10 best squalane products: Hydrating cleansers, oils and moisturisers

As consumers become more savvy and want to know the science behind the claims that their skincare products make, our interest in ingredients has grown, as has the market for products that highlight hero ingredients – such as vitamin C, hyaluronic acid and, now, squalane.

Squalene – with an E – is a lipid that occurs naturally in our bodies. It is produced by the sebaceous glands, which produce sebum, helping to hydrate and maintain our skin’s barrier.

As with many other naturally occurring fats, our bodies’ ability to produce squalene slows with age, so there are benefits to applying it topically.

Squalane – with an A – is a stable derivative of squalene (the latter oxidises and therefore loses its potency when exposed to air). It acts as a very effective moisturiser and emollient in skincare, helping to keep the skin barrier intact and protecting it from environmental damage.

Those with oily skin may be alarmed by the idea of applying something so closely related to sebum to the skin, but squalane can actually help regulate oil production, preventing your body producing an excess of it.

While its benefits will be appreciated by all, it is particularly good for those with dry skin, mature skin or skin conditions where the barrier is disrupted, such as eczema.

Aside from the human body, squalene is found in high concentrations in shark livers, and as a result shark liver oil has long been a common source of it in cosmetics. Most companies have now moved away from this due to ethical and environmental concerns, and instead derive their squalane from plant-based sources, usually olives or sugarcane. None of our recommended products contain squalene sourced from sharks.

Pure squalane is a lightweight, non-greasy oil, but it isn’t only available in this form. We’ve tested it in cleansers, masks and moisturisers, as well as oils, looking for texture and application experience, and instantaneous and long-term results.

You can trust our independent reviews. We may earn commission from some of the retailers, but we never allow this to influence selections, which are formed from real-world testing and expert advice. This revenue helps to fund journalism across The Independent.

Read more

11 best moisturisers for oily skin: Hydrating formulas that won’t clog your pores

13 best skincare products for teens that combat excess oil, blemishes and redness

10 best skincare products for your 20s and 30s to keep you looking youthful

The best skincare routine for acne, explained by experts

8 best moisturisers for sensitive skin that soothe and protect irritated complexions