Skincare Ingredient
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Squalane
In Skincare: Is Squalane Safe? Comedogenic Rating & Side Effects
Safety Information
Quick Insights
At a glance
- 01
Squalane helps to minimize water loss from the skin’s surface.
- 02
Squalane can improve the feel of skin by restoring suppleness.
- 03
Squalane contributes to a stronger skin barrier.
- 04
Due to its texture, squalane provides hydration without leaving a greasy feel.
Key Benefits
What Squalane does for your skin
Overview
Ingredient Profile
Role of Squalane
Active Cosmetic Mechanisms
HAIR CONDITIONING
Hair SoftenerImproves hair manageability, softness, and appearance
SCIENTIFIC ANALYSIS
// Evidence: Hair conditioning ingredients smooth the cuticle, reduce frizz, and add shine through cationic surfactants (behentrimonium chloride), silicones (dimethicone, amodimethicone), natural oils, and proteins. These deposit on negatively charged damaged sites, neutralizing charge, filling surface irregularities, and providing lubrication. Mechanism involves electrostatic attraction, film formation, and surface smoothing.
REFATTING
Lipid RestorerReplenishes natural oils and lipids removed during cleansing
SCIENTIFIC ANALYSIS
// Evidence: Refatting ingredients restore the lipid barrier depleted by surfactants through oils, lipids, and emollients that deposit during rinsing. These include plant oils, fatty alcohols, lanolin, and ceramides. The mechanism involves replenishing intercellular lipids and surface sebum, preventing the tight, dry feeling from harsh cleansing. Particularly important in syndets and gentle cleansers to maintain barrier integrity while cleansing.
SKIN CONDITIONING
Skin EnhancerMaintains skin in good condition and improves its feel
SCIENTIFIC ANALYSIS
// Evidence: Skin conditioning ingredients enhance appearance, texture, and health of skin through various mechanisms. This broad category encompasses emollients, humectants, occlusives, and other agents that improve skin feel, appearance, and function. May work by moisturizing, smoothing, softening, or protecting skin. Effects include improved tactile properties, enhanced barrier function, and better overall skin condition.
SKIN CONDITIONING - EMOLLIENT
Skin SoftenerSoftens and smooths skin by filling gaps between cells
SCIENTIFIC ANALYSIS
// Evidence: Emollient ingredients create smooth, soft skin by filling spaces between corneocytes in stratum corneum. These include esters (isopropyl palmitate), oils (jojoba, argan), fatty alcohols, and silicones. The mechanism involves spreading on skin surface, filling microscopic irregularities, and creating lubricious film. Effects are immediate tactile improvement and visual smoothing. Emolliency measured by spreading coefficient and skin feel assessments.
Products
containing Squalane
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References
Scientific sources
Cosmetics Ingredient Review, 2019, ePublication
ACS Open, July 2017, pages 3,989–3,996
Indian Journal of Dermatology, May-June 2016, pages 279-297
The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, June 2014, pages 25-32
Journal of Cosmetic Science, January-February 2013, pages 59-66
Advances in Food and Nutrition Research, 2012, pages 223-233
Molecules, January 2009, pages 540-554
Journal of Investigative Dermatology, November 2006, pages 2,430-2,437
Free Radical Research, April 2002, pages 471-477
Similar Ingredients
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Frequently Asked Questions
Squalane — common questions
What is Squalane in skincare?
Squalane is a skincare ingredient commonly used in cosmetic formulations.
What does Squalane do? / Functions of Squalane?
Common functions: HAIR CONDITIONING, REFATTING, SKIN CONDITIONING, SKIN CONDITIONING - EMOLLIENT.
What is the comedogenic rating of Squalane? / Is Squalane comedogenic?
Squalane has a comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5. A rating of 1 means it is unlikely to clog pores.
Does it clog pores?
Squalane is unlikely to clog pores (rating 1/5).
Is Squalane safe for skin?
Squalane has a safety rating of 1 out of 5. A rating of 1 means it is generally considered safe for most skin types. Note: Generally well-tolerated emollient; CIR and EWG note low hazard with no evidence of carcinogenicity or endocrine disruption in cosmetic use; rare individual allergy possible. Squalane has a comedogeni
Is Squalane good for sensitive skin?
Squalane has an irritancy rating of 1 out of 5. A rating of 1 means it is generally well-tolerated.
What are the side effects of Squalane in skincare?
Known considerations: Generally well-tolerated emollient; CIR and EWG note low hazard with no evidence of carcinogenicity or endocrine disruption in cosmetic use; rare individual allergy possible. Squalane has a comedogenicity rating of 1 and an irritancy rating of 1, indicating minimal risk of clogged pores or skin irritation.