Squalene
Squalene — a natural lipid produced by the skin's sebaceous glands and a component of the skin's protective surface oils. Because it oxidizes easily in its natural form, skincare products typically use its more stable derivative, squalane.
Key points
- Squalene is naturally present in human sebum and helps make up the skin's surface lipid layer.
- It is an unsaturated compound, which makes it prone to oxidation and less stable in products.
- Natural squalene production tends to decline with age.
- To improve stability, brands usually convert squalene into squalane for topical formulations.
Frequently asked
Why do most products use squalane instead of squalene?
Squalene oxidizes quickly, so it is hydrogenated into squalane, a more stable form that resists spoiling and performs better in products.
Where does squalene come from?
Squalene occurs naturally in human skin oil and is also found in plant sources such as olives and in some marine sources.
Related topics
This is a foundational entry in the SYNC Skin Encyclopedia and is expanded over time. Educational information only — not medical advice.
