Hydrators· in 9 products

Squalane

Also listed as Squalane (INCI), Hydrogenated squalene, Olive squalane and Sugarcane-derived squalane

Moderate evidence 1–10% in creams; up to 100% in single-ingredient oils

Squalane is a saturated, stable form of squalene, a lipid that skin's own sebum contains. It is a lightweight, non-greasy emollient used in facial oils, moisturizers and hair serums.

Shop 9 with squalane All ingredients

9SqSqualaneHydrators

What it does

The short version.

Squalane fills gaps between surface skin cells and forms a thin, breathable film that softens skin and slows water loss. Because it is fully hydrogenated, it does not oxidize the way squalene does, which makes it shelf-stable and low in odor. Today it is mostly made from olives or fermented sugarcane rather than shark liver. On hair it adds slip and shine and can reduce the look of frizz.

Moderate evidence

Its role as an emollient and its safety are well documented by cosmetic safety assessments, but there are few controlled trials of squalane alone for specific skin outcomes.

In our directory: It’s a key ingredient in 9 products we review, most often moisturizers and complexion. Those products are mostly built for hydrating, barrier repair and long-lasting moisture. In formulas, it most often shares the label with glycerin, hyaluronic acid and niacinamide.

Reach for it for

Hydrating Dryness relief Long-lasting moisture Smoothing Shine Frizz control

Usually a good fit for

All skin types Dry skin Normal skin Combination skin Mature skin All hair types

How to use it

Getting it right.

Press a few drops onto damp skin after water-based serums or mix into moisturizer; use as a final step morning or night. For hair, smooth a drop or two over mid-lengths and ends.

Layering

Friends & frenemies.

Pairs well with

Retinol Hyaluronic acid Ceramides Vitamin C Bakuchiol

Before you start

Considered safe and very low in irritation by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review panel. Rarely, oil-rich products feel heavy on very oily or acne-prone skin; patch test new products.

References

Educational, not medical advice. Ingredient guides summarise published research and expert guidance; formulas and concentrations differ between products.