Squalane
A lightweight, non-comedogenic oil that mimics skin's natural sebum. The 'safe' moisturiser — almost no one reacts to it.
Strong as a non-irritating moisturiser. Moderate for atopic dermatitis support, sensitive skin barrier repair. Effects: immediate to days.
Squalane is the hydrogenated, shelf-stable form of squalene — a lipid the body and certain plants make naturally. Olive- and sugarcane-derived squalanes are now the dominant sources (shark-liver squalene is the historical, now-avoided source). It's lightweight, deeply moisturising, non-comedogenic, and doesn't trigger reactions in most sensitive-skin presentations. Excellent as a final occlusive step over serums, as a face oil, or for rosacea / eczema-prone skin where standard moisturisers irritate.
- Form
- 100% squalane oil (Biossance, The Ordinary, Indie Lee). Olive- or sugarcane-derived.
- Dose
- A few drops to face/neck after serums.
- Timing
- AM and PM. Last step in routine.
- Schedule
- Daily.
- Side effects
- Almost none. Rare contact reactions.
- Interactions
- Clean.
- Contraindications
- None significant.
- Lab markers
- Visual tracking.
- Food sources
- Squalane / squalene isn't food, but small amounts of squalene are in olive oil, rice bran oil, amaranth oil.
Pairs with
Active serums (HA, niacinamide, retinoids — squalane seals them in without altering pH). Ceramide-rich moisturisers for layered barrier support.
Where to buy
Prices are checked periodically and drift — Amazon’s is the live one. We take no commission on these links.
within Topicals (skin / transdermal)