Squalane

What’s Squalane ?

Squalane is a hydrocarbon derived from the hydrogenation of squalene, a tricosane. Squalane is a fully saturated hydrocarbon that contains no double bonds, and unlike squalene, squalane does not naturally oxidise. Because squalane is more stable and cheaper than squalene, it is commonly used in cosmetics for its emollient and moisturising properties.

Product Information

Squalane oil benefits

Your hair and skin are the main benefactors when it comes to squalane. Here’s what it can do:

Hair benefits

Squalane has a natural moisturizing factor that can be great for your hair, says Dr. Vij.

“That’s going to help keep a nice glossy shine on your hair,” he continues. “Squalane sits on the outer surface of hair to help smooth everything. Hair follicles generally grow in association with sebaceous glands around it, so naturally, there’s going to be a little bit of that oil sitting on top of it.”

But factors like weather, age, heat damage and your diet can lead to dry hair, breakage and split ends. Try applying a couple drops of squalane oil to your scalp, massage it in and then rinse out.

Skin benefits

So, what does squalane do for skin? Just like squalane can help boost moisture in your hair, it can do the same for your skin when applied topically. The results? Healthier-looking skin.

“You can use it on your face to help seal in cosmetic products like lighter serums or toners that you’re using,” says Dr. Vij.

Dr. Vij also says he sees people who complain of really dry skin, even after applying moisturizer.

“Squalane may be good for those kinds of people,” he continues. “Or if you don’t like the feeling of a thicker face cream, squalene can be really good for you, too, since it’s lightweight.”

And if you have oily or acne-prone skin, you may have shied away from oils in the past. But Dr. Vij says that squalane is safe to use. It’s noncomedogenic so it won’t clog your pores. In fact, research shows that squalane’s anti-inflammatory properties may help reduce redness and swelling in acne and even other skin conditions like eczema.