Have you noticed your skin feeling dry and tight lately? No matter how much moisturizer you apply, it still feels parched and lacking that supple plumpness? Dry skin can present itself as flakiness, itchiness, reddness, fine lines, and a dull complexion. While hydrating your skin may seem like an endless battle, there is one ingredient that can help – squalane oil.
Squalane oil is a lipid naturally found in our skin that provides intense hydration. But as we age, our bodies produce less and less squalane leading to moisture loss. Using squalane oil topically helps restore hydration and gives skin a more youthful, radiant appearance.
The best part? Squalane oil easily penetrates deeply into skin without clogging pores or causing breakouts. It mimics our skin’s natural oils, making it easily absorbed and suitable for all skin types.
Squalane oil gels are an ideal way to deliver lightweight hydration. The gel format provides a nice slip to the skin without being too greasy or heavy. Squalane oil blends seamlessly into the gel, spreading easily and providing a big moisture boost.
In this complete guide, we’ll go over:
- The top 5 squalane oil hydrating gels
- How to choose the right squalane gel for your skin
- Frequently asked questions about squalane oil
Let’s get your skin hydrated and glowing!
Top 5 Squalane Oil Hydrating Gels
With squalane oil gaining popularity for its stellar hydrating abilities, more and more brands are formulating it into gels. Here are 5 of the best squalane oil gels to try:
1. The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser
The Ordinary is known for their clinical, no-fuss skin care at affordable prices. Their Squalane Cleanser delivers cleansing and hydration in one step.
It contains squalane oil along with other gentle surfactants to remove makeup and impurities without stripping the skin. You get the deep hydration of squalane plus the purifying effects of a cleanser.
After rinsing, skin feels clean yet soft and supple. It has an elegant oil-gel texture that emulsifies when water is added. The cleanser is non-comedogenic, soap-free, and fragrance-free.
At $8 for a 5oz bottle, this is an amazing value squalane cleanser option. It’s ideal for all skin types, though those with very dry skin may want to follow up with additional moisturizer.
Pros:
- Affordable price
- Deeply hydrating
- Removes makeup and impurities
- Leaves skin clean and soft
Cons:
- Basic formula without added skin care ingredients
- Very dry skin may need additional moisture
2. Biossance Squalane + Vitamin C Rose Oil
For a more luxurious, skin-pampering experience, try the Biossance Squalane + Vitamin C Rose Oil. True to its name, this gel contains squalane along with vitamin C and rose extract.
The vitamin C brightens skin tone while the rose hydrates. And of course the star ingredient – squalane – replenishes moisture for a supple, dewy glow.
Unlike some vitamin C products, this gel-oil hybrid won’t leave skin feeling sticky. The texture feels weightless yet nourishing.
Biossance is also committed to clