In diesem Artikel
Squalane is one of the few facial oils you barely feel. It is thin, has no smell, and sinks in within a minute without leaving any shine. That is because squalene, the substance squalane is made from, also occurs naturally in skin: roughly a tenth of your own skin oil is squalene. This guide covers what squalane oil is and how to use it.
What is the difference between squalene and squalane?
One letter, and it matters. Squalene, with an "e", is the natural lipid, and it oxidises quickly in contact with air. Squalane, with an "a", is the same molecule after hydrogenation. That step makes it stable, so it does not go rancid and keeps well without a preservative.
Where does plant-based squalane come from?
Historically squalene was taken from shark liver. Plant-derived squalane is made instead from olive or sugarcane and then hydrogenated. Ours is plant-derived. If a label does not say which source it uses, it is worth asking.
What does squalane feel like?
Almost like nothing. It spreads thin, absorbs within about a minute and leaves no film. If every oil you have tried so far felt greasy, this is the one that does not.
What do people use squalane oil for?
- as the last step in a facial routine, over a serum or cream
- as a base under make-up, because it leaves no layer
- on skin that gets shiny quickly but still feels dry
- around the eyes, on the lips and on cuticles
- to thin a heavier oil down into something that sinks in fast
How do you use it on the face?
Two or three drops on clean skin, or over your cream. Warm them briefly between the fingertips and press them in. Because it has no smell of its own, it combines with practically any other product.
Does squalane block pores?
It is generally described as non-comedogenic, which fits its behaviour: it is thin, it does not sit on the surface, and it has no waxy fraction. As always, that is a general statement rather than a promise about your skin, so try it on a small area first.
Can you mix squalane with other oils?
Yes, and it is one of the most useful oils to mix with, precisely because it disappears. Adding squalane to a thick oil makes the blend spread and absorb faster without changing the smell.
Does squalane go off?
Much more slowly than a cold-pressed plant oil. Hydrogenation is what buys that stability. Keep it closed and out of direct sunlight and it will outlast most things on your shelf.
What is in Aza Natural's squalane?
Plant-based squalane, one hundred per cent. No fragrance, no colourant, no preservative. Other light facial oils are in the facial oils section.
