Squalene is a naturally occurring lipid, specifically a hydrocarbon, renowned for its significant role in skincare due to its exceptional moisturizing properties. Historically, squalene has been utilized in various cosmetic formulations, including creams, oils, and body washes, as a natural remedy for dry and aging skin. Its longstanding presence in the skincare industry is attributed to its unique ability to enhance skin hydration and elasticity.

Chemically, squalene is an unsaturated oil characterized by a structure of 30 carbon atoms and six double bonds. This configuration allows it to closely mimic the natural oils produced by human skin, and it is precisely this structural affinity that facilitates its seamless integration with the skin’s lipid barrier, thereby enhancing hydration and elasticity.

The historic use of squalene in cosmetics, however, has not been free of controversy, as the compound was at one point predominantly sourced from shark liver oil, where it is naturally abundant. Over time, ethical and sustainability concerns have prompted a shift towards plant-based alternatives, and today, the squalene used in cosmetics is almost exclusively commonly derived from olives, amaranth seeds, rice bran, and wheat germ, offering a sustainable and cruelty-free production method. When these plant-based sources are used, extraction techniques such as cold pressing or solvent extraction are employed to preserve the oil’s integrity and efficacy. Additionally, advancements in biotechnology have enabled the synthesis of squalene through fermentation processes using yeast or bacteria, further expanding its availability in the cosmetics industry and beyond.

Squalene’s connection to skincare is deeply rooted in its ability to moisturize and protect. As a key component of human sebum, it naturally aids in maintaining skin suppleness and hydration. Its emollient properties allow it to penetrate the skin effortlessly, providing a lightweight, non-greasy layer of moisture. Scientific research has demonstrated that squalene significantly improves skin hydration, reduces the appearance of fine lines, and enhances overall skin texture. This makes it particularly beneficial for individuals with dry or sensitive skin, as well as those seeking to mitigate the signs of aging.

Beyond its moisturizing capabilities, squalene possesses antioxidant properties that offer additional protection against environmental stressors such as UV radiation and pollution, which can accelerate skin aging. By neutralizing free radicals, squalene helps maintain the skin’s youthful appearance and resilience.

As we delve further into the potential of squalene, subsequent sections will explore its diverse benefits and applications in skincare. From its role in anti-aging formulations to its soothing effects on irritated skin, squalene remains an indispensable ingredient in contemporary skincare regimens. This exploration will reveal how squalene can transform and enhance your skincare routine, solidifying its status as a natural wonder in the field of dermatology.

A 2021 study by Panagoula et al. goes beyond the moisturizing and protective properties of squalene to underscore the substance’s utility as an excipient or carrier for other lipids, stating that, when compared to 18 other different natural oils, “squalene could form the most stable emulsions”, making it a preferred choice for formulations. Furthermore, they state that squalene has also shown great potential as a carrier for drugs in the treatment of psoriasis thanks to its excellent skin penetration properties5. Perhaps more interestingly, the researcher’s also point out that other common cosmetic ingredients’ active properties, such as organ oil’s antioxidant and anti-aging effects, are due in part to their “relatively high amounts of squalene and unsaturated fatty acids”(5).

Other papers, such as Basim et al.’s 2024 work examining squalene’s use in vaccine production and skincare, highlight its ability to maintain skin health, protect against UV radiation, and enhance skin barrier function4. The study discusses squalene’s crucial role as a precursor in the synthesis of cholesterol, steroid hormones, and vitamins in humans and animals, all of which are contributing factors to its ability to moisturize and protect the skin at both a surface level and at depth.

Finally, regarding the potential ethical concerns of traditional squalene production (derived from shark liver oil), we can return to Shalu et al.’s 2024 study, where the team examine some fascinating developments in the production of squalene. Given the surge in demand for sustainable and cruelty-free cosmetics, biotechnological advancements in squalene production have led to breakthroughs using microorganisms like yeasts that can reduce environmental impact while meeting commercial needs through efficient and eco-friendly production methods1. This area is also explored by Yarkent and Oncel (2021), who conclude that “microalgae are a good candidate as squalene producers, with easily cultivation potential”/.

Age Ranges:

Middle-Aged or Older Adults: To combat the natural decline of squalene production in the skin, enhancing moisture and elasticity, and for its anti-aging benefits, reducing fine lines and improving skin texture.

Life Stages:
Post-Menopausal Women: To address increased dryness and loss of skin elasticity.
Pregnant or Postpartum Women: For soothing and moisturizing sensitive skin.

Skin Types:
Dry Skin: To provide deep hydration and improve skin suppleness.
Sensitive Skin: For its gentle, non-irritating properties that help soothe and protect.
Aging Skin: To reduce the appearance of fine lines and improve overall texture.

Skin Concerns:
Atopic Dermatitis: For its moisturizing and anti-inflammatory benefits.
Psoriasis: As a carrier for other treatments due to its excellent skin penetration.

Lifestyle Factors:
Urban Dwellers: To protect against pollution and environmental damage.
Outdoor Enthusiasts: For protection against UV radiation and oxidative stress.