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Squalane

What Squalane is & what it does

A lightweight, highly stable emollient (often plant- or sugar-derived) that mimics the skin's own oils, softening and smoothing without greasiness. It absorbs cleanly, reinforces the barrier, and suits most skin types.

What is Squalane and what does it do in sunscreen?

Squalane is a lightweight, very stable emollient that closely mimics the skin's own oils, so it softens and smooths without feeling greasy. It absorbs cleanly, helps reinforce the skin barrier, and suits most skin types. In a sunscreen it improves slip and skin feel while adding a touch of conditioning.

Is Squalane safe?

Yes. Squalane is a well-tolerated, non-irritating emollient that is gentle enough for most skin types, including sensitive skin. Because it mirrors oils the skin already makes, it tends to feel familiar and comfortable. It is one of the more reliably mild moisturizing ingredients you will see in a formula.

Does Squalane clog pores?

Generally no. Squalane is widely regarded as low on the comedogenicity scale and is a popular choice precisely because it is lightweight and absorbs cleanly. It is far less likely to clog pores than heavier oils or butters, which makes it a common pick for oilier and acne-prone skin.

Is Squalane vegan?

It can be. Modern Squalane is most often derived from plants such as sugarcane or olives, which makes those versions suitable for vegan formulas. Historically some squalane came from animal sources, so a brand that markets a product as vegan will be using a plant or sugar-derived grade. Either source gives the same lightweight emollient.

What is the difference between Squalane and Squalene?

Squalane is the stable, hydrogenated version of squalene, an oil the skin naturally produces. Squalene on its own oxidizes quickly, while Squalane is shelf-stable and resistant to going off, which is why formulas use the Squalane form. The one-letter spelling difference marks that small but important chemical change.

Sunscreens with Squalane

We rate 712 sunscreens that contain it, showing the top 10 by overall score:

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