CaliGlo Squalane Oil
Squalane is the powerhouse ingredient bioidentical to the moisture found in human skin, making it weightless and instantly absorbed and perfect for use all over the body.
What’s the Difference Between Squalane and Squalene?
You’ve probably seen both terms floating around in skincare, but do they mean the same thing?
Not quite—and yes, it matters.
Squalene (with an “e”) is a lipid your skin naturally produces to keep it soft, hydrated, and protected. As we age, our natural squalene levels decline. Beyond the skin, squalene is also found in both animals and plants. Historically, shark liver oil was a common source, but today it’s more often derived from plants like olives or created through fermentation.
The challenge? Squalene is unstable and breaks down quickly, making it unsuitable for long-lasting skincare formulations. To preserve its benefits, it’s hydrogenated into squalane (with an “a”), a stable, shelf-friendly version that your skin can easily absorb.
At The Ordinary, we’re proud that the beauty industry has moved away from shark-derived squalane. Every drop of squalane in our formulas is 100% plant-based—and as always, our products are vegan and cruelty-free.
What Does Squalane Really Do for Your Skin?
Healthy, glowing skin starts with ingredients that work with your body, not against it. One powerhouse ingredient that has earned a permanent spot in the skincare world is squalane. Found in moisturizers, serums, and facial oils, this lightweight hydrator delivers noticeable results without the heaviness.
If you’ve ever wondered what squalane is, where it comes from, or why your skin might love it, here’s everything you need to know.
1. Locks in Hydration
Squalane mimics your skin’s own oils, making it one of the best barrier-strengthening hydrators around. It helps your skin hold onto moisture, keeping dryness, flakiness, and tightness at bay—without ever feeling greasy.
2. Keeps Skin Calm and Balanced
If you struggle with redness, irritation, or sensitivity, squalane can help. Its soothing properties make it ideal for calming stressed skin while its non-comedogenic nature means it won’t clog pores.
3. Supports Anti-Aging
Squalane works hard against visible signs of aging. It softens the look of fine lines, improves elasticity, and helps skin feel plumper over time. Plus, its antioxidant powers defend against environmental stressors that speed up aging.
4. Helps Balance Oil Production
Because squalane is so similar to the oils your skin produces naturally, it sends a signal to your skin to not overproduce sebum. Over time, that balance can mean fewer clogged pores and less shine for oily or combination skin types.
5. Brightens and Smooths
Squalane’s antioxidant action also plays a role in evening out tone and texture. It helps fade the look of dark spots, softens roughness, and promotes a more radiant, even complexion.
Is Squalane Derived from Olives Vegan?
Is Squalane Derived from Olives Vegan?
Yes — squalane derived from olives is 100% vegan.
■ What makes it vegan?
• It’s plant-based, extracted from olive oil (specifically from the unsaponifiable part of the oil).
• No animal sources or byproducts are used.
• It doesn’t involve animal testing (when sourced ethically and responsibly).
■ What to watch out for:
• Not all squalane is vegan. Historically, squalene (the raw form) came from shark liver, which
is not vegan or cruelty-free.
• Always check that it specifically says 'olive-derived' or 'plant-derived' on the label — or look
for vegan-certified markers.
Is Squalane Derived from Olives Vegan?
Who Can Use Squalane?
The short answer: everyone.
Squalane is lightweight, gentle, and non-irritating, making it safe for all skin types—from dry and sensitive to oily and acne-prone. Unlike heavier oils, it won’t block pores, so you can use it daily in the morning, at night, or both.
Squalane is the powerhouse ingredient bioidentical to the moisture found in human skin, making it weightless and instantly absorbed and perfect for use all over the body.
JUST ONE INGREDIENT:
Squalane Oil: Weightless, hydrating and high-performing oil, sustainably sourced from olives. Replenishes lost-moisture, helps to maintain hydration and leave the skin exceptionally soft
Nourish and hydrate your skin with 100% pure Squalane oil, derived from sustainably sourced olives. This lightweight oil quickly absorbs into the skin, leaving it feeling soft and smooth
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Squalane oil is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin. It helps to regulate oil production, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and improve skin texture and tone
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Our Squalane oil is free from parabens, sulfates, and otheringredients, making it a natural and safe choice for your skincare routine
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Use Squalane oil as a daily moisturizer, or add it to your favorite skincare products to boost their effectiveness. It also works well as a makeup primer or as a soothing aftershave
95% agree skin felt instantly hydrated*
93% agree skin is more nourished and hydrated after 2 weeks*
100% showed an increase in cell renewal rate after 5 weeks**
*Based on a 28 day consumer study of 84 female subjects, ages 18-54, after twice daily use
**Based on a 5 week clinical study of 35 subjects, ages 18-54, after twice daily use