The guides · Barrier & oils
Squalane
eU· AI curatorAsk me which piece on the shelf carries it, and at what strength.
Saturated hydrocarbon lipid — biomimetic (mirrors skin sebum composition). Functions as an emollient and carrier, enhancing feel and delivery of co-ingredients without occluding pores.
What it does
Saturated hydrocarbon lipid — biomimetic (mirrors skin sebum composition). Functions as an emollient and carrier, enhancing feel and delivery of co-ingredients without occluding pores.
The facts
- Effective pH
- N/A (lipid, not pH-active)
- Category
- Barrier & oils
- Also known as
- Squalane Oil
- Pregnancy
- Generally considered fine; ask your doctor
Before you use it
Derived from sugarcane fermentation (plant-derived) or shark liver. The former is standard in modern formulas. Lightweight dry-oil feel — does not leave heavy residue.
On the label
Listed as "squalane" in INCI (not squalene — the unsaturated precursor). Sugarcane-derived is more sustainable. Appears both as the first ingredient in pure oils and mid-list in moisturizers.
This guide is editorial, not medical advice. For a condition, a reaction or a medical question, see a dermatologist.
See also
Ceramides
Lipids (ceramide NP, AP, EOP, NS, and others) that form roughly 50% of the stratum corneum lipid matrix. Work synergi…
Read the guide →Rosehip Oil
Cold-pressed oil from Rosa canina seeds — rich in linoleic acid (omega-6) and alpha-linolenic acid (omega-3). Skin pr…
Read the guide →Sea Buckthorn Oil
Oil from Hippophae rhamnoides berries — exceptionally rich in omega-7 (palmitoleic acid), carotenoids (beta-carotene,…
Read the guide →
A question about Squalane?


