Squalane is a bit of an unsung hero ingredient in skincare, thanks to its ability to deeply hydrate, protect and soothe the skin. This naturally derived lipid is highly effective across a variety of skin types and has a huge fan base of professional and amateur beauty aficionados. In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of squalane for skin, the different types and the best way to add it into your routine.
What is Squalane?
This is a derivative of squalene, a lipid that our bodies naturally produce. Squalene is a component of sebum, the oily substance that helps lubricate and protect the skin (and hair). It plays a vital role in maintaining hydration and supporting the skin barrier. However, squalene’s production declines with age, which leads to drier skin and a weaker barrier over time. In its raw form, squalene is unstable and prone to oxidation. This makes it unsuitable for skincare and other commercial applications. For this reason, hydrogenation is used to convert squalene into squalane. This is a stable, non-oxidising version that retains all the skin benefits whilst allowing the production of effective, long-lasting squalane products.
Originally, the source of squalene was shark liver oil, which was highly abundant and valued for its emollient properties. In fact, it was widely used in traditional ointments and early cosmetic formulations because it mimics the skin’s natural oils. However, as awareness of sustainability and animal welfare grew, the beauty industry moved to plant-derived alternatives. Today, squalane is primarily sourced from sustainable plant-based materials such as sugarcane and olives. These sources provide an ethical alternative and also a purer, more stable and cost-effective product.
What Are the Benefits of Squalane?
Squalane is a popular skincare ingredient and you can find it in a wide array of products. The main benefits of squalane for skin include:
- Deep Hydration Without Heaviness: squalane is a highly effective moisturiser that absorbs quickly into the skin without leaving a greasy residue. Its lightweight texture makes it suitable for all skin types, including oily and acne-prone skin.
- Strengthens the Skin Barrier: your skin barrier is essential for keeping environmental aggressors out and moisture in. Squalane mimics the lipids found naturally in the skin, which helps repair and fortify the barrier. The result is improved resilience and long-lasting hydration.
- Calms Irritation and Redness: squalane has anti-inflammatory properties, which makes it ideal for soothing sensitive or reactive skin. It can help reduce redness and irritation caused by conditions such as eczema, rosacea or general sensitivity.
- Antioxidant Protection: another squalane benefit is that it helps combat oxidative stress caused by UV exposure, pollution and other environmental aggressors. This antioxidant action helps slow premature skin ageing and reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
- Non-Comedogenic and Balances Sebum: unlike heavier oils, squalane is non-comedogenic, meaning it won’t clog pores. It is ideal for oily and combination skin, as it hydrates while balancing excess oil production.
- Suitable for All Skin Types: whether your skin is dry, oily, sensitive or ageing, squalane works to address its needs. It’s lightweight enough for oily skin, yet hydrating enough for dry skin, which makes it a truly universal skincare hero.
Who Should Use Squalane?
As you can see from the last section, squalane’s benefits make it suitable for virtually everyone. Its varied effects mean that different skin types can benefit from squalane in different ways:
- Combination Skin: hydrates dry areas without overwhelming oily zones.
- Dry Skin: replenishes lost moisture and locks in hydration.
- Oily Skin: balances sebum production without clogging pores.
- Sensitive Skin: soothes irritation and reduces redness.
- Ageing Skin: provides antioxidant protection and supports skin elasticity.
How Do You Use Squalane in Your Routine?
Squalane’s versatility makes it easy to incorporate into any routine. Here are our top tips if you want to make the most of squalane’s skin benefits:
- Squalane Oil: apply a few drops of squalane as the last step in your evening routine to lock in hydration. Gently press it into your skin for maximum absorption.
- Boost Moisturisers: you can either use a moisturiser with squalane in it, or mix a drop or two of squalane oil into your regular moisturiser. This enhances the moisturiser’s hydrating properties (especially during colder months).
- Pair with Active Ingredients: it’s great to use squalane alongside actives like retinoids, vitamin C or exfoliating acids to buffer irritation and reduce dryness.
- For Body and Hair: squalane is a multi-purpose oil that you can use on other parts of the body (not just the face and neck). You can apply it to dry patches or use it as a lightweight body oil. You can also smooth squalane onto hair to tame frizz and add shine.
As you can see, there are a number of ways to use squalane to get its skin (and hair) benefits. Although squalane is generally well-tolerated, patch testing any new product is always a good idea to avoid potential reactions. Beyond the above, common questions we get about squalane include:
- Can squalane replace my moisturiser? for those with oily or combination skin, squalane may act as a standalone hydrator. However, for dry or mature skin, it works best as a layer over your regular moisturiser to lock in hydration.
- How often should I use squalane? squalane is gentle enough for daily use and can be applied both morning and evening.
- Is squalane safe for acne-prone skin? yes. Despite being an oil, squalane is non-comedogenic, so it won’t clog pores. In fact, it helps balance sebum production, which makes it suitable for those prone to breakouts.
Squalane is an underrated ingredient that has thoroughly earned its place as a staple in skincare routines worldwide. It can help improve the appearance and health of pretty much all skin types. It also addresses a variety of concerns including dryness, inflammation and early signs of ageing. Another benefit of squalane is that it can help improve tolerance to irritating active ingredients.
At City Skin Clinic, we are passionate about personalised skincare. Our online clinic offers safe and effective treatments using ingredients like tretinoin and hydroquinone where appropriate. Our doctors treat skin conditions like acne, hyperpigmentation, melasma and skin ageing, as well as hair loss, all via bespoke compounded treatments designed around you. To start your personalised plan, book a virtual video consultation or use our online consultation form. The journey towards great skin and hair starts here.
This article is intended for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always consult a qualified medical professional with any concerns about your skin, hair or treatment options.
