Squalane

INCI: Squalane | Function: Emollient, Moisturizer | Type: Hydrocarbon (saturated)

What Is Squalane?

Squalane is the hydrogenated, stable form of squalene, a lipid naturally found in human sebum (~12%). It is a lightweight, non-comedogenic emollient that mimics skin's natural oils, providing deep moisture without greasiness. Most modern squalane is plant-derived (olive or sugarcane).

Key Skin Benefits

+ Skin-identical lipid (12% of human sebum)
+ Lightweight, fast-absorbing moisture
+ Non-comedogenic despite being an oil
+ Antioxidant protection (squalene precursor)
+ Improves skin elasticity and suppleness

Pros

+ Excellent biocompatibility (matches skin lipids)
+ Very light texture — suitable for oily skin
+ Non-comedogenic unlike many plant oils
+ Plant-derived (sustainable, not shark)
+ Stable (hydrogenated form)

Cons

− Higher cost than mineral oil or silicone
− Some plant sources have lower purity
− Over-harvesting concerns for olive-derived
− Squalane vs squalene confusion among consumers

Specifications

Property	Value
Usage Areas	Face, Eye, Body, Hair
Product Type	Leave-On, Rinse-Off
Source	Plant (olive / sugarcane)
Natural Level	Natural-derived

Safety Ratings

Metric	Rating
Skin Sensitivity	0/5 (none)
Comedogenic Rating	0-1/5
EWG Score	1/10

Regional Regulatory Limits

Region	Leave-on %	Rinse-off %	Status
EU (CosIng)	No limit	No limit	Allowed
US (CIR/FDA)	No limit	No limit	Allowed
Japan (MHLW)	No limit	No limit	Allowed
ASEAN	No limit	No limit	Allowed
China (NMPA)	No limit	No limit	Allowed

Typical Usage % by Product Type

Product Type	Typical %
Face oil (pure or blended)	5 - 100%
Moisturizer	1 - 10%
Hair oil	1 - 5%

References

Huang ZR et al. (2009) — Squalene/squalane review. PMID: 19509133
Kim SK & Karadeniz F (2012) — Biological importance of squalene. PMID: 22542476
EWG Skin Deep — Score 1/10

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