Squalane is a highly-refined botanical lipid with a molecular structure that is very similar to skin lipids. With a natural affinity to skin, this lightweight lipid absorbs easily without leaving a greasy residue. An effective emollient, Squalane has been traditionally used to help protect skin’s barrier and seal in moisture for softer, smoother skin.

Not only is Squalane good for your skin–it is actually naturally present in skin. Found plentifully in your skin’s sebum until your early 20s, Squalane begins to deplete with age which can leave skin prone to rough and dry areas. Using lotions, serums and moisturizers with Squalane can help replenish skin for a soft, smooth and healthy appearance.

While they are definitely related, Squalane and Squalene are not identical. Squalane is actually the hydrogenated form of Squalene.

When Squalene was first discovered in skin (it makes up about 13% of skin’s sebum), it began to be explored for use in cosmetics and skincare. However, Squalene is highly unstable and prone to oxidation–meaning it will eventually darken, become viscous and emit an odor.

The first production of Squalane from Squalene was reported in 1916. With many similar benefits for skin, Squalane is stable against heat and oxidation making it ideal for skincare formulations. It also has an imperceptible odor, clear color and is highly compatible with skin.

Overall, the key differences between Squalene and Squalane are:

Squalene

• Highly unstable
• Easily oxidizes

Squalane

• Stable against heat and oxidation
• Imperceptible odor and clear color

With emollient characteristics, Squalane is a beloved ingredient for smoothing and softening skin. Within our formulas, Squalane is known to:

• Help stabilize skin’s barrier
• Help skin maintain moisture
• Absorb easily without a greasy residue

Squalane & Anti-Aging

As a beloved Kiehl’s ingredient, we conducted testing on 100% Squalane and discovered new efficacious results. From our research, we determined Squalane is clinically-demonstrated to:

• Visibly reduce wrinkles around the eye area
• Visibly reduce crow’s feet
• Help improve skin’s firmness
• Help improve skin’s elasticity

Beyond moisturizing, these proven benefits of Squalane are part of why we love infusing it into our unique and efficacious formulas to promote smooth, firm, and younger-looking skin.

For decades, Squalane has been used in skincare products formulated to help moisturize skin. Squalane is found in a wide range of skincare formulas from lotions to body moisturizers to facial oils and serums.