Squalane Oil Moisturizer - 100% pure & plant derived
Squalane Oil Moisturizer - 100% pure & plant derived
Product Description
A 100% pure, single-ingredient facial oil derived from sugarcane squalane. This lightweight, non-greasy moisturizer mimics your skin's natural sebum to instantly hydrate and lock in moisture without clogging pores. Ideal for face, body, hair, lips, and cuticles.
β¨ Texture & Feel
Weightless Moisture
Mimics your skin's natural sebum for instant hydration without any greasy residue. Penetrates rapidly to lock in moisture.
Anti-Aging Support
Squalane production declines with age. Replenishing it helps plump skin and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
100% Plant-Derived
Sourced entirely from renewable sugarcane. No animal-derived ingredients. Vegan and cruelty-free certified.
Multi-Purpose Use
Works on face, body, hair, lips, cuticles, and dry patches. Can be mixed into moisturizer or foundation for added glow.
π‘οΈ Safety & Compatibility
Contains zero retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. 100% pure squalane is considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Sugarcane-derived squalane contains no ferments, fatty acids, esters, or polysorbates that feed malassezia. A top choice for fungal acne sufferers.
Squalane has a comedogenic rating of 0, meaning it will not clog pores. Safe for acne-prone skin.
Research shows squalane is non-irritating even at 100% concentration. No fragrances, dyes, parabens, or harsh chemicals.
Rated LOW hazard by EWG Skin Deep for cancer, allergies, immunotoxicity, and developmental/reproductive toxicity.
Can be safely layered with retinol, vitamin C, AHA, BHA, niacinamide, and all other actives. No known ingredient conflicts.
π¬ Ingredient Breakdown
𧬠Squalane 100% Proven
A hydrogenated form of squalene β a lipid naturally produced by human skin as part of sebum. Plant-derived squalane from sugarcane is chemically identical to the squalane in your skin, making it exceptionally biocompatible.
- Function: Emollient, moisturizer, skin barrier protector, antioxidant
- Mechanism: Forms a non-occlusive protective layer that prevents transepidermal water loss (TEWL) while allowing skin to breathe
- Research: Studies confirm squalane is non-irritating at 100% concentration and has antioxidant, detoxifying properties
- Source: Derived from sugarcane via biofermentation β highly stable and resistant to oxidation unlike plant oils
1 ingredient
Squalane (100%, Plant Derived)
π Where It Fits in Your Routine
Apply after water-based serums and before heavier creams. Can also replace moisturizer for oily skin types. Use AM and/or PM.
π How to Use
Cleanse & Tone
Start with a clean face. Apply your toner and any water-based serums first, while skin is still slightly damp.
Dispense 1β3 Drops
Place 1β3 drops of squalane oil into the palm of your hand. A little goes a long way β start with less and add more if needed.
Press & Pat Into Skin
Gently press and pat the oil into your face and neck using fingertips. Avoid rubbing to allow maximum absorption.
Layer or Use Alone
Follow with moisturizer for extra hydration, or use alone if your skin feels sufficiently nourished. Can also be mixed into foundation for a dewy finish.
π€ Who Is It For?
β Perfect for you if:
- You want a simple, single-ingredient moisturizer with no additives
- You have sensitive, reactive, or easily irritated skin
- You struggle with fungal acne (malassezia) and need a safe oil
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding and want a worry-free product
- You want a versatile oil for face, body, hair, and lips
- You prefer lightweight, non-greasy hydration over heavy creams
- You need a product compatible with retinol and active treatments
β Consider alternatives if:
- You need heavy-duty moisture for very dry or eczema-prone skin (may not be rich enough alone)
- You want a multi-active serum with additional anti-aging ingredients
- You prefer a completely matte finish with zero dewiness
- You want added ingredients like vitamin C, retinol, or ceramides in your oil
π― Skin Type Compatibility
Absorbs quickly without adding shine. Mimics sebum so skin doesn't overproduce oil. Non-comedogenic rating of 0.
Provides solid hydration and prevents moisture loss. Very dry skin may benefit from layering a heavier cream on top.
Balances perfectly across oily and dry zones. Light enough for T-zone, hydrating enough for cheeks.
Single ingredient, fragrance-free, zero irritants. Proven non-irritating even at 100% concentration. Ideal for reactive skin.
Non-comedogenic (0/5), fungal acne safe, and has anti-inflammatory properties. Helps balance sebum production.
π Results Timeline
Instant Hydration & Softness
Skin feels immediately softer, smoother, and hydrated. The lightweight oil absorbs within seconds, leaving a comfortable satin finish.
95% noticed instant hydrationImproved Moisture Balance
Skin's moisture barrier begins to strengthen. Dryness and flaking are noticeably reduced. Skin feels more nourished and supple throughout the day.
80% noticed improved textureVisible Plumping & Glow
Fine lines appear less prominent as skin stays consistently hydrated. Many users report a healthy, natural glow and improved skin elasticity.
