If you’ve been scrolling through skincare aisles or beauty blogs lately, you’ve likely seen squalane popping up in serums, moisturizers, and even cleansers. It’s a skincare ingredient that’s gaining tons of buzz—and for good reason. Let’s dive into why squalane is becoming the hydration hero your skin won’t be able to live without!
What Is Squalane?
Squalane is a powerhouse skincare ingredient known for its ability to deeply hydrate and protect the skin without clogging pores. It’s a hydrogenated, more stable version of squalene—a lipid naturally produced by our sebaceous glands to maintain moisture and support the skin barrier. However, as we age, our natural squalene levels decline, leading to dryness, fine lines, and a compromised skin barrier. That’s where squalane steps in.
Squalane is a plant-derived, shelf-stable alternative that mimics our skin’s natural oils, making it an excellent emollient for replenishing lost moisture and restoring a healthy, dewy glow. Unlike heavier oils, squalane is lightweight, fast-absorbing, and non-comedogenic, meaning it won’t clog pores or cause breakouts.
This skincare superhero is typically sourced from olives, sugarcane, and rice bran, making it a sustainable and vegan-friendly option. Its versatility makes it suitable for all skin types, from oily and acne-prone to dry and sensitive. Because it closely resembles the skin’s natural sebum, squalane helps balance oil production, soothe irritation, and strengthen the skin’s protective barrier—leaving you with softer, healthier-looking skin.
Why Is Squalane So Amazing?
1. Hydration Without the Grease
Squalane is a fast-absorbing oil that hydrates without leaving your skin feeling greasy or heavy. It penetrates quickly, locking in moisture while leaving a silky-smooth finish. It’s ideal for maintaining that fresh, plump skin feeling all day long.
2. Non-Comedogenic
If you’re prone to breakouts or have oily skin, you may have avoided oils in the past. But here’s the thing: squalane won’t clog your pores. It helps regulate oil production and can prevent clogged pores. It’s gentle and perfect for everyone, no matter your skin type.
3. Soothing and Anti-Inflammatory
Squalane is also a soothing agent. It can help calm irritated or red skin, making it especially beneficial for those with sensitive or reactive skin. Its anti-inflammatory properties make it effective for treating issues like acne, eczema, and sunburns.
4. Anti-Aging Power
Squalane’s ability to retain moisture helps boost your skin’s elasticity and minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Hydrated skin looks plumper and firmer, contributing to a more youthful complexion.
5. Free Radical Fighter
Squalane acts as an antioxidant, protecting your skin from free radicals that can cause premature aging. By keeping your skin hydrated and fortified, squalane helps create a barrier against environmental stressors like pollution and UV rays.
How to Use Squalane in Your Routine
1. After Cleansing
Start with a freshly cleansed face. Apply a few drops of squalane oil (or serum) directly onto damp skin. This helps lock in moisture and creates a smooth base for other treatments or makeup.
2. As a Moisturizer
If your skin feels extra dry or you live in a dry climate, you can use squalane as a moisturizer. It’s perfect for layering under your regular moisturizer or as the last step in your routine for an added boost of hydration.
3. Mix with Your Foundation
Want a dewy glow? Mix a drop or two of squalane oil with your foundation to boost hydration and achieve a radiant finish. It’ll give your makeup a natural, glowing look without feeling oily.
4. As a Makeup Remover
Squalane is also great for gently removing makeup without stripping your skin’s natural oils. Massage it onto your face, and watch your makeup melt away while your skin stays nourished.
Product Recommendations: The Best Squalane-Based Products
The Ordinary 100% Squalane Oil
About this product: A cult favorite in the skincare world, The Ordinary’s 100% Squalane Oil is a budget-friendly, no-fuss option for boosting your skin’s hydration. This pure, plant-derived squalane oil mimics the skin’s natural lipids, helping to lock in moisture, improve elasticity, and support the skin barrier. Its ultra-lightweight texture absorbs quickly without feeling greasy, making it ideal for beginners and seasoned skincare enthusiasts alike.
Why we love it: Affordable, versatile, and effective for all skin types—including oily and acne-prone.
Biossance Squalane + Vitamin C Rose Oil
About this product: A luxurious blend of sugarcane-derived squalane with vitamin C and rose extract for a potent, glow-boosting formula. It brightens skin, evens out tone, and reduces the appearance of dark spots while delivering deep hydration.
Why we love it: Delivers an instant dewy glow and improves skin texture over time.
Fenty Skin Hydra’Reset Intensive Recovery Gel
About this product: Designed as an overnight treatment, this squalane-packed gel hydrates, soothes, and replenishes the skin while you sleep. Infused with papaya enzymes to gently exfoliate and vitamin C to brighten.
Why we love it: Leaves skin soft, supple, and visibly brighter by morning.
Laneige Water Bank Moisture Cream
About this product: Infused with squalane and mineral-rich water ingredients to replenish and lock in moisture. It strengthens the skin’s barrier while delivering long-lasting hydration.
Why we love it: Hydrates like a rich cream but feels light on the skin.
Tatcha The Dewy Skin Cream
About this product: Formulated with squalane and Japanese purple rice—a rich source of antioxidants—this cream enhances the skin’s natural glow while locking in moisture.
Why we love it: Provides deep hydration and enhances skin’s luminosity.
Glow Recipe Plum Plump Hyaluronic Cream
About this product: A lightweight yet intensely hydrating moisturizer featuring squalane, hyaluronic acid, and antioxidant-rich plum extract.
Why we love it: Leaves skin soft, supple, and glowing without feeling greasy.
Youth to the People Superberry Hydrate + Glow Oil
About this product: This ultra-nourishing facial oil is packed with squalane and antioxidant-rich superfruits to shield the skin from environmental stressors.
Why we love it: Enhances skin’s natural radiance while improving elasticity.
Squalane: The Hydration Hero Your Skin Deserves
Whether you’re looking to add hydration to your daily routine, want a dewy, plump complexion, or need an oil that won’t clog your pores, squalane is the answer. It’s a gentle, nourishing, and multitasking ingredient that suits every skin type and addresses a range of concerns—from dryness to fine lines.
Give your skin the love it deserves with this hydration hero—your complexion will thank you!
