Squalene & Squalane: The Skin-Saving Oils You Need to Know About

There’s always a new “miracle” ingredient in skincare, but every once in a while, one pops up that’s not just hype — it’s genuinely incredible. Say hello to squalene (and its more stable sibling, squalane). These two don’t just sound fancy — they’ve been hiding in plain sight, quietly hydrating and protecting your skin without demanding the spotlight.

So let’s dig into why this oil-derived ingredient is worth obsessing over — whether you’re a skincare newbie or a seasoned glow-getter.

🧪 So, What Is Squalene?

Squalene is a naturally occurring lipid (a fancy word for fat) produced by your skin cells — specifically as a component of sebum, your skin’s natural oil. This oil helps keep your skin barrier healthy, prevents moisture loss, and provides that soft, supple glow we’re all chasing.

Fun fact? Human sebum is composed of about 10–12% squalene, making it one of the most crucial elements of your skin's own moisturizing system.

But here’s the catch — your skin’s production of squalene starts to decline around your mid-20s (as if adulting wasn’t hard enough). Lower squalene = less moisture retention = more dryness, dullness, fine lines, and irritation. That’s why applying it topically is like giving your skin a drink of water and a big warm hug.

💥 Squalene vs. Squalane: Know the Difference

Let’s clear up the confusion once and for all, because this part trips up even the biggest skincare nerds.

Squalene:

• Natural, found in our skin and in certain plants and animals

• Highly unstable — oxidizes quickly, making it ineffective in cosmetic formulas

• Historically sourced from shark liver oil (😬 not sustainable)

Squalane:

• Hydrogenated version of squalene — same benefits, but doesn’t spoil

• Non-comedogenic, lightweight, and long-lasting

• Now typically derived from olives, sugarcane, or rice bran = vegan and eco-friendly 🌱

In short: Squalene is your skin's OG oil, but squalane is the lab-enhanced version that won’t go bad on your shelf. Think of squalane as squalene’s glowier, more reliable best friend.

🌟 Why Your Skin Loves Squalane

Squalane is like that perfect party guest — shows up, gets along with everyone, and leaves things better than they were.

Here’s what makes it a skincare superstar:

✅ Super Hydrating – It penetrates deep into the skin, locking in moisture without feeling greasy.

✅ Mimics Natural Oils – Your skin recognizes it immediately and drinks it up.

✅ Soothes Sensitivity – Calm irritation, redness, and dryness, especially for conditions like eczema, rosacea, or post-treatment skin.

✅ Antioxidant Protection – Fights free radical damage and premature aging.

✅ Balances Oil Production – Surprisingly great for oily and acne-prone skin because it tells your sebaceous glands to chill.

✅ Non-Irritating & Non-Comedogenic – Safe for all skin types, including acne-prone and sensitive skin.

Oh, and bonus — it can be used literally everywhere: face, body, hair, cuticles, even your lips.

💁‍♀️ How to Use Squalane in Your Routine

Wondering where squalane fits into your 10-step skincare journey? It’s shockingly versatile:

• As a facial oil – Press a few drops into skin after serums and before moisturizer (or in place of it).

• Mixed with your moisturizer – Amp up your hydration game.

• Layered under makeup – It helps create a smooth, dewy base.

• Post-treatments – Perfect after retinol, peels, or microneedling to calm and repair.

• In hair care – Tames frizz, adds shine, and smooths split ends without weighing down strands.

• On your body – Dry elbows, knees, or flaky shins? Done.

🔬 The Science: Why It Works

Squalane’s molecular structure is similar to the skin’s own lipids. That means it integrates seamlessly into your skin barrier, filling in gaps and restoring moisture where it’s needed most.

It’s also been shown in studies to:

• Reduce transepidermal water loss (TEWL)

• Improve skin elasticity

• Enhance skin texture

• Support wound healing and barrier repair

Think of it as a gentle guardian that strengthens your skin barrier from the inside out — no drama, no irritation.

🔥 Some of My Fave Squalane-Powered Products

Want to test it out for yourself? Start here:

🧴The Ordinary 100% Plant-Derived Squalane Straight-up squalane, no fluff, under £10.

🌹 Biossance Squalane + Vitamin C Rose Oil Glow city. Lightweight, luxe, and luminous. Smells divine too.

🧼 Indie Lee Squalane Facial Oil Sustainably sourced from olives, absorbs like a dream.

A cult classic.

🧴 Zein Obagi Hydrating Cleanser Squalane + panthenol + hyaluronic acid = chef’s kiss for dry skin. (I absolutely adore this one, using it every day, am and pm).

🧖‍♀️ Peter Thomas Roth Oilless Oil 100% Purified Squalane Silky, fast-absorbing hydration without a trace of greasiness.

💬 Final Thoughts: Why Squalane Deserves a Spot in Your Routine

We’ve tried a lot of ingredients in skincare — some are flashy, some are complicated, and some are just… confusing. But squalane? It’s simple, effective, and hardworking. It supports your skin’s natural barrier, boosts hydration, and helps your complexion look healthier, softer, and more radiant — no 12-step ritual required.

If your skin’s been feeling dull, flaky, or just meh, this could be the game-changer you’ve been waiting for. And with sustainability-focused brands making it better than ever, it’s a win for your face and the planet.

Your skin doesn’t need to be perfect. It just needs to be happy. And squalane? It’s pure happiness in a bottle.

With warmth and love ❤️

Wioleta