Squalane Oil
Squalane Oil
Product Description
Product overview
A pure, single-ingredient facial oil made with 100% olive-derived squalane by Good Molecules. This lightweight, non-greasy emollient seals in moisture, strengthens the skin barrier, and leaves all skin types soft, hydrated, and radiant without clogging pores.
Deep Hydration
100% pure squalane seals in moisture and prevents transepidermal water loss (TEWL) for lasting hydration throughout the day.
Texture & feel
SENSORYDeep Hydration
100% pure squalane seals in moisture and prevents transepidermal water loss (TEWL) for lasting hydration throughout the day.
Barrier Repair
Squalane is naturally found in healthy skin sebum, helping to restore and strengthen a compromised moisture barrier.
Antioxidant Protection
Naturally occurring antioxidant properties help defend against free radical damage and visible signs of premature aging.
Oil Balance
Biomimetic to skin's own oils, squalane helps regulate sebum production and is especially balancing for combination to oily skin.
Safety & compatibility
SAFESqualane contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. It is considered safe to use during pregnancy and while breastfeeding.
Squalane is a hydrocarbon, not a fatty acid or ester, so it does not feed malassezia yeast. Note: olive-derived squalane may contain trace impurities; if highly sensitive, sugarcane-derived squalane may be preferred.
Squalane has a comedogenic rating of 0, meaning it will not clog pores. It is safe for acne-prone skin and suitable for daily use.
Research shows squalane is non-irritating even at 100% concentration. This single-ingredient formula contains no fragrances, preservatives, or common allergens.
Squalane pairs safely with retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, BHAs, niacinamide, and peptides. It can help buffer irritation from potent actives.
The Environmental Working Group rates this product as low concern across all categories including cancer, allergies, and developmental toxicity.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSSqualane (Olive-Derived) 100%Proven
A saturated hydrocarbon naturally found in human sebum. Squalane is the hydrogenated, shelf-stable form of squalene. It provides exceptional emolliency, surface occlusion, and transepidermal water loss (TEWL) prevention with elegant cosmetic feel.
- Biomimetic: Squalene makes up approximately 12-15% of human sebum, making squalane one of the most biocompatible moisturizers available.
- Non-irritating: Clinical research confirms squalane is non-irritating even at 100% concentration, suitable for all skin types including sensitive and reactive skin.
- Antioxidant: Provides protection against oxidative stress and free radical damage from UV exposure and environmental pollution.
- Barrier support: Helps replenish the skin's lipid barrier, reducing moisture loss and improving skin suppleness and elasticity.
1 ingredient
Squalane
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply after water-based serums and treatments to seal in hydration. Can be mixed into moisturizer or used as the last step before SPF. Use AM & PM.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse & Prep
Start with a clean face. Apply your toner, essence, and any water-based serums first so they can penetrate the skin before sealing with oil.
Dispense 2-3 Drops
Using the dropper, place 2-3 drops of Good Molecules Squalane Oil onto your fingertips or directly onto your face. A little goes a long way.
Press & Pat
Gently press and pat the oil into your face, neck, and décolleté. Avoid rubbing to allow even distribution and optimal absorption.
Allow 30 Seconds to Absorb
Let the oil absorb for about 30 seconds. Follow with moisturizer if desired, or apply sunscreen in the morning. Can also be applied to hair and nails.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have dry, dehydrated, or flaky skin that needs extra moisture
- Your skin barrier is damaged or compromised from harsh actives
- You want a simple, single-ingredient oil with no irritants
- You prefer a lightweight, non-greasy facial oil
- You are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have fungal acne concerns
- You have combination to oily skin and want to balance oil production
- You need a versatile product for face, hair, and nails
Consider alternatives if:
- You want an oil with additional active ingredients (vitamin C, retinol, etc.)
- You need a larger bottle size for body use (13 ml is small)
- You prefer sugarcane-derived squalane specifically for fungal acne sensitivity
- You want a product with anti-aging actives beyond basic hydration
- You are looking for a rich, thick occlusive (this is very lightweight)
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESSqualane is biomimetic to skin's own oils and helps regulate sebum production. Its lightweight, non-greasy texture absorbs quickly without adding shine.
Provides excellent emolliency and locks in hydration. Pair with a heavier moisturizer or sleeping mask for very dry or winter-compromised skin.
Balances beautifully across oily T-zone and drier cheeks. Good Molecules specifically recommends this oil for combination to oily skin types.
Single-ingredient, fragrance-free, preservative-free formula. Research confirms squalane is non-irritating at 100% concentration, ideal for reactive skin.
Comedogenic rating of 0. Squalane has anti-inflammatory properties and does not clog pores. Helps balance sebum to reduce breakout frequency.
Results timeline
2-3 MONTHSInstant Softness & Hydration
Skin feels noticeably softer, smoother, and more supple right after application. The non-greasy texture absorbs within 30 seconds, leaving a dewy, healthy glow.
95% noticed instant hydrationImproved Moisture Retention
Skin barrier begins to strengthen with consistent use. You may notice less tightness and flaking, and your other skincare products perform better as moisture loss decreases.
