What is the difference between squalene and squalane?
| Feature | Squalene | Squalane |
|---|---|---|
| What it is | An oily compound found naturally in humans, other animals and plants. | The saturated form made by hydrogenating squalene. |
| Stability | More susceptible to oxidation and becoming rancid in skincare products. | Less susceptible to oxidation and more stable. |
| Use in skincare | An emollient that helps soften skin. | More commonly used as a moisturizing ingredient. |
Hydrogenation changes squalene's chemical structure by eliminating its double bonds. The result is a more stable ingredient, not a water based version of the oil. Read the ingredient list to distinguish the two names; the front of the bottle has other ambitions.2
Where does squalene come from?
Your body makes squalene, and it accounts for about 13% of human sebum. Squalene also plays a role in the body's production of cholesterol. It occurs in shark liver oil and plant oils including olive, palm, amaranth and rice bran oils. A squalene ingredient is therefore not automatically plant derived; check the stated origin if that matters to your choice.12
Does being an oil mean it feels greasy?
Not necessarily. Squalane has a lightweight feel rather than the oily feel its classification might suggest. Emollients are ingredients that improve skin softness, smoothness and flexibility. Squalene and squalane belong in that moisturizing conversation, rather than being ingredients that simply add water. A lightweight oil can suit someone who dislikes thick face cream, so moisturizing need not feel like a change of upholstery.23
How do you use squalane oil?
- 1Apply lighter products, such as a serum or toner, first.
- 2Layer squalane oil on top to help reduce moisture loss from the skin's surface.
Squalane also comes in lightweight creams, so a separate facial oil is not the only way to use it. If your skin still feels dry after moisturizer, squalane can help retain moisture. Choose between an oil and a cream based on the texture you prefer, rather than assuming an oil must be heavier.3
For sensitive or acne prone skin, consider the whole formula. Squalane itself is considered noncomedogenic, meaning it does not tend to clog pores, but other oils in a product can contribute to blocked pores. Fragrances, preservatives and dyes can trigger allergic contact dermatitis, an allergic skin reaction.3
Where this answer comes from
- 1Biological and Pharmacological Activities of Squalene and Related Compounds: Potential Uses in Cosmetic Dermatologypmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- 2Moisturizers: The Slippery Roadpmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- 3Squalane: What It Is and Benefitshealth.clevelandclinic.org
