Squalane in skincare
A stable lipid made from squalene.
What is squalane?
A stable lipid made from squalene. On the ingredient list, you can find the name Squalane. The dictionary uses both the common name and the INCI name, so you can compare the explanation with the packaging.
What does squalane do for skin and the product?
Provides glide and softens the surface without adding water.
Emollients make the surface more supple and affect how the product spreads. Lipids do not themselves add water, but some can also help retain moisture.
Squalane and squalene are different ingredients. The source may be plant or animal.
How to read the ingredient list
Look at the product's purpose and overall composition. Position on the list does not tell you the exact concentration used or how your skin will react. One substance can serve several purposes in the same product.
Questions about squalane
What does squalane do in skincare?
Provides glide and softens the surface without adding water.
What should I know about squalane?
Squalane and squalene are different ingredients. The source may be plant or animal.
Related ingredients
About sources and ingredient names
The European Commission's CosIng database is a reference for cosmetic ingredient names and functions. An entry does not constitute approval of all uses or evidence of a particular product effect.
DermNet: functions of moisturising care · DermNet: cosmetic formulations