Squalane: The Complete Guide

Squalane is one of skincare’s most elegant moisturising ingredients — lightweight, stable and remarkably similar to your skin’s own oils. This guide explains what it is and why it suits nearly everyone.

What is squalane?

Your skin naturally produces squalene, a lipid that keeps the surface soft and protected — but it oxidises easily. Squalane (with an “a”) is the stable, shelf-friendly version, today usually derived sustainably from plants such as olives or sugarcane. Because it’s so close to skin’s own oil, it absorbs cleanly without a greasy film.

What does squalane do for skin?

• Softens and smooths — a fast-absorbing emollient that leaves skin supple, not slick.
• Reinforces the barrier — helps seal in moisture and reduce water loss.
• Lightweight comfort — hydrates without heaviness, so it suits oily and combination skin as well as dry.

How to use squalane

Squalane works in the moisturiser step, morning or night, and layers well over water-based serums to lock them in. It’s non-comedogenic for most people and pairs with every active. You’ll find it in our Moisture Cloud and Blue Copper 5 PRIME Face, where it reinforces the barrier alongside ceramides.

See how it fits the range in the Ingredient Glossary, or find your match with the skin quiz.

Frequently asked questions

Is squalane good for oily skin?

Yes. It’s lightweight and non-greasy, and being close to skin’s own oil it suits oily and combination skin as well as dry.

Is squalane the same as squalene?

Almost — squalane is the hydrogenated, stable form of squalene. It doesn’t oxidise, so it’s better suited to skincare.

Does squalane clog pores?

It’s considered non-comedogenic for most people and is generally well tolerated, even on acne-prone skin.

Can I use squalane with other actives?

Yes, it pairs with everything and can make stronger actives like retinol more comfortable.