What Is Squalane & How Does It Hydrate Skin?

Monderma

Oliver Belcher

13 Jun 2025

Hydrogenated squalene forms squalane
Stable structure prevents oxidation
Light texture suits many skin types
Non comedogenic for acne prone care
Hydration support available at Monderma

Squalane is growing in popularity, and many people recognise its gentle texture when looking for hydration that feels comfortable across changing skin needs [1].

In this article we explain how squalane differs from squalene, how it supports hydration, and why it suits concerns such as acne, dry skin, and oily skin.

Understanding Squalane & Squalene

Squalane is the hydrogenated form of squalene, a lipid that occurs naturally within human sebum and helps maintain skin moisture [1]. Squalene is vital, although it oxidises quickly [2].

Hydrogenation stabilises squalene and creates squalane, which remains shelf friendly, lightweight, and less likely to clog pores. This stability supports its role across skincare [1,3].

Squalene & Squalane Compared

Feature	Squalene
Source	Naturally in skin, shark liver, plants
Stability	Unstable, oxidises quickly
Skincare Use	Limited due to oxidation

Feature	Squalane
Source	Hydrogenated from squalene
Stability	Stable with a long shelf life
Skincare Use	Used widely in oils and cleansers

Table 1: Differences between squalene and squalane

Key Benefits Of Squalane

Squalane oil offers a light, non greasy texture that suits all skin types. It hydrates, supports barrier comfort, and remains suitable for acne prone and oily skin [4,5].

Deep Hydration & Comfort

Squalane mimics natural moisturising factors and absorbs smoothly without heaviness [4,5]. It acts as an emollient that supports hydration and comfort for dry skin or sensitive types [1,3].

Support For Acne Prone Skin

Squalane is non comedogenic, meaning it does not clog pores. Emollients can support skin barrier function without worsening acne, and squalane is generally suitable for sensitive skin [4,5].

Balancing Moisture Levels

Although direct evidence for sebum regulation is limited, squalane integrates well with skin lipids and helps maintain balanced moisture in combination or oily skin types [4,5].

Squalane Benefit Summary

Benefit	Description
Deep Hydration	Hydrates without greasiness
Non Comedogenic	Supports barrier comfort without clogging pores
Moisture Balance	Helps maintain balanced hydration levels

Table 2: Key squalane benefits

Versatile Uses In Skincare

Squalane can act as a daily moisturiser, a gentle cleanser, or a supportive step alongside other ingredients. Squalane cleansers lift impurities and makeup while maintaining hydration [3].

People often use squalane to reduce dryness on hair ends, add comfort beneath makeup, or blend into routines for sensitive skin. Its gentle nature makes it adaptable.

Conclusion

Squalane provides lightweight hydration while helping maintain balanced oil levels, making it suitable for dry, oily, and acne prone skin. Its gentle texture and stability support smooth, comfortable skin without clogging pores.

If you would like personalised skincare that complements the benefits of squalane for your own skin type, you can explore a tailored formula through Monderma.

References

Content is for informational purposes only. Monderma treatments are prescribed following consultation. Results and timeframes can vary. Use as directed by your prescriber.