What is Squalane, and Why Do You Need It?

For thousands of years, fishermen from Scandinavia, Japan, and the South Pacific used shark fat on their faces and hands to soothe irritation from sun and saltwater. The substance responsible for these benefits was squalene. Today, plant-based squalane provides the same hydrating qualities while remaining vegan and ecologically friendly.

What is Squalane Oil?

Our skin naturally produces squalene, a vital component of sebum that helps keep skin hydrated and protected. As we age, squalene production declines, dropping from about 15% of skin oil in the teenage years to roughly 5% after age 50. This decline contributes to dryness, dullness, and increased vulnerability to damage.

Squalane is a derivative of squalene. It is easily absorbed by the skin, deeply moisturizes without feeling greasy, and is incredibly gentle. Vitali sources its squalane from organic virgin olive oil, creating a cruelty-free, plant-based alternative that replenishes lost moisture and restores balance.

Because it is non-comedogenic, squalane can be used on all skin types, including oily or acne-prone skin. Its anti-inflammatory properties may also help reduce redness and irritation from conditions such as acne or eczema.

The Many Benefits of Squalane Oil

Squalane offers a wide range of benefits that go beyond simple hydration. It helps strengthen the skin, improve elasticity, and protect against moisture loss, all while feeling light and comfortable. These qualities make it a powerful ingredient for maintaining soft, healthy skin.

Deep Hydration

Squalane penetrates quickly and efficiently, delivering intense moisture deep within the skin’s layers. It works to replenish hydration from within rather than sitting on the surface.

Enhanced Skin Elasticity & Resilience

By strengthening the skin’s moisture barrier, squalane supports elasticity and resilience, giving the skin a supple, more youthful appearance.

Silky Smooth Texture

Squalane smooths the skin’s surface, softening fine lines and leaving the complexion more refined. With consistent use, squalane restores softness and hydration, giving skin a naturally radiant, healthy glow.

Protection Against Moisture Loss

By forming a protective barrier, squalane helps prevent trans-epidermal water loss so skin stays hydrated longer.

Lightweight & Non-Comedogenic

Clear, odorless, and fast-absorbing, squalane feels light on the skin and won’t clog pores. It delivers hydration without residue, making it suitable for daily use.

Liquid Gold Beyond Just Your Face

Squalane is often called “liquid gold” because of its versatility. Beyond facial care, it can also nourish hair by infusing strands with moisture, repairing damage, and adding shine without weight.

It strengthens nails and softens cuticles, making hands look and feel healthier. Its soothing properties also make it a gentle option for calming irritation and providing comfort after sun exposure or shaving.

How to Use Squalane Oil

As a Moisturizer

Apply a few drops to clean, damp skin and gently massage until absorbed. You can also blend it with your favorite moisturizer or serum to boost hydration, or even use it after shaving to soothe and heal the skin. Its calming effect makes it a go-to for sensitive or irritated areas.

As a Primer

After cleansing and moisturizing, press a few drops into the skin with your fingertips. Allow it to absorb before applying SPF or foundation for a smoother finish. This extra step helps sunscreen and makeup go on seamlessly.

To Boost Other Products

Layering squalane with other treatments enhances their performance. Applied on top of copper peptides, it helps improve absorption. Paired with retinol, it cushions the skin and reduces irritation by slowing penetration.

For Your Hair

Rub a few drops between your palms and smooth through hair from mid-lengths to ends. On towel-dried hair, it protects from breakage and frizz before blow drying. On dry hair, it adds instant shine and smooth ends.

Shop Skincare Made with Your Skin In Mind

Squalane oil shines on its own, but it’s also a key ingredient in several Vitali formulas designed to hydrate, smooth, and protect your skin. Here are a few favorites that highlight its benefits:

• Hydration Boost Facial Oil & Primer: A light, plant-based oil that deeply nourishes and protects your skin’s lipid barrier. 100% Squalane.

• Skin Awakening Moisturizer: A lightweight, non-greasy moisturizer enriched with copper peptides and natural oils, designed to deeply hydrate, firm, and revitalize the skin for a youthful glow.

• Bakuchiol Facial Oil: A natural alternative to retinol, this facial oil contains 2% bakuchiol to promote skin renewal and reduce signs of aging without irritation.