Spotlight on Squalene: Our Product Picks

What is Squalene?

Thanks to The Ordinary's newest launch The Squalene Cleanser, this oily substance is currently having a huge moment in the beauty spotlight. Touted as a skincare superstar, Squalene is actually a naturally hydrating component of human sebum, which decreases as we age.

Intensely moisturising yet surprisingly lightweight, Squalene works as a highly-effective emollient ingredient for all skin types, but especially those with mature, dehydrated or combination complexions. It hydrates without clogging pores and can even help eliminate fine lines, reduce sun damage and skin pigmentation, all while giving the skin a soft, smooth appearance.

Squalene VS Squalane

This ingredient comes in two forms, squalene and squalane, a more common, hydrogenated version. Both forms are harvested from plant sources including olives, rice bran and wheat germ oil and both work great when included in skincare. Anyone will benefit from both versions, however, Squalane is generally more light-weight, making it helpful for oily or acne prone skin types.