Perhydrosqualene (SQUALANE)
Commonly Found In
Overview
SQUALANE is a cosmetic ingredient primarily used for EMOLLIENT and SKIN CONDITIONING. It is the fully saturated, stable form of squalene that provides exceptional moisturizing, antioxidant, and UV-protective properties without oxidation concerns.
Also known as: Squalane, Perhydrosqualene, Dodecahydrosqualene, Phytosqualane (plant-derived)
Key Benefits
Studies suggest that squalane closely mimics the skin's own sebum lipid profile, which may help it integrate efficiently into the lipid barrier and support moisturization. Clinical evidence indicates it may reduce transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and improve skin softness and suppleness, with a favorable tolerability profile across skin types.
Supporting Research
- β’ Huang et al. (2009) β squalane demonstrated occlusive and emollient properties comparable to other plant-derived oils in skin hydration studies (Int J Cosmet Sci)
Skin Compatibility Ratings
Comedogenic Rating
Rated 1 (very low); generally considered non-comedogenic in use. Plant-derived squalane is widely used in formulations for acne-prone skin.
Source: Kligman & Mills comedogenicity scale; Fulton comedogenicity testing
Irritancy Rating
Non-irritating; considered among the safest emollients for sensitive and reactive skin types
Source: CIR Expert Panel; clinical literature
Typical Use Concentration
Range
1β100%
Optimal
3β10% in formulations; 100% as a facial oil
CIR safety assessment covers use at 10.1% to >50% in 294 formulations. Used in a wide range of concentrations from <1% in water-based formulations to 100% as a pure facial oil.
Works Well With / Avoid
Works Well With
Broad compatibility as a carrier and emollient. Enhances penetration and bioavailability of co-formulated actives. Suitable for oil-free and oil-based formulations. Stable and resistant to oxidation unlike squalene.
Commonly Found In
Global Regulation Summary
Overview of current status across major international markets.
Detailed Regional Status
| Region | Status | Max Conc. | Conditions | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| πͺπΊ EU | Unknown | - | - | Official β |
| πΊπΈ USA | Unknown | - | - | Official β |
| π―π΅ Japan | Unknown | - | - | Official β |
| π°π· Korea | Unknown | - | - | Official β |
| π¬π§ UK | Unknown | - | - | Official β |
π Why Regulations Differ
Squalane is consistently permitted across all major markets without specific concentration restrictions. Plant-derived sourcing (from olive oil or sugarcane via fermentation) has resolved the sustainability concerns previously associated with shark-derived squalene. No significant regulatory distinctions exist between markets.
Regulation Analysis
Category Comparison
There are 6 ingredients in the EMOLLIENT category.
πΏ Natural Sources
Historically from deep-sea shark liver oil (96% squalene content, particularly centrophorus artomarginatus living 600-1000m deep). Plant sources: olive oil (0.8-13 g/kg or 200-7,500 mg/kg depending on cultivar), amaranth seed, sugarcane, rice bran, wheat germ. Squalane is the hydrogenated form, not naturally abundant.
π How It's Made
Produced by hydrogenation of squalene, converting six double bonds to single bonds, creating fully saturated C30H62 molecule. This process makes it odorless, softer, thinner, more skin-friendly, and oxidation-resistant. Modern production uses plant-based squalene from olive oil or biotechnology (genetically modified yeast/bacteria) for sustainability, replacing shark-derived sources.
π Uses in Cosmetics
Used at 10.1 to >50% in 294 cosmetic formulations. Provides moisturizing, antioxidant, UV-protective properties. Enhances delivery of bioactive molecules, extends product shelf life. More stable than squalene due to lack of double bonds. Found in facial oils, moisturizers, serums, and anti-aging products. Non-comedogenic, suitable for all skin types.
π¬ Other Applications
Pharmaceutical applications: vaccine adjuvant (MF59 by Novartis, AS03 by GlaxoSmithKline) to boost immune response and reduce antigen amount needed. Enables solubilization and slow release of lipophilic drugs. Used in vaccines for influenza, tuberculosis, malaria, HIV, schistosomiasis, herpes zoster. Drug delivery systems for increased bioavailability and sustained action.
π‘ Fun Facts
- β’ Squalene discovered in 1906 by Japanese researcher Mitsumaru Tsujimoto from shark liver oil, named from Latin 'squalus' (shark). Chemical formula clarified in 1931 by Professor Kahler, University of Zurich
- β’ Deep-sea sharks store 96% squalene in their liver to maintain buoyancy in waters 600-1000m deep without sunlight
- β’ Shift from shark to plant/biotech sources driven by sustainability - estimated 3 million deep-sea sharks were killed annually for cosmetic squalene before alternatives emerged
Related Skin Concerns
Data Sources
- β’ CIR Expert Panel report on squalane and squalene
- β’ EU CosIng database
- β’ Huang et al., Int J Cosmet Sci 2009
- β’ Japan MHLW cosmetic ingredient database
Last data verification: 2026-04-12
Related Ingredients
Squalene
SQUALENE
Ξ±-Arbutin
ALPHA-ARBUTIN
Beta-Arbutin
ARBUTIN
Nonanedioic Acid
AZELAIC ACID
CANNABIDIOL - DERIVED FROM EXTRACT OR TINCTURE OR RESIN OF CANNABIS
CANNABIDIOL - SYNTHETICALLY PRODUCED
Learn More
Frequently Asked Questions
What is SQUALANE used for in cosmetics?
SQUALANE is primarily used for emollient in cosmetic products. It also serves as skin conditioning, antioxidant. The ingredient is commonly found in moisturizers and skin softening products.
Which countries regulate SQUALANE?
SQUALANE is approved for cosmetic use in all major markets: , with no significant restrictions.
Where can I find official regulation information about SQUALANE?
Official information about SQUALANE regulations can be found on government websites: EU CosIng database, US FDA Cosmetics page, Japan MHLW cosmetics standards, UK Government cosmetics guidance, and Korea MFDS. Always verify regulatory status with these official sources before making formulation decisions.
Disclaimer
The information on this website is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. While we strive for accuracy based on official government databases, cosmetic regulations change frequently. Always consult with a qualified professional or refer to the latest official regulatory documents for compliance. We are not responsible for any actions taken based on the information provided here.