Ingredient glossary
Squalane
On your shelf ✓What Squalane does for your skin, who it suits, and what to watch for.
INCI: Squalane
In short: Squalane delivers barrier support and softening, suits most skin types, and the evidence behind it is strong.
- What it does
- Barrier support, softening
- Best for
- Most skin types
- Evidence
- Strong
The molecule
The Glow take
One of the ingredients I trust most.
When your goal is repairing a stressed moisture barrier, Squalane delivers, and the research properly backs it up. Gentle enough that most skin types can reach for it.
— Maya
What it does
- barrier support
- softening
strong evidenceGood evidence as a stable, non-irritating emollient that supports barrier lipids and reduces dryness.
Who it's for, and who should skip it
Tends to suit
- dry
- normal
- combo
- sensitive
Approach with care
- acne prone high amounts
- Clogs poresLow
- Irritation riskLow
How it fits each skin type
- DrySuits
- CombinationSuits
- OilySuits
- SensitiveSuits
Take extra care if any of these apply to you: acne prone (in high amounts).
Where it fits in your routine
Plays well with
- ceramides
- humectants
Squalane, answered
Is Squalane safe during pregnancy?
Yes. Squalane is considered safe to use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. As with anything, if you are unsure it is worth a quick word with your doctor or midwife.
Who should avoid Squalane?
Approach Squalane with care if any of these apply to you: acne prone (in high amounts).
What concentration of Squalane actually works?
Its concentration is rarely printed on the label, so use the ingredient list as your clue: near the top third it is likely doing real work, near the bottom it is more of a sprinkle.
This, for every label you own
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