Squalane
Hydrogenated form of squalene, a natural component of sebum. A lightweight emollient that does not clog pores and restores the lipid barrier.
Evidence by route
Topical application
Clinical studies confirm barrier function restoration and TEWL reduction. Non-comedogenicity demonstrated in standard dermatological tests. Well tolerated even in atopic dermatitis.
- Huang ZR et al. Molecules. 2009;14(1):540-554. PMID 19169201
- Kim SK et al. Adv Food Nutr Res. 2012;65:223-33. PMID 22361190
How to read tiers A–F
- BLimited evidence. One RCT or several controlled studies with limitations
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Safe
- Suitable for
- Oily, Dry, Sensitive, Combination, Normal
About this ingredient
Squalane is the hydrogenated form of squalene, a saturated hydrocarbon C30H62. The molecule is stable and does not oxidise in air. Sourced from olive oil, sugarcane (biotechnologically via Saccharomyces cerevisiae) or, less often, shark liver (in Europe and Japan almost fully replaced by plant and biotech squalane). Mechanism. Biomimetic lipid: squalene accounts for about 12% of sebum and squalane is structurally close. Restores barrier function, lowers TEWL, retains moisture. Does not clog pores or leave a greasy film. Where applied. Serums and creams (0.5-100%), oil-serums (The Ordinary 100% Squalane, Indeed Labs), atopic-skin creams, post-procedure care. In Spain it features in Bioderma Atoderm, La Roche-Posay Lipikar, Sesderma Hidraderm, Isdin Lambdapil. Evidence base. Huang 2009, Kelly 1998 showed barrier restoration and reduced scaling over 4 weeks of daily use. Acne patients tolerate it without flare-up (Pham 2018). Safe for fungal acne (Malassezia-safe). Safety. CIR confirmed safety across all cosmetic types. Hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic (Fulton rating 0). No systemic absorption through intact skin. Pregnancy and lactation – safe. Applicable at any stage and on any area, including face, breast, abdomen, nipples during breastfeeding. Particularly suited for. Atopic dermatitis, rosacea, perioral dermatitis, acne (including fungal acne), dry and sensitive skin, post-procedure recovery, skin after retinoids. One of the most versatile emollients with minimal irritation risk.
Frequently asked questions
Is Squalane safe during pregnancy?
Squalane is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Squalane for?
Squalane suits: oily, dry, sensitive, combination, normal.
What is Squalane and what does it do in cosmetics?
Hydrogenated form of squalene, a natural component of sebum.
Is Squalane comedogenic?
On the Fulton scale 0/5 – non-comedogenic. For acne-prone skin, a rating of 3 or higher suggests choosing an alternative.
What's the INCI name for Squalane?
The INCI name is Squalane.
See Squalane in a product composition right on the store page
The Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to iHerb, Sephora, Druni and 12 more stores. This ingredient and every other one in the product show evidence-tier, allergen risk and pregnancy/lactation flags at a glance.
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Explore by category
Moisturizing, Barrier repair, Post-retinoid recovery, Fungal acne safe, Compromised barrier rebuild, Perioral dermatitis safe, Post-procedure recovery
Ingredients in the same category
Squalene, Stearic Acid, Sucrose, Sucrose Tristearate, Butyrospermum Parkii Butter Extract, Ficus Carica Oil, Hydrolyzed Soy Flour, Panax Ginseng Seed Oil
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