Ingredient Encyclopedia · S
INCI: Squalane
Squalane is the perfect skincare oil for anyone who doesn’t like oils: it’s light as a feather, odorless, absorbs quickly, and leaves no greasy residue. Because it’s virtually identical to a component of the skin’s own sebum, squalane works well with practically every skin type—from dry to blemish-prone.
What is squalane?
The name leads to a small but important distinction: squalene (with an “e”) is a natural component of human sebum—so the skin is very familiar with this substance. However, squalene itself is unstable and oxidizes quickly. Squalane (with an “a”) is the hydrogenated, stable variant: it has the same nourishing properties but is long-lasting—and is therefore the standard in cosmetics.
In the past, squalane was problematically derived from shark liver—today, in reputable products, it comes from plant-based sources such as sugarcane or olives. On the INCI list, it is simply listed as “squalane” in both cases.
Effect: What’s Been Proven
Three out of five bars: As an emollient—that is, a skin-softening oil—squalane is well documented. It integrates into the skin’s lipid layer, smooths rough patches, alleviates tightness, and slows moisture loss. Its excellent tolerability is also widely documented. What’s missing are large-scale clinical studies on more far-reaching effects—so you should take anti-aging claims about squalane with a grain of salt. To sum it up fairly: an excellent moisturizing ingredient for almost any skincare routine, but not a miracle ingredient.
Usage & Combination
Squalane fits into your routine both in the morning and at night—used on its own as the final step, as a base in facial oils, or incorporated into creams. It’s considered non-comedogenic, meaning it doesn’t clog pores, and is therefore suitable for combination skin and skin prone to breakouts. Another plus: squalane virtually never causes irritation and is therefore often used as a gentle carrier base for stronger active ingredients like retinol.
Pairs well with
✓ Retinol & acids – squalane alleviates dryness and tightness
✓ Hyaluronic acid & polyglutamic acid – moisturize first, then finish with squalane
✓ Ceramides – together, they keep the skin barrier supple
Note
! Squalane locks in moisture but doesn’t provide any itself—so be sure to include a moisturizing step
! Follow the correct order: Apply oils after water-based serums
Squalane in the BONSANA lineup
Available in the Shop
Light Skincare with Squalane
Oils, creams, and serums with squalane—for every skincare routine, shipped from our warehouse in Switzerland.
Discover facial care →Frequently Asked Questions About Squalane
What’s the difference between squalane and squalene?
Squalene (with an “e”) is the unstable natural substance found in sebum that oxidizes quickly. Squalane (with an “a”) is the hydrogenated, stable version used in cosmetics—it has the same skincare benefits and a long shelf life.
Is squalane comedogenic?
No, squalane is considered non-comedogenic and does not clog pores. That’s why—unlike many rich plant oils—it’s also suitable for combination skin and skin prone to breakouts.
Is squalane vegan?
Modern squalane is derived from plant sources such as sugarcane or olives and is therefore vegan. Be sure to check the brand’s origin information—all squalane products in the BONSANA lineup are vegan.
When should you incorporate squalane into your skincare routine?
As an oil, squalane belongs at the end of your routine: after water-based serums, used undiluted as the final step, or mixed directly into your moisturizer. In the morning, it also works well under makeup because it absorbs quickly.
