100% Squalane Oil
100% Squalane Oil
Product Description
Product overview
A weightless, multitasking pure squalane oil derived from sustainable sugarcane that rapidly hydrates from head to toe. Bioidentical to your skin's natural moisture, this single-ingredient powerhouse locks in hydration, boosts absorption of other actives, and promotes microbiome diversity for healthier-looking skin.
Bioidentical Hydration
Mimics your skin's natural squalene for instant, deep moisture that feels weightless and natural.
Texture & feel
SENSORYBioidentical Hydration
Mimics your skin's natural squalene for instant, deep moisture that feels weightless and natural.
Boosts Active Absorption
Helps other skincare ingredients penetrate more deeply and work more effectively.
Sustainable Sourcing
Derived from renewable sugarcane, saving 2 million sharks per year from liver harvesting.
Microbiome Support
Promotes microbiome diversity for healthier, more resilient skin over time.
Safety & compatibility
SAFE100% squalane contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, or any ingredients contraindicated during pregnancy. Safe for use throughout pregnancy and breastfeeding (avoid applying to areas baby's mouth contacts).
Sugarcane-derived squalane is a hydrocarbon, not a fatty acid. It cannot be metabolized by Malassezia yeast, making it one of the safest oils for fungal acne-prone skin.
Rated 0-1 on the comedogenic scale. Pure squalane does not clog pores and is suitable for all skin types including acne-prone skin.
Hypoallergenic and dermatologist tested. Research shows squalane is non-irritating even at 100% concentration. Ideal for reactive and sensitive skin types.
Can be layered with retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, BHAs, and niacinamide without any interactions or irritation concerns.
Suitable for all ages from babies to elderly. Biossance states it is safe for all ages.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSSqualane 100%Proven
A saturated hydrocarbon that mimics squalene, a natural component of human sebum. Derived from sustainable Brazilian sugarcane through bio-fermentation, this stable, pure form provides exceptional moisturizing properties without oxidation concerns.
- Mechanism: Creates a protective barrier that prevents transepidermal water loss (TEWL) while allowing skin to breathe
- Research: Studies show squalane is non-irritating even at 100% concentration (Cosmetic Ingredient Review)
- Bioidentical: Mirrors the squalene naturally produced by your skin, which decreases with age after mid-20s
- Stability: Hydrogenated form has a long shelf life and won't oxidize like squalene
1 ingredient
Squalane
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply as the last step to lock in all previous products. For oily skin, apply to damp skin. Can also be mixed with moisturizer or used alone.
How to use
HOW TO USEFor Face
Warm 2-3 drops between palms. Pat gently onto face, neck, and décolleté after serums and moisturizer. For oily skin, apply to damp skin for lighter absorption.
For Body
Massage a few pumps onto skin immediately after showering while skin is still damp. Focus on dry areas like elbows, knees, and heels.
For Hair
Warm a small amount between hands and smooth through dry or wet hair to add shine and tame flyaways, split ends, and frizz. Can also be used as a scalp treatment.
For Lips
Apply a thin layer to lips to combat dryness and prep for color. Works great as an overnight lip treatment.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You want a single multi-purpose oil for face, body, and hair
- You have dry, dehydrated, or aging skin
- You need a fungal acne-safe moisturizing option
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding and want safe hydration
- You have sensitive or reactive skin
- You want to boost absorption of other skincare products
- You prefer clean, sustainable beauty products
- You want a fragrance-free option
Consider alternatives if:
- You're looking for additional active ingredients like vitamin C or retinol
- You prefer a dropper over a pump dispenser
- You're on a strict budget (more affordable dupes exist)
- You want a scented oil experience
- You need a mattifying finish (this has a dewy finish)
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESLightweight and fast-absorbing. Apply to damp skin for non-greasy hydration. Helps balance oil production without clogging pores.
Provides deep, lasting hydration and locks in moisture. Can be layered generously or mixed with moisturizer for extra nourishment.
Balances well across different face zones. Use sparingly on T-zone and more generously on dry cheeks.
Hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, and non-irritating. Single ingredient formula minimizes risk of reactions.
Non-comedogenic (rating 0) and fungal acne safe. Won't clog pores or feed Malassezia yeast.
Replenishes squalene that skin loses with age. Promotes cell renewal and improves skin elasticity.
Results timeline
WEEK 5+Instant Hydration
Skin feels instantly hydrated, soft, and smooth. Absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy residue. Provides immediate comfort to dry, tight skin.
95% noticed instant hydrationImproved Softness
Skin appears softer and smoother. Rough patches begin to improve. Overall texture feels more refined and supple.
95% noticed softer skinEnhanced Nourishment
Skin is noticeably more nourished and hydrated. Moisture barrier is strengthened. Dullness begins to diminish.
93% noticed improved hydrationCell Renewal Boost
Increased cell renewal rate accelerates skin turnover by 5 days compared to untreated skin. Skin looks healthier and more radiant.
100% showed increased cell renewalRatings by platform
2K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Ultra-lightweight and fast-absorbing
- Versatile: works on face, body, hair, and lips
- Single, pure ingredient with no additives
- Safe for all skin types including sensitive
- Fungal acne and pregnancy safe
- Sustainable, shark-friendly sourcing
- Large 100ml bottle lasts a long time
- Convenient pump dispenser
- No fragrance or irritating ingredients
- Visible results backed by clinical studies
Criticized
- Higher price point than drugstore alternatives
- Pump can dispense too much product
- No additional active ingredients
- Dewy finish may not suit those wanting matte
- Plastic packaging (though recyclable)
- Some prefer dropper for precise application
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Identical single-ingredient formula at a fraction of the price. Comes with dropper instead of pump. Source may vary (not specified as sugarcane). Slightly thicker texture.
Same 100% squalane formula. Olive-derived (slightly thicker texture). Smaller 13ml bottle but excellent value. Glass dropper packaging.
Olive-derived squalane with medium-weight texture. 2oz bottle with bamboo dropper. Over 5,000 reviews on Amazon. Works well as makeup primer too.
Sugarcane-derived like Biossance. Ultra-light "dry oil" texture that sinks in quickly. Clinical-grade formula. May not be hydrating enough for very dry skin.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Squalane is highly stable and resistant to oxidation.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. No refrigeration required. Keep bottle closed when not in use.
Recyclable pump bottle. Once empty, dispose of pump and rinse bottle for curbside recycling. Outer carton is FSC-certified sugarcane paper.
100ml size exceeds TSA carry-on limits. Travel size (30ml) available separately for air travel. Pump bottle is spill-resistant.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes, absolutely. This product contains only 100% pure squalane with no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, chemical sunscreens, or any other ingredients that are contraindicated during pregnancy. Squalane is considered completely safe for use throughout pregnancy and breastfeeding. The only precaution: avoid applying to areas that may come in contact with baby's mouth while nursing.
Yes, this is one of the safest oils for fungal acne-prone skin. Sugarcane-derived squalane is a hydrocarbon (made only of carbon and hydrogen), not a fatty acid or triglyceride. Malassezia yeast cannot metabolize squalane, making it completely safe. In fact, dermatologists often recommend squalane as one of the few oils that won't trigger fungal acne flares.
Yes, squalane is compatible with all actives including retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, BHAs, niacinamide, and peptides. It has no pH concerns or interaction issues. In fact, applying squalane after these actives can help seal them in, reduce irritation, and enhance their absorption. It's an excellent "finishing" product for any routine.
This squalane oil works excellently for all skin types: dry (deep hydration), oily (apply to damp skin for lightweight moisture), combination (adjust amount by zone), sensitive (hypoallergenic single ingredient), acne-prone (non-comedogenic), and mature (replaces naturally declining squalene). Its versatility is one of its greatest strengths.
Instant results: 95% of users feel immediately hydrated skin. Week 1: Skin feels softer and smoother. Week 2: 93% notice improved nourishment and hydration. Week 5+: Clinical studies show 100% of users experienced increased cell renewal rate, with skin turnover accelerating by 5 days.
Apply as your last step (after moisturizer) to seal in all previous products. The order is: Cleanser → Toner → Serum → Eye Cream → Moisturizer → Squalane Oil. You can also mix a few drops into your moisturizer, use it alone on damp skin, or apply it any time your skin needs extra hydration.
No, squalane has a comedogenic rating of 0-1, meaning it is non-comedogenic and will not clog pores. It's one of the few oils recommended for acne-prone skin. Biossance's formula is dermatologist tested, hypoallergenic, and specifically designed to be safe for all skin types including acne-prone.
The product has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. Squalane is the hydrogenated, stable form of squalene, which means it's highly resistant to oxidation and has a long shelf life. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight for best results.
Verdict: Biossance 100% Squalane Oil is a premium, sustainably-sourced hydration powerhouse that delivers on its promises. Its single-ingredient purity makes it ideal for sensitive skin, fungal acne sufferers, and pregnant/breastfeeding individuals. While budget alternatives like The Ordinary offer similar formulas at lower prices, Biossance's ultra-lightweight sugarcane-derived texture, convenient pump packaging, and commitment to saving 2 million sharks annually justify the premium for those who value clean beauty and sustainability. A versatile must-have for any skincare routine.
Browse related
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Squalane
Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Hair Conditioning, Refatting
|
Hydrating
|