Highly stable and biomimetic to skin's own squalene; non-comedogenic; plant-derived (olive/sugarcane) versions strongly preferred over shark-liver-derived squalane for sustainability and ethics
Function & Common Use
Emollient / Solvent
Emollient
Facial oils, moisturisers, serums, hair oils
Synthetic / Plant (olive / sugarcane) / Animal (shark - avoid)
Concentration Limits
No limit
No limit
No specific 21 CFR cosmetic limit identified in source checked; EU limit reference: 0.70
No specific MFDS limit identified in source checked; verify if ingredient is used in a Korean functional cosmetic category
Pregnancy: No specific restriction identified in source checked; standard cosmetic use
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Squalane safe to use in skincare?
Squalane has a Low concern rating from The Clean Sheet. Highly stable and biomimetic to skin's own squalene; non-comedogenic; plant-derived (olive/sugarcane) versions strongly preferred over shark-liver-derived squalane for sustainability and ethics
Is Squalane allowed in India?
Squalane is currently classified as "Permitted" under Indian cosmetics regulations. No concentration limit is specified for India.
What is Squalane used for in cosmetics?
Squalane functions as: Emollient / Solvent. It is commonly found in: Facial oils, moisturisers, serums, hair oils.
Regulatory Status
Cosmetic ingredient; standard TGA cosmetic framework applies; no therapeutic goods listing required unless therapeutic claims are made
Not specifically listed as restricted cosmetic ingredient in NHPID source checked; standard Health Canada cosmetic notification applies
Identifiers
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Reviewed by The Clean Sheet, with our verdict.