70% noticed reduced fine linesLong-Term Skin Health
Ongoing use supports cell turnover and helps maintain a balanced, resilient moisture barrier. Skin looks and feels healthier overall.
85% would repurchaseβ Ratings by Platform
βοΈ Pros & Cons
β Praised
- 100% pure single ingredient β no hidden additives or fillers
- Absorbs incredibly fast with no greasy residue
- Works beautifully as a primer under makeup for a dewy glow
- Versatile: face, body, hair, lips, cuticles, hands, and feet
- Safe for all skin types including acne-prone and sensitive
- Fragrance-free, clean formula β EWG Low Hazard rated
- A little goes a long way; bottle lasts a long time
- Noticeable improvement in fine lines with consistent use
β Criticized
- May not be moisturizing enough alone for very dry or eczema skin
- 2 fl oz bottle feels small; some wish for a larger size option
- Dropper packaging can dispense too much at once
- Higher price per ml compared to some budget competitors
- No additional active ingredients (by design, but some want more)
π° Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
Also 100% squalane derived from sugarcane. Slightly thicker texture with marginally slower absorption. Comes in 30ml with dropper. Best value squalane oil on the market.
Olive-derived squalane with a balanced, medium-weight texture. Doubles as a makeup primer. Bamboo dropper cap. May not be ideal for fungal acne due to olive source.
Sugarcane-derived with an ultra-thin "dry oil" texture. Clinical-grade formula. Absorbs very quickly but may feel less hydrating for very dry skin types.
π Comparison with Competitors
Amara Beauty Squalane Oil
$19.95The Ordinary Squalane
$10.40Biossance 100% Squalane Oil
$32.00Timeless Squalane Oil
$11.45π¦ Storage & Shelf Life
12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Squalane is highly stable and resistant to oxidation, so no refrigeration needed.
Dark glass bottle with dropper cap to protect from light degradation and allow precise dispensing.
Yes β 2 fl oz (60ml) is under the 100ml TSA liquid limit. Glass bottle, so pack carefully.
β Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. This product contains only 100% pure squalane with no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, chemical sunscreens, or any other ingredients flagged as unsafe during pregnancy. Squalane is a naturally occurring compound in human skin and is considered completely safe for pregnant and breastfeeding women.
Yes. Amara Beauty's squalane is derived from sugarcane, which is the recommended source for fungal acne sufferers. Sugarcane-derived squalane contains no fatty acid impurities, ferments, esters, or polysorbates that feed malassezia yeast. It is one of the safest moisturizing options for those with fungal acne.
Absolutely. Squalane has zero known ingredient conflicts and can be safely layered with all actives including retinol, vitamin C, AHA, BHA, niacinamide, peptides, and benzoyl peroxide. In fact, squalane can help soothe and moisturize skin that becomes dry or irritated from active treatments. Apply squalane after your actives have absorbed.
This squalane oil is suitable for all skin types β oily, dry, combination, sensitive, and acne-prone. Because it mimics your skin's natural sebum, it absorbs quickly without feeling heavy on oily skin while still providing adequate moisture for drier types. Those with very dry or eczema-prone skin may want to layer a heavier cream on top.
You will feel an immediate improvement in hydration and skin softness from the very first use. Within 1β2 weeks, you should notice better overall moisture balance and reduced dry patches. After 4β6 weeks of consistent use, many users report plumper-looking skin and a visible reduction in the appearance of fine lines.
Apply after cleansing, toning, and applying any water-based serums. Use 1β3 drops and press gently into skin. Follow with a moisturizer if desired, then sunscreen in the morning. As an oil, it should go after thinner, water-based products but before heavier creams. It can be used both morning and night.
No. Squalane has a comedogenic rating of 0 out of 5, meaning it is non-comedogenic and will not clog pores. Despite being an oil, squalane is actually a hydrocarbon (not a true triglyceride oil), which is why it is so well-tolerated by acne-prone skin. It can even help regulate sebum production.
The estimated shelf life is 12 months after opening (12M PAO). However, squalane is one of the most stable oils available β unlike many plant oils, it is highly resistant to oxidation and rancidity. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight for best results. Using 2β3 drops daily, the 2 fl oz bottle typically lasts 3β4 months.
Verdict: Amara Beauty Squalane Oil is a solid, no-frills single-ingredient moisturizer that delivers exactly what it promises β pure, plant-derived squalane from sugarcane. Its biggest strengths are its impeccable safety profile (pregnancy safe, fungal acne safe, non-comedogenic, non-irritating) and remarkable versatility across all skin types. The generous 2 fl oz size offers better value than many competitors at a similar per-ml cost. While it won't wow you with exotic active ingredients, its simplicity is the point β and for anyone looking for a clean, effective, multi-purpose hydrating oil with zero compromises on safety, Amara Beauty delivers. A great everyday oil at a fair price.
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 skinβs 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 Β«promisesΒ» 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
|