Skin Atlas
Definition & Application
An archive of mapped terms.
Classified within the context of modern skincare.
Squalane: The skin-identical active ingredient for intense hydration
Squalane is one of the most versatile lipids in modern skincare – colorless, odorless, and exceptionally well-tolerated. As a stabilized form of the body's own squalene, it resembles the skin's natural sebum and supports moisture retention and barrier protection without leaving greasy residue.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
What is squalane?
Squalane is the stable, oxidation-resistant form of squalene – a natural component of human skin sebum. In cosmetic products, it is now predominantly derived from plant sources such as olives, sugarcane, or amaranth seeds. It acts as a moisturizer, smooths the skin, and helps strengthen the skin's natural protective barrier.
In the past, squalane was partly sourced from animal sources like shark liver oil. Today, it is almost exclusively produced from plant sources and sustainably. Biotechnologically produced squalane from sugarcane is particularly common, manufactured in an environmentally friendly and CO₂-neutral way.
Squalane is considered skin-identical – its molecular structure so closely resembles natural sebum that the skin recognizes it as its own and absorbs it without problems.
How does squalane work on the skin?
Squalane forms a delicate film on the skin's surface, reducing transepidermal water loss (TEWL). At the same time, it can improve the absorption of other active ingredients and helps protect the skin from oxidative stress. Due to its skin-like structure, it is particularly well-tolerated – even by sensitive, dry, or irritation-prone skin.
Benefits and effects
- Moisture reservoir: protects the skin from dehydration and feelings of tightness.
- Skin barrier strengthening: stabilizes the lipid structure of the stratum corneum and helps improve its protective function.
- Antioxidant protection: can help neutralize free radicals and counteract oxidative stress.
- Light texture: absorbs quickly, leaves no greasy film, and refines the skin's appearance.
- Universally applicable: ideal for sensitive, mature, or lipid-deficient skin.
Application and tolerability
Squalane can be applied neat or used as an ingredient in serums and oils. It improves skin elasticity, reduces dryness, and gives a velvety skin feel. Thanks to its non-comedogenic properties, it does not clog pores, making it suitable for combination skin.
In NATURFACTOR®'s Blue Crystal Drops facial oil, squalane is used as a protective lipid booster. It promotes the absorption of bioactive ingredients, preserves moisture, and provides a gentle, luxurious care effect – visibly smoother skin with a natural glow.
Combination with other active ingredients
Squalane is an excellent carrier and booster. It harmonizes particularly well with hyaluronic acid, as both active ingredients bind and store moisture at different levels. In combination with ceramides – the skin barrier's natural lipid molecules – squalane unfolds its full effect as a barrier stabilizer. It is also well-tolerated with antioxidant active ingredients like vitamin C or vitamin E and can support their protective effect.
Who is squalane suitable for?
Squalane is suitable for almost all skin types. Particularly beneficial for:
- Dry and very dry skin: receives intense nourishment without feeling heavy.
- Sensitive and reactive skin: generally tolerates squalane very well, as it causes almost no irritation.
- Mature skin: gains suppleness and elasticity due to the lipid-replenishing effect.
- Combination skin: benefits from the light, non-comedogenic texture.
Frequently asked questions about squalane
Is squalane the same as squalene?
No. Squalene is the natural, unstable form found in human skin sebum. Squalane is the hydrogenated, oxidation-resistant version used in cosmetic products and has a significantly longer shelf life.
Can squalane be used daily?
Yes. Squalane is suitable for daily use – morning and evening. It is compatible with most active ingredients and can be easily integrated into an existing skincare routine.
Does squalane clog pores?
No. Squalane is considered non-comedogenic. It absorbs quickly, leaves no heavy greasy film, and is therefore also suitable for blemish-prone skin.
Conclusion
Squalane is a versatile, skin-identical active ingredient with intense nourishing power. It can help strengthen the skin barrier, retain moisture, and protect against environmental influences – without feeling heavy. Thanks to its sustainable origin and excellent tolerability, squalane is one of the most valuable ingredients in modern skincare.
