What is Squalane? Benefits, Uses, and Sustainability

Squalane: The Skin-Identical Lipid That Softens Your Skin

 

What is Squalane?

Squalane (INCI: Squalane) is a skin-identical lipid commonly used in cosmetic products and can also be applied directly to the skin.

Squalane is derived from squalene, a natural component found in human skin. However, squalene is unstable and would degrade quickly, so it is hydrogenated into squalane, creating a highly stable oil with skin-friendly and protective properties.

 

How is Squalane Made? 

Plant-based squalane (also known as phytosqualane) is typically extracted from olive oil or sugarcane.

Be cautious, though; in the past, squalene was derived solely from shark liver, hence the name (from the Latin "squalus" meaning shark), and some cosmetic products still use squalane sourced from shark liver oil, which is neither ethical nor eco-friendly. Sharks are vital to the ocean's ecosystem, and their decline could threaten marine biodiversity.  

 

Natural Moisturising Factors for Hydrated Skin 

Your skin's moisture levels depend on both the hydration you provide to your skin and the strength of your skin barrier. However, this system becomes less effective as you age. And the hydration in our skin declines. Skin struggles to transport and bind moisture into deeper layers, making it more prone to premature aging.

This shows up as dry patches, a lackluster complexion, lines, wrinkles, and redness. If the lipid film (your skin barrier) is also disrupted, UV rays, pollution, bacteria, and viruses can easily penetrate and harm your skin cells.

Our skin has its own built-in moisturising agents known as Natural Moisturising Factors (NMF). These are a combination of water-attracting (hydrophilic) ingredients like amino acids, lactic acid, and urea. This clever blend helps lock water into the skin cells. Smart, right?

A Strong Skin Barrier Protects Against Dehydration
In addition to natural moisturising factors, the skin barrier plays a crucial role in retaining moisture. Composed of lipids, it prevents water from evaporating too quickly from the corneocytes.

When the skin barrier is compromised, it becomes more permeable. Its protective and moisture-retaining functions weaken, allowing dry air to draw water from your skin, no matter how much hydration you apply. The result? Dryness, a dull complexion, and more visible lines and wrinkles.

The stronger your skin barrier, the better your skin can retain moisture from your skincare products.

 

Benefits of Squalane for Skin

Squalane softens and smooths the skin while strengthening the skin barrier.

• Sustainable and natural alternative to mineral oils
• Gentle and ideal for sensitive, irritated, or redness-prone skin
• Holds moisture better than most plant-based oils, comparable to mineral oil
• Does not clog pores or feed acne-causing bacteria, making it suitable for all skin types, including those with rosacea

 

Key Benefits of Squalane:

• Locks in hydration for long-lasting moisture
• Leaves skin soft, radiant, and healthy-looking
• Strengthens the skin barrier and improves elasticity
• Supports recovery from UV damage (not a substitute for sunscreen)
• Reduces fine lines and wrinkles
• Acts as an antioxidant, preventing fat oxidation and reducing breakouts
• Does not clog pores and penetrates 20 times deeper than typical moisturising oils
• Enhances the effectiveness of other active ingredients by up to 40 times

 

How Does Squalane Feel on the Skin?

Squalane is a clear, lightweight oil that feels light to the touch, unlike heavier plant-based oils such as avocado or rosehip oil that are high in oleic acid. It absorbs quickly and leaves no greasy residue, making it an excellent addition to skincare products.

 

 

Boost Your Makeup with Squalane

Mix squalane with mineral makeup to improve texture and achieve a dewy glow.

 

 

Squalane vs. Squalene: What’s the Difference?

Squalane is a substance that mimics a naturally occurring compound in skin sebum called squalene. However, squalene, being an unsaturated fatty acid, is unsuitable for cosmetics due to its short shelf life. That’s why it’s converted into squalane, making it stable, long-lasting, and resistant to oxidation (how this process works is explained below). This creates a beloved, colourless, and odourless oil that’s perfect for facial care. In summary:

• Squalene: A natural antioxidant found in human skin, but highly unstable and unsuitable for use in cosmetics.
• Squalane: A stable, longer-lasting version of squalene, perfect for skincare.
• Phytosqualane: Refers to plant-derived squalane, ensuring it’s not sourced from shark liver oil.

Why is Squalane an Antioxidant?
Squalane prevents fat oxidation on the skin, reducing the risk of breakouts like blackheads. While natural squalene has stronger antioxidant properties, it is unstable and prone to oxidation, which can lead to skin issues.

 

How to Use Squalane

Since squalane is naturally present in the skin, it’s highly compatible and well-tolerated. Even those with sensitive skin can use it without worry. You can choose to use pure squalane or combine it with other powerhouse ingredients.

For a more antioxidant-rich squalane option, consider signing up to our newsletter as we are launching an exciting new product this year containing squalane in one powerful formula.

 

Not All Squalane Is Created Equal – The NAYA Squalane Difference

Quality can vary significantly between squalane products. The purity largely depends on the raw materials used. At NAYA, we only use ultra-pure, bio-based squalane derived from sustainably grown sugarcane for our NAYA Products. This premium-quality squalane achieves an outstanding purity of about 96%.

 

Certified Organic Quality

Our squalane, made from organic sugarcane, is a certified organic ingredient. It intensely nourishes the skin, boosts hydration levels, and leaves it incredibly soft. This valuable squalane is lightweight, non-greasy, and absorbs quickly.

 

Microbiome-Friendly, Rated "Very Good"

Our skin hosts a variety of microorganisms, forming what’s known as the skin microbiome. A balanced microbiome is essential for healthy skin. When disrupted, it can lead to conditions like dermatitis or psoriasis. That’s why we ensure all our ingredients and products are microbiome-friendly.