In the ever-evolving landscape of skincare formulation, selecting the right emollients can make the difference between a good product and an exceptional one. Among the most effective and versatile ingredients available today is squalane—a lightweight, highly stable lipid that offers exceptional skin benefits without compromising formulation aesthetics.

Once derived from shark liver oil, squalane is now ethically sourced from plant-based materials such as sugarcane and olives, making it a perfect fit for modern formulations prioritizing sustainability, performance, and skin compatibility.

Whether you’re an established beauty entrepreneur or a home-based formulator developing small-batch products, understanding how to incorporate squalane effectively can elevate the quality, stability, and market appeal of your formulations.

What Is Squalane?

First, let’s clear the air:

Squalene (with an “e”) is a naturally occurring lipid in our skin’s sebum,  it is unstable and oxidizes easily. Squalane (with an “a”), on the other hand, is the hydrogenated, shelf-stable version—and the one we love in skincare and would be discussing in this post.

Squalane is the hydrogenated derivative of squalene, a lipid naturally found in human sebum. While squalene is biologically important, it is highly unstable and prone to oxidation. Squalane, in contrast, is non-comedogenic, highly stable, and has an extended shelf life, making it a superior choice for cosmetic formulations.

Most cosmetic grade squalane used today is derived from renewable plant sources, especially sugarcane (a source known for its purity and ecological sustainability) and olive oil, making it suitable for clean beauty formulations and eco-conscious brands.

Why Squalane Deserves a Place in Your Formulation Toolkit

• Excellent Skin Compatibility

Squalane closely mimics the skin’s own lipids, making it highly biocompatible and well tolerated across all skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone skin. This property makes it a valuable addition in formulations aimed at barrier repair, hydration, and gentle skincare routines.

• Lightweight Yet Nourishing

One of squalane’s most attractive attributes is its silky, non-greasy texture. It delivers a smooth skin feel that absorbs quickly, enhancing product sensorial feel—especially in facial oils, serums, emulsions, and oil cleansers. This allows you to create high-performance products that feel elegant and luxurious on application.

• Highly Stable and Non-Oxidizing

Compared to traditional plant oils, squalane is oxidation-resistant, meaning your formulas will have improved shelf stability and reduced risk of rancidity. This is particularly important for brands that ship nationwide or store products for longer periods before sale.

• Supports the Skin Barrier

Squalane functions as an effective occlusive and emollient, helping to prevent trans epidermal water loss (TEWL) and protect the skin’s lipid barrier. Its moisture-retaining properties make it an excellent choice for hydrating and restorative skincare.

Formulating with Squalane: Best Practices

For skincare makers and formulators looking to integrate squalane effectively, here are key guidelines:

• Recommended Usage Levels: Typically, 1–10%. For anhydrous systems such as facial oils or balms, it can be used at higher percentages.
• Formulation Types: Ideal for emulsions, serums, lotions, facial oils, balms, body oils, and baby skincare.
• Stability: Squalane is heat-stable and can be added during the oil phase of emulsions.
• Compatibility: Works well with active ingredients like niacinamide, vitamin C, retinol, and hyaluronic acid for improved performance and skin feel.

Communicating the Value of Squalane to Your Customers

If you’re selling finished skincare products, highlighting the benefits of squalane in your product messaging can help you stand out in a crowded market:

• “Derived from plant-based sources, squalane helps protect the skin barrier while delivering weightless hydration.”
• “A high-performance emollient that mimics the skin’s natural oils without the greasy residue.”
• “Clean, stable, and effective, squalane supports sensitive skin without clogging pores.”

Positioning your products with scientifically backed, ethically sourced ingredients builds trust and communicates the quality of your brand.

Final Thoughts: A Must-Have for Modern Skincare Formulators

Whether you’re formulating for hydration, barrier repair, or a luxurious skin finish, squalane offers remarkable versatility and efficacy. Its stability, lightweight texture, and skin-mimicking benefits make it an essential emollient in any skincare formulator’s repertoire.

At Skinfoodie, we offer high-quality, plant-derived squalane and a range of functional cosmetic ingredients trusted by indie brands, professional formulators, and serious DIYers.

Explore Squalane & More on Skinfoodie

Visit skinfoodie.com.ng to shop plant-based squalane and discover ingredients that help you create safer, more effective skincare products—whether you’re crafting in a studio, lab, or kitchen.