Glossary
A lightweight, stable, non-comedogenic moisturizing oil derived from hydrogenating squalene (originally sourced from shark liver, now predominantly from olives, sugarcane, or rice bran). Squalane is biomimetic, closely resembling the squalene naturally present in human sebum, making it exceptionally well-tolerated by all skin types.
Squalene is a naturally occurring lipid that makes up approximately 12% of human sebum. It provides lubrication, antioxidant protection (as a singlet oxygen quencher), and emollient softening of the skin surface. However, squalene production peaks in the late teens and declines steadily with age; by age 50, squalene production may have dropped by 60% or more.
Squalane is the hydrogenated (stabilized) form of squalene. Raw squalene is unstable and oxidizes rapidly (becoming comedogenic when oxidized). Hydrogenation adds hydrogen atoms, converting the double bonds to single bonds and creating a shelf-stable oil that retains all of squalene's skin benefits without the oxidation risk.
Because squalane mimics a compound already in your sebum, it is exceptionally well-tolerated. It absorbs quickly, does not feel greasy, and does not clog pores (comedogenic rating: 0-1). It works for dry skin (provides lightweight moisture), oily skin (light enough not to cause congestion), sensitive skin (minimal irritation risk), and aging skin (replenishes declining natural squalene). Few ingredients can claim compatibility across all skin types this broadly.
Historically, squalane was sourced from deep-sea shark liver (squalus = shark). The environmental and ethical concerns of shark harvesting drove the industry to develop plant-based alternatives. Today, most cosmetic squalane is derived from olive oil, sugarcane, or rice bran through enzymatic or chemical hydrogenation. Plant-derived squalane is chemically identical to shark-derived squalane and provides identical skin benefits.
Yes. Squalane has a comedogenic rating of 0 to 1 (very low). Its lightweight texture and biomimetic composition make it one of the safest oils for acne-prone skin. Some evidence suggests that replenishing squalane may help regulate sebum production in oily skin, potentially reducing breakouts over time.
Apply 2 to 3 drops of squalane oil as the last step in your skincare routine (after water-based serums, before sunscreen in the morning). It can also be mixed into moisturizer for added emollient benefit, or applied to damp skin immediately after cleansing to lock in hydration.
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