Ingredient Guide

Squalane

Also known as: Sugarcane Squalane, Olive Squalane

All skin typesParticularly good for dry and sensitive skin

What It Is

A stable, hydrogenated form of squalene — a lipid naturally found in skin sebum. Derived from olive oil or sugarcane fermentation in modern cosmetics.

What It Does

Softens and conditions the skin, reinforces the moisture barrier, and provides a lightweight emollient feel without greasiness.

Best For

Dry skinSensitive skinBarrier supportLightweight hydrationDewy finish

Benefits

  • Closely mimics the squalene found naturally in skin sebum — highly compatible
  • Non-comedogenic and non-greasy
  • Very stable shelf life — does not oxidize like many face oils
  • Extremely well tolerated — low irritation potential
  • Suitable for face and body use

When to Be Careful

  • Can feel too light as the only moisturizing ingredient for very dry skin
  • Some people with fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis) prefer to confirm compatibility — squalane is generally considered low-risk, but individual responses vary
ItGirlies Ingredient Intelligence
Why This Gets Hype

Squalane became a clean beauty darling because it's derived from renewable plant sources (replacing shark liver oil), it's universally tolerated, and it provides real emollient benefits without the heaviness of most face oils. Brands like ILIA use it as a key emollient in complexion products.

What People Often Misunderstand

People often confuse squalane (the stable, shelf-safe cosmetic version) with squalene (the unstable version that oxidizes). These are related but different — squalane is hydrogenated specifically for cosmetic stability.

Best Routine Slot

Can be used morning or evening. In a standalone face oil format: last step before SPF (AM) or as a final sealing step (PM). In a complexion product like the ILIA Skin Tint, it functions as an emollient within the formula.

Good Match For

All skin types. Particularly excellent for people who find most face oils too heavy, or who want a lightweight emollient that won't clog pores.

Proceed Carefully If…

Almost no cautions at standard concentrations. If you have fungal acne concerns, squalane is generally considered safe, but confirm with your dermatologist.

Signs You May Be Overdoing It

Almost impossible to overdo squalane. If your skin consistently feels heavy or congested, review your full routine rather than blaming squalane.

Commonly Found In

Face oilsSerumsMoisturizersTinted skincareBody care

Products Containing Squalane

Super Serum Skin Tint SPF 40
ILIA
Saccharomyces Ferment 30% Milky Toner
The Ordinary
Lash Curl Finisher
The Ordinary
Retinol 1% in Squalane
The Ordinary
Squalane Cleanser
The Ordinary
Retinol 0.2% in Squalane
The Ordinary
Salicylic Acid 2% Anhydrous Solution
The Ordinary
100% Plant-Derived Squalane
The Ordinary
Squalane + Amino Acids Lip Balm
The Ordinary
Vitamin C Suspension 23% + HA Spheres 2%
The Ordinary
Retinal 0.2% Emulsion
The Ordinary
Resveratrol 3% + Ferulic Acid 3%
The Ordinary

FAQs About Squalane

Is squalane the same as squalene?
No — squalane is the hydrogenated, stable version used in skincare. Squalene is unstable and oxidizes. Modern formulations always use squalane.
Is squalane good for oily skin?
Yes — despite being an oil, squalane is non-comedogenic and non-greasy. It mimics skin's natural sebum, which can actually help balance sebum production.
Where does cosmetic squalane come from?
Modern squalane is almost always derived from olive oil or sugarcane fermentation. Shark-liver-derived squalane is largely no longer used in the industry.
Can I use squalane with retinol?
Yes — squalane is an excellent companion for retinol. It helps reduce the dryness and irritation associated with retinoid use.
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