What Is Squalane?

Squalane (C₃₀H₆₂) represents a unique category in cosmetic ingredients as it is technically not an oil at all—it's a fully saturated, branched-chain hydrocarbon that contains no fatty acids or glycerol (the defining components of traditional oils). This fundamental structural difference positions squalane as a biomimetic emollient that perfectly replicates human sebum components, offering exceptional skin compatibility and premium positioning.

Our squalane is olive-derived, extracted from the unsaponifiable fraction of olive oil (0.5-1.1%), making it a sustainable co-product of the food industry. It's COSMOS approved, solvent-free, and represents the premium, natural alternative to synthetic or shark-derived squalane.

Unique Chemistry: Not a Fatty Acid Oil

Unlike traditional carrier oils (which are triglycerides composed of glycerol + fatty acids), squalane is a simple hydrocarbon chain consisting only of carbon and hydrogen atoms:

Why This Matters for Your Skin: Because squalane contains no fatty acids and is 100% saturated, it cannot go rancid through fatty acid oxidation. This exceptional stability means it maintains its benefits indefinitely and can even extend the shelf life of products containing it.

From Squalene to Squalane: The Hydrogenation Advantage

Squalene (with an "e") naturally comprises ~12% of human sebum. Squalane (with an "a") is the hydrogenated, fully saturated, and supremely stable version that delivers all benefits without oxidation risk.

Chemical Transformation

• Starting Material: Squalene (C₃₀H₅₀) - 6 double bonds (highly reactive)
• Hydrogenation: Adds 12 hydrogen atoms to saturate double bonds
• Final Product: Squalane (C₃₀H₆₂) - 0 double bonds (chemically inert)

Stability Benefits

• Oxidation Resistant: No double bonds = no oxidation sites = no rancidity
• Extended Shelf Life: 18+ months minimum, often 5+ years when properly stored
• No Antioxidants Required: Doesn't need added preservatives or stabilizers
• Heat Stable: Maintains integrity at elevated temperatures
• Light Stable: Not prone to photo-degradation
• No Peroxide Formation: Cannot form harmful squalene peroxides

Biomimetic Excellence: Nature's Perfect Moisturizer

Bio-Identical Structure

Comparison showing how olive-derived squalane mimics natural human sebum component for biomimetic skin compatibility and moisture balance

Squalane mimics a natural sebum component, making it instantly recognized and accepted by skin. This biomimetic structure provides:

• Rapid Absorption: Penetrates quickly without greasy residue
• Lightweight Feel: Low viscosity, silky texture despite being 100% saturated
• Non-Comedogenic (Rating: 0): Will not clog pores despite oily nature
• Universal Compatibility: Suitable for all skin types—dry, oily, sensitive, acne-prone, mature

Triple-Action Moisturization

• Emollient: Softens and smooths skin surface
• Humectant Properties: Helps attract moisture to skin
• Occlusive Benefits: Prevents transepidermal water loss (TEWL) without heaviness

Skin Benefits: What Squalane Does

Barrier Support & Repair

Squalane reinforces skin's natural lipid barrier, reduces TEWL, maintains optimal hydration, and helps repair compromised barrier function. It's naturally present in healthy skin sebum composition, making it ideal for barrier-compromised skin.

Anti-Aging Benefits

• Collagen Production: Regular use boosts collagen synthesis
• Firmness & Elasticity: Helps maintain skin structure and resilience
• Fine Line Reduction: Improves appearance of wrinkles and fine lines
• Hydration Plumping: Well-hydrated skin appears more youthful and radiant

Anti-Inflammatory Action

Squalane is highly effective for inflammatory skin conditions:

• Reduces redness, irritation, and inflammatory responses
• Effective for inflammatory acne, eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis, rosacea
• Calms sensitive, reactive skin
• Supports skin healing and repair processes

Sebum Regulation

Squalane balances natural oil production rather than overwhelming skin:

• Helps oily skin reduce excess sebum production
• Provides moisture without triggering overproduction
• Ideal for acne-prone skin that needs hydration without clogging

Skin Protection

• UV Damage Defense: Helps counteract UVA-induced cell damage
• Post-Sun Repair: Supports skin recovery after sun exposure
• Environmental Protection: Shields skin from pollution, smoke, environmental stressors
• Antibacterial Properties: Helps fight acne-causing bacteria

Best For These Skin Types & Concerns

How to Use Squalane

Application Instructions

1. Cleanse skin thoroughly
2. Apply water-based serums (if using)
3. Dispense 2-4 drops of squalane into palm
4. Warm between hands and press gently into face and neck
5. Follow with moisturizer (optional) or use as final step

Layering Tips

• Morning: Apply before sunscreen for added protection and hydration
• Evening: Use as final step for overnight barrier repair
• For acne-prone skin: Use alone or with lightweight serums—won't clog pores
• For mature skin: Mix with retinol or peptides for enhanced anti-aging
• Body use: Excellent for dry patches, eczema, and all-over hydration
• Enhancer: Boosts penetration of other active ingredients

Hair & Scalp Benefits

Squalane is exceptional for hair care:

• Conditions without build-up
• Adds shine and reduces breakage
• Increases heat protection for styled/color-treated hair
• Lightweight, non-greasy finish

Texture & Sensory Profile

Feel: Lightweight, silky, non-greasy
Absorption: Fast, complete absorption without residue
Color: Clear, colorless
Scent: Odorless
Stability: Exceptionally stable, 18+ months (often 5+ years)

Exceptional Performance Characteristics

• Can be labeled "oil-free" despite being an oily liquid (pure hydrocarbon, not triglyceride)
• Does not contribute to fatty acid profiles in formulations
• Cannot go rancid through fatty acid oxidation
• No saponification value (0) - not true "oil" chemically
• Exceptional shelf stability (18+ months, even 5+ years)
• Enhances penetration of other active ingredients
• Luxury sensory experience - lightweight, fast-absorbing, non-greasy

Olive-Derived Squalane: Premium & Sustainable

Our squalane is extracted from the unsaponifiable fraction of olive oil (~0.5-1.1%), making it:

• Sustainable: Co-product of food industry (byproduct utilization)
• Natural: No GMOs, no synthetic fermentation
• Clean: COSMOS approved, solvent-free options available
• Ethical: Plant-based alternative to shark-derived squalane
• Premium: Commands luxury positioning in skincare market

Storage & Shelf Life

Shelf Life: 18+ months minimum, often 5+ years
Storage: Room temperature, no special requirements
Stability: Exceptionally stable—no oxidation, no rancidity, no degradation
Quality: Natural gamma-tocopherol from olive source provides additional stability

Products Featuring Squalane

Experience the biomimetic power of olive-derived squalane in our carefully formulated products:

Facial Care

• Radiant Renewal Facial Oil - Bakuchiol & Berry Seed Oils — Anti-aging facial oil with squalane for biomimetic hydration
• Luna Luxe Night Facial Oil - Fragrance-Free Bakuchiol Blend — Luxury night treatment with squalane for overnight barrier repair
• Botanical Facial Skincare Set - Cleanse, Brighten, Restore — Complete facial care featuring squalane

Beard & Hair Care

• Conditioning Beard Balm - Styling Hold & Deep Nourishment — Styling balm with squalane for lightweight conditioning
• Complete Beard Care Gift Set - Premium Oil & Conditioning Balm — Full beard care featuring squalane

Frequently Asked Questions

Can squalane clog pores?

No. With a comedogenic rating of 0, squalane is completely non-comedogenic and safe for all skin types, including the most acne-prone skin. Its biomimetic structure is recognized by skin as a natural sebum component.

Is squalane the same as squalene?

No. Squalene (with an "e") is the unsaturated form with 6 double bonds that naturally occurs in human sebum but oxidizes easily. Squalane (with an "a") is the hydrogenated, fully saturated version that's exceptionally stable and won't oxidize or go rancid.

Is squalane an oil?

Technically, no. Squalane is a pure hydrocarbon (C₃₀H₆₂) with no fatty acids or glycerol, so it's not a triglyceride oil. However, it has an oily texture and functions as a luxurious emollient. Products can even be labeled "oil-free" while containing squalane.

Can I use squalane if I have oily skin?

Absolutely! Squalane is ideal for oily skin because it mimics natural sebum, helping to balance oil production. It provides essential moisture without triggering excess sebum or clogging pores.

Does squalane help with anti-aging?

Yes. Squalane boosts collagen production, improves firmness and elasticity, reduces fine lines, and provides deep hydration that plumps skin for a more youthful appearance.

What's the difference between olive-derived and shark-derived squalane?

Chemically, they're identical (C₃₀H₆₂). However, olive-derived squalane is sustainable, ethical, plant-based, and COSMOS approved. It's extracted from the unsaponifiable fraction of olive oil as a co-product of the food industry, making it the premium, clean beauty choice.

Related Ingredients

Explore other lightweight, non-comedogenic ingredients in our collection:

• Jojoba Oil — Sebum-balancing liquid wax
• Rosehip Oil — Regenerative and scar-healing
• Argan Oil — Premium anti-aging liquid gold
• Sea Buckthorn Oil — Brightening and healing

← Back to Complete Carrier Oil Guide

"This information is for educational purposes. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. Our products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease."