceramide cream on nights when skin feels especially tight.

Side Effects & Precautions

Squalane is one of the gentlest oils available and allergies are uncommon. If you are very acne-prone, introduce it slowly and watch for new congestion, since any oil-based product can behave differently on different skin. Learn to tell new clogs apart from adjustment in our guide to purging vs breakouts.

Pure squalane has no scent, so a product that smells strongly or feels sticky likely contains other oils or additives. Because it is so stable, a bottle usually lasts well, but keep it capped and away from heat. Squalane can loosen some long-wear makeup, so apply it sparingly under foundation. If you want more hydration rather than softness, add a humectant serum underneath instead of using more oil.