Squalane

Category: Emollient

Brief description: A stable, saturated hydrocarbon derived from plant or animal sources; mimics skin's natural sebum and has a lightweight texture.

Benefits: Moisturizes, prevents transepidermal water loss, non-comedogenic, and antioxidant properties.

Skin type suitability/concerns: Suitable for all skin types, including oily and acne-prone skin.

Target audience: All age groups and those with sensitive, oily, or acne-prone skin.

Chemical composition: A saturated hydrocarbon with 30 carbon atoms.

Physical aspect: Clear, colorless, and odorless liquid.

Compatibility: Mixes well with other oils, butters, and ingredients in cosmetic formulations.

Concentration: Typically used at 1-10% in formulations.

Side effects/adverse reactions: Generally well-tolerated; may cause an allergic reaction in rare cases.

Regulatory status: No major restrictions.

Sustainability/ethical considerations: Opt for plant-derived squalane, as animal-derived sources (typically from shark liver oil) raise ethical and sustainability concerns.