Unsaturated triterpene; endogenous in sebum (~12%); skin-compatible; oxidises readily on air exposure forming oxidised squalene, comedogenic concern; shark-derived NOT vegan; plant-derived (olive/amaranth) vegan and preferred; note: squalane (hydrogenated) is more stable, squalene vs. squalane distinction important for claims
Function & Common Use
Emollient / Antioxidant
Emollient
Facial oils moisturisers (plant-sourced preferred)
Animal (shark liver) / Vegetable (olive/amaranth)
Concentration Limits
No limit
No limit
No specific 21 CFR cosmetic limit identified in source checked
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 Squalene safe to use in skincare?
Squalene has a Medium concern rating. Unsaturated triterpene; endogenous in sebum (~12%); skin-compatible; oxidises readily on air exposure forming oxidised squalene, comedogenic concern; shark-derived NOT vegan; plant-derived (olive/amaranth) vegan and preferred; note: squalane (hydrogenated) is more stable, squalene vs. squalane distinction important for claims
Is Squalene allowed in India?
Squalene is currently classified as "Permitted" under Indian cosmetics regulations. No concentration limit is specified for India.
What is Squalene used for in cosmetics?
Squalene functions as: Emollient / Antioxidant. It is commonly found in: Facial oils moisturisers (plant-sourced preferred).
Regulatory Status
Identifiers
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