The Power of Squalene and Squalane in Skin and Hair Care: What You Need to Know
Believe it or not, our bodies have very smart systems designed to protect us from environmental damage.
These include defense mechanisms against air pollution, prolonged exposure to the sun, and even mechanisms that reduce the risk of cancer.
One of our most fascinating and complex protection systems is our skin – it not only protects our bodies, but also plays an important role in immune defense, hydration, and temperature regulation.
At the heart of this natural defense system is a compound that was once overlooked but has since become a star in the world of skincare and cosmetics: squalene and its more stable counterpart, squalane.
What is squalene and why is it so important?
Squalene is a natural lipid produced by plants and animals and is also a component of human sebum (the oily substance secreted by the sebaceous glands in the skin).
This oil is important for soft, smooth, and elastic skin.
In human biology, squalene acts as a natural emollient, lubricant, and antioxidant, protecting the skin from environmental pollutants and oxidative stress caused by UV rays.
Squalene is not only useful, but also essential for skin health. Unfortunately, like many biological processes, the body’s own production of squalene decreases with age.
This decline leads to common signs of aging, such as dry skin, fine lines, and a weakened skin barrier.
The Rise of Squalane: Skincare’s Best Kept Secret
As natural, science-based skincare products grow in popularity, squalane, the stable, hydrogenated form of squalene, is taking the spotlight.
Unlike squalene, which oxidizes quickly and has a short shelf life, squalane is shelf-stable and suitable for use in a wide range of cosmetic formulations.
It’s no surprise that beauty influencers, dermatologists, and the wellness community have discovered squalane. On platforms like TikTok, hashtags like “#squalane” have garnered millions of views.
Users report refreshed skin and a streamlined skincare routine after using squalane serums, creams, and oils.
Where Does Squalene Come From? Is It Sustainable?
Historically, one of the most concentrated sources of squalene was found in the livers of deep-sea sharks—a practice that has raised ethical and environmental concerns.
Today, squalene (and squalane) in cosmetics is mostly derived from plants, such as olives, rice bran, sugar cane, and amaranth seeds. This makes it a more sustainable and cruelty-free choice.
Before buying skincare products, it’s always a good idea to check the origin of the ingredients.
Look for labels that say “plant-based” or “vegan squalane,” especially if animal welfare and environmental sustainability are important to you.
Squalene vs. Squalane: What’s the Real Difference?
Despite their nearly identical names, squalene and squalane are chemically different:
Squalene (with an “e”) is a naturally occurring unsaturated compound found in our skin and from animal and plant sources.
It’s very beneficial, but also very unstable and easily oxidizes when exposed to air or light.
Squalane (with an “a”) is the hydrogenated form of squalene. Hydrogenation converts the double bonds in squalene into single bonds.
This makes it more stable, non-oxidizing, and suitable for long-term storage and cosmetic formulations.
Essentially, squalane retains all the nourishing benefits of squalene without the drawbacks of rapid degradation.
6 Significant Benefits of Squalane for Skin and Hair
1. Prevents Premature Skin Aging
Squalane is often hailed as an effective anti-aging agent. Because it closely resembles the skin’s natural oils, it blends seamlessly into the lipid layer of the epidermis.
This not only moisturizes the skin, but also reduces fine lines, wrinkles, and dullness.
Squalane regenerates the skin’s moisture, making it appear younger and more radiant. Many users report significant improvements in skin texture and elasticity after regular use of squalane products.
💡 Tip: Use a night cream with vegan squalane and hyaluronic acid to retain moisture while you sleep. Look for formulas with glacial glycoproteins to promote skin regeneration.
2. Mimics the Skin’s Natural Oils
Because squalane has a biomimetic effect – i.e. it mimics the body’s natural lipids – it works well for almost all skin types, even sensitive and acne-prone skin.
It strengthens the skin barrier, reduces transepidermal water loss, and protects against UV rays, toxins, and allergens.
One of the hidden benefits of squalane is its ability to enhance sun protection, giving the skin an extra line of defense against damaging carcinogens.
3. Deep Hydration
As we age, the body’s own production of squalene slows significantly. The result is drier, less elastic skin. Restoring this lipid through skincare helps restore the natural moisture barrier.
Serums and creams containing squalane have a silky-soft texture that doesn’t feel greasy or heavy. They penetrate deep into the dermis and retain moisture for hours.
💡 Tip: Try a facial oil like Dreamy Glow Drops, which combines squalane with other antioxidants to leave skin soft, hydrated, and glowy.
4. Strengthens and Nourishes Hair
The benefits of squalane extend far beyond the skin. Applied to hair, squalane oil acts as a lightweight, non-greasy moisturizer that protects against heat, pollution, and UV rays.
It can help repair split ends, restore shine and reduce frizz. Unlike heavier oils that can clog follicles or weigh down fine hair, squalane absorbs quickly and leaves behind a soft, natural-looking shine.
💡 How to Use: Warm a few drops between palms and apply to wet or dry hair. Rinse after 20 minutes for an intensive treatment, or leave on skin for a subtle glow.
5. Non-comedogenic: Won’t clog pores
One of squalane’s most notable properties is its non-comedogenic benefits. Unlike mineral oils and strong occlusives, squalane allows the skin to breathe.
It doesn’t clog pores, making it perfect for those with oily or acne-prone skin.
Squalane also has a soothing effect on active acne, reducing redness, relieving irritation, and speeding up regeneration.
💡 Products to try: Complement your skincare routine with a deep cleansing product containing squalane—it exfoliates, removes impurities, and hydrates.
6. Improves the overall appearance of your skin
Squalane can visibly improve skin tone, texture, and clarity. Regular use helps:
Lightens dark spots and hyperpigmentation
Reduces acne scars
Relieves eczema and rosacea
Reduces inflammation and redness
Its antioxidant properties help neutralize free radicals, protect the skin from oxidative stress, and slow the breakdown of collagen and elastin.
Who should use squalane?
Due to its gentle, hypoallergenic properties, squalane is suitable for almost everyone. It is safe for:
Dry and sensitive skin
Oily and acne-prone skin
Mature skin seeking anti-aging solutions
People undergoing cosmetic treatments such as chemical peels or laser therapy
Infants and pregnant women can also safely use plant-based squalane to soften the skin and repair the skin barrier. However, we always recommend consulting your doctor.
How to Incorporate Squalane into Your Routine
It’s easy to incorporate squalane into your skin and hair care routine:
Use squalane oil as a serum after cleansing and before moisturizing.
Mix a drop into foundation or BB cream for a dewy finish.
Apply to the hair shaft and ends before heat styling.
Use it as a night cream to restore moisture while you sleep.
Look for cleansers, creams, or masks that have squalane as a base ingredient.
Final Thoughts: Nature’s Answer to Modern Skincare
Squalane has truly earned its place in the spotlight from a relatively unknown compound to a multi-functional skincare superhero.
It delivers the nourishment of a rich cream, the lightweight feel of a serum, and the protection of natural antioxidants—all rolled into one elegant solution.
Whether you’re combating dryness, reducing signs of aging, caring for damaged hair, or looking for a reliable moisturizer that won’t clog your pores, squalane is a valuable addition to your skincare routine.
The next time you check a product label, remember: Squalane may be just the transformative ingredient your skin (and hair) has been waiting for.
