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Ingredient dictionary

Squalane

Squalane is a light, oil-like ingredient that softens skin and helps it hold moisture. It is a stable, hydrogenated form of squalene, a compound found naturally in skin. It is on the label of 96 products in our library. Checked against our library November 6, 2026.

The catch: none for most people; check the full product list if your skin reacts easily.

What Squalane does

  • Softens and smooths the skin's surface
  • Helps skin hold onto moisture
  • Adds slip to rinse-off formulas
  • Improves spreadability of creams and lotions

Squalane starts as squalene, an oily compound that is part of the skin's natural surface oils. Chemists add hydrogen to squalene, which makes it more stable and less likely to go rancid. Early squalane came from shark liver, but most modern supplies come from plants such as olives or sugarcane.

Formulators use squalane because it spreads easily and leaves a soft, smooth feel without a greasy film. It works in lotions, creams, serums and rinse-off products, and it blends well with many other oils. Because it is similar to compounds already in skin's surface oils, it is often chosen for products meant to feel gentle.

Good for

Suits most skin types, including dry and sensitive skin, and people who want a light feel that does not sit heavy.

Be careful if

Nothing in particular for most skin types.

Frequently asked questions

Is squalane the same as squalene?

Not quite. Squalene is the original compound, and squalane is the hydrogenated version of it. The extra hydrogen makes squalane more stable, so it lasts longer in a product and is less likely to go rancid over time.

Is squalane good for oily skin?

Often, yes. Squalane is light and does not feel heavy, so many people with oily or combination skin find it works well. Results vary, so patch test a new product first and see how your own skin responds over a few days.

Products with Squalane

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