Olive Squalane

Olive Squalane is a highly stable, lightweight, non-greasy emollient derived from olives.
It mimics the natural squalene found in human sebum, making it exceptionally skin-friendly and fast-absorbing.

INCI Name: Squalane

Source: Derived from olive oil (most common)

Key Benefits for Skin

1. Deep Moisturization

• Softens skin
• Prevents moisture loss
• Restores lipid barrier

2. Lightweight & Non-Greasy

• Absorbs quickly
• Suitable for oily, acne-prone, and sensitive skin

3. Anti-aging Support

• Improves elasticity
• Smooths fine lines by reducing transepidermal water loss (TEWL)

4. Non-comedogenic (very low risk)

• No clogging of pores
• Great for face oils and serums

5. Enhances Skin Penetration

• Helps other oil-soluble actives absorb better.

Benefits for Hair

• Reduces frizz
• Adds shine
• Prevents breakage
• Lightweight alternative to silicones
• Helps condition dry ends

Usage Rates

Typical use level in formulations:

• 1–100% (can be used as-is or in blends)
• Facial serums: 2–20%
• Hair products: 1–5%
• Creams/lotions: 1–10%
• Lip oils/balms: 5–20%

How to Formulate With Olive Squalane

Oil Phase Ingredient

• Add to oil phase of emulsions.
• Stable to heat — can be heated if needed.
• Can also be added in cool-down for lightweight feel.

Solubilization

• Not water-soluble
• Requires emulsifiers for water-based systems
• Can be mixed with other carrier oils, esters, butters, and silicones

Compatibility

Highly compatible with:

• Hyaluronic acid
• Niacinamide
• Vitamin C derivatives
• Retinol
• Peptides
• Plant oils
• Esters
• Waxes

Example Formula:

• Lightweight Squalane Facial Oil (30 ml)
• Olive Squalane — 80%
• Jojoba Oil — 10%
• Vitamin E (Tocopherol) — 0.5%
• Essential oil (optional) — 0.5%
• Dry ester (e.g., Isoamyl laurate) — 9%
• Squalane-Boosted Cream (100 g)

Oil Phase

• Olive Squalane — 5%
• Sweet almond oil — 5%
• Emulsifying wax — 5%
• Cetyl alcohol — 2%

Water Phase

• Distilled water — 76%
• Glycerin — 5%
• Panthenol — 1%

Cool-down

• Preservative — 0.5%
• Fragrance — 0.5%