Squalane – The skin's natural moisturizer

Squalane is one of the most valuable lipids in modern skincare. It is colorless, odorless, exceptionally well-tolerated, and considered skin-identical because it resembles the skin's natural sebum. This active ingredient provides intense hydration without leaving a greasy residue, leaving the skin feeling pleasantly smooth and silky.

What is squalane?

Squalane is the stable, oxidation-resistant form of squalene, a natural component of human sebum. In cosmetic products, it is now mostly derived from plant sources such as olives, sugar cane, or amaranth seeds. It has moisturizing and smoothing properties and supports the skin's natural protective barrier (nivea.de ).

Effect on the skin

Squalane forms a delicate film on the skin's surface and helps reduce transepidermal water loss (TEWL). At the same time, it improves the absorption of other active ingredients and protects the skin from oxidative stress. Due to its skin-like structure, it is particularly well-tolerated – even by sensitive, dry, or irritation-prone skin ( physiogel.de ).

Advantages at a glance

• Moisture reservoir: protects the skin from drying out and feelings of tightness.
• Skin barrier strengthening: stabilizes the lipid structure of the stratum corneum and improves its protective function ( beyer-soehne.de ).
• Antioxidant protection: neutralizes free radicals and prevents oxidative stress.
• Light texture: absorbs quickly, leaves no greasy residue and refines the skin's appearance.
• Universally applicable: ideal for sensitive, mature or low-oil skin ( mixa.com ).

Sustainable origin

Previously, squalane was partly derived from animal sources such as shark liver oil. Today, it comes almost exclusively from sustainable, plant-based production. Biotechnologically produced squalane from sugar cane is particularly popular, as it is manufactured in an environmentally friendly and CO₂-neutral way ( la-mer.com ).

In daily care

Squalane can be applied directly or used as an ingredient in serums and oils. It improves skin elasticity, reduces dryness, and leaves skin feeling velvety soft. Its full effect is particularly noticeable when combined with moisturizing or antioxidant ingredients.

In combination with NATURFACTOR® care

In NATURFACTOR®'s Blue Crystal Drops facial oil, squalane acts as a protective lipid booster. It promotes the absorption of bioactive ingredients, retains moisture, and provides a gentle, luxurious care effect – visibly smoother skin with a natural glow.

Conclusion

Squalane is a versatile, skin-identical active ingredient with intensive care properties. It strengthens the skin barrier, retains moisture, and protects against environmental stressors – without feeling heavy. Thanks to its sustainability and excellent tolerability, squalane is considered one of the most valuable ingredients in modern skincare.

Sources

1. Nivea – What is squalane?
2. Physiogel – ingredient squalane
3. Beyer & Sons – Squalane in skincare
4. Mixa – Squalane for sensitive skin
5. La Mer – active ingredient squalane

Tags: squalane, skin barrier, moisturizer, lipids, antioxidant, skincare