Buh-Bye, Fine Lines! These 20 Squalane Skincare Products Are All You Need for a Strong Skin Barrier

Over the past few months alone, it's safe to say I've seen my fair share of skincare ingredients rise and fall in popularity. As a beauty editor and someone who frequents major social media platforms like it's my job (TikTok, for example, provides nonstop inspiration for all things skincare), I have a knack for recognizing these trending ingredients before the products that contain them sell out at Sephora, Ulta, and beyond. In fact, it's almost second nature for me to jot down an ingredient in my iPhone's Notes app in case I want to write a deep-dive story on it later.

Below, I'm zeroing in on one of the biggest skincare essentials occupying my For You page lately: squalane. While the use of squalane in skincare is nothing new, it certainly seems to have piqued the interest of many who are on the hunt for fast-working products that can promote healthy, youthful-looking skin. Keep scrolling to see everything I found out about squalane and which products infused with the ingredient are actually worth your time and money.

Danielle Jinadu with a glowing, even-toned complexion

(Image credit: @daniellejinadu)

What Is Squalane?

So, what is squalane, and why is it experiencing a renaissance across the skincare space as a superstar ingredient? We tapped two skincare experts to break it down. "Squalane is a plant-derived, lightweight oil that mimics the skin's natural sebum, making it an ideal hydrator and barrier protector. It locks in moisture, prevents water loss, and enhances overall skin hydration," explains Courtney Allen, FNP-C, founder of cosmetic dermatology clinic Canvas Skin. "Squalane also boasts antioxidant properties, reducing inflammation and shielding the skin from environmental damage caused by free radicals." It's also noncomedogenic, making it ideal for use on all skin types (including sensitive and acne-prone skin).

To fully reap the benefits of using squalane-infused skincare in your well-rounded skincare routine, experts tell us that consistency and smart application is key. "As a moisturizing oil, it’s best used to lock in hydration after applying water-based serums or a lightweight moisturizer," adds Indie Lee, skin expert and founder of her namesake skincare brand. Lee highlights the multitasking product as one of her favorites, sharing that she likes to use it on her face but that's it's also a go-to for softening elbows, cuticles, and rough patches. She also uses it as a beauty hack by mixing a drop of it into concealer when a formula feels too thick and to sooth the skin after getting waxed.

Allen also tells us that the popular skincare ingredient reinforces the skin's natural lipid barrier by promoting a healthier, smoother complexion while also preventing dryness and irritation. The best part about squalane? It's extremely versatile and easy to add into your skincare routine since it can be found in many moisturizers, serums, and facial oils. "Whether used as a standalone product or as part of a formulation in other skincare products, squalane delivers long-lasting hydration without feeling greasy—a must-have for a healthy, balanced complexion," adds Lee. So if you've been wondering if squalane skincare is worth the investment, take this as your sign to finally stock up.

How Should Squalane Be Used?

Using squalane skincare starts with understanding which products will best serve your goals. For the best results, Allen recommends applying squalane products following cleansing and toning to seal in hydration. "It can be used morning or night, either alone or layered under sunscreen during the day and heavier moisturizers in the evening," she says. Its lightweight texture and formula makes it a great choice for oily and acne-prone skin types, while its soothing and hydrating properties are ideal for use with dry, sensitive, and mature skin types.

The Best Squalane Skincare Products, Listed

The Best Squalane Skincare Products

1. Oils

2. Serums

Dana Ozime with dewy, sun-kissed skin

(Image credit: @danaozime)

3. Moisturizers

4. Masks

Maya Thomas
Associate Beauty Editor

Maya Thomas is Who What Wear's Associate Beauty Editor based in New York City. Her strong love for all things beauty and fashion stems from a strong childhood interest in the fine arts. During a gap year spent in Paris studying the history of French fashion, she shifted her focus to English literature and journalism as a student at Loyola Marymount University with the goal of one day pursuing a career in fashion. After graduating in May 2021, Maya began freelancing for Parade.com as a contributing commerce writer while also building a following on her lifestyle blog, Itsmayalala.com. When she's not writing, Maya spends her free time catching up on reading, perusing art galleries, and enjoying a night out at the ballet every now and then.