80% noticed reduced drynessBalanced, Healthier-Looking Skin
With consistent AM and PM use, skin appears more balanced, plump, and radiant. Fine dehydration lines diminish as the moisture barrier is fully restored.
70% noticed improved skin textureVisible Anti-Aging Benefits
Long-term antioxidant protection and sustained hydration contribute to softer fine lines, improved elasticity, and a more youthful overall complexion.
60% noticed reduction in fine linesRatings by platform
2K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Ultra-simple single ingredient formula with zero irritants
- Incredibly affordable at $8 for a pure squalane oil
- Lightweight, non-greasy texture absorbs in seconds
- Safe for all skin types including sensitive, acne-prone, and fungal acne
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding safe
- Beautiful glass packaging with dropper looks elevated for the price
- Versatile use on face, hair, nails, and body
- Vegan and Leaping Bunny certified cruelty-free
Criticized
- Very small bottle (13 ml) — runs out quickly with daily use
- Price per ml is higher than competitors like The Ordinary
- No pump dispenser; dropper can be messy
- Olive-derived squalane may absorb slightly slower than sugarcane types
- Some users report faint plant-like scent (not truly odorless)
- Only one size available — no larger options
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Also 100% pure squalane but derived from sugarcane and beet. More than double the size (30 ml vs 13 ml) for a nearly identical price, making it significantly better value per ml. Absorbs slightly slower but still lightweight.
100% plant-derived squalane in a larger 2 fl oz (60 ml) bottle. Excellent value for the quantity. Comes with a dropper and works identically for face, body, and hair hydration.
100% pure squalane in a 1 oz (30 ml) bottle. Sugarcane-derived, so slightly lighter texture and better suited for those specifically concerned about fungal acne impurities from olive sources.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Squalane is highly stable and resistant to oxidation, so no refrigeration is needed.
Glass bottle with dropper cap for precise dispensing and product protection
Yes, well under 100 ml TSA limit at only 13 ml. Compact glass bottle fits easily in travel kits.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. Good Molecules Squalane Oil contains only 100% plant-derived squalane with no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, chemical sunscreens, or any other ingredients flagged as risky during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Squalane is a naturally occurring component of human skin and is widely considered safe for use throughout pregnancy and while nursing.
Yes. Squalane is a hydrocarbon, not a fatty acid, ester, or polysorbate, so it does not feed malassezia yeast. However, this product uses olive-derived squalane, which may contain trace impurities like fatty acids from the olive refining process. If you are highly sensitive to fungal acne triggers, you may prefer a sugarcane-derived squalane (such as from The Ordinary or Biossance) for maximum safety.
Absolutely. Squalane is compatible with all common skincare actives including retinol, vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid), AHAs (glycolic, lactic acid), BHAs (salicylic acid), niacinamide, and peptides. Apply your active treatments first, then layer squalane on top to lock in moisture and help buffer potential irritation from stronger actives.
Good Molecules Squalane Oil is suitable for all skin types. It is especially beneficial for dry, dehydrated, sensitive, and combination to oily skin. The brand itself highlights that squalane is very balancing and particularly helpful for those with combination to oily skin, as it mimics the skin's natural oils and helps regulate sebum production without clogging pores.
You will feel immediate softness and hydration upon first use. Within 1-2 weeks of consistent daily use, most people notice improved moisture retention and less tightness or flaking. After 4-6 weeks, skin barrier function improves noticeably. For visible anti-aging benefits like reduced fine lines, expect 2-3 months of consistent use.
Apply after all water-based products (cleanser, toner, essence, serums) and before your moisturizer and sunscreen. As an oil, it sits on top of water-based layers to seal in hydration. You can also mix 1-2 drops into your moisturizer. Good Molecules recommends using it in the morning and at night after serums and other treatments.
No. Squalane has a comedogenic rating of 0 out of 5, meaning it is non-comedogenic and will not clog pores. It is technically a hydrocarbon rather than a true oil, so it does not contain the triglycerides and fatty acids that typically cause breakouts. It is safe for acne-prone skin and is unlikely to trigger new blemishes.
Good Molecules Squalane Oil has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. Squalane is a saturated hydrocarbon, meaning it is chemically very stable and highly resistant to oxidation and rancidity compared to unsaturated oils. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight for best longevity. The 13 ml bottle will last approximately 1-2 months with twice-daily use of 2-3 drops.
Verdict: Good Molecules Squalane Oil is a solid, no-frills facial oil that delivers exactly what it promises: pure, plant-derived squalane hydration at an accessible price point. The single-ingredient formula is a standout for anyone with sensitive skin, fungal acne, or pregnancy concerns, and its compatibility with every skin type and active ingredient makes it incredibly versatile. Where it falls slightly short is value per milliliter — at 13 ml for $8, competitors like The Ordinary offer more than double the product for less money. The small bottle size may also frustrate daily users. That said, the attractive glass packaging, reliable quality, and brand transparency make it a great entry point for anyone wanting to try squalane oil. If budget is a primary concern, The Ordinary offers better value; if you want the most elegant texture, Biossance edges ahead. But for a trustworthy, affordable, and safe squalane oil, Good Molecules delivers.
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
|