Squalane is a lightweight, stable oil that closely resembles squalene, an oil your skin produces naturally. Because it's so similar to your skin's own oils, it sinks in fast and feels almost weightless. That's why it's one of the most popular ingredients in face oils.
Squalane vs squalene: what's the difference?
Squalene (with an "e") is found in your skin's natural oils, but it goes off quickly when exposed to air. Squalane (with an "a") is a processed, more stable version. It keeps for much longer in a bottle, which makes it far more useful in skincare.
Where does squalane come from?
It used to come mainly from shark liver. Today most cosmetic squalane is plant-derived, usually from olives or sugarcane. The squalane in Universal Oil is olive-derived.
What does squalane do for skin?
- Adds light moisture without a heavy or greasy feel
- Helps soften dry, tight skin
- Spreads easily, so a little goes a long way
- Has almost no smell, which makes it ideal for fragrance free products
Is squalane good for oily skin?
Squalane is lightweight and generally well tolerated by oilier skin, which is why it turns up in so many face oils. Everyone's skin is different, so patch test anything new and see how your skin responds.
Is squalane good for hair?
Yes. A drop or two smooths dry ends and adds shine without weighing hair down.
How do you use a squalane face oil?
Press 2–3 drops into clean, damp skin as the last step of your routine. You can use it on its own or on top of moisturiser.
Squalane is the first ingredient in Universal Oil, our squalane face oil for face, body, hair and beard. It's blended with rosehip, chia and sea buckthorn oils. See what each ingredient does.
Quick answers
Is squalane an oil?
Yes. It's a light, skin-similar oil that absorbs quickly.
Is squalane vegan?
Plant-derived squalane, from olives or sugarcane, is. Check the source on the label.
Can I use squalane every day?
Yes. It's gentle enough for daily use, morning or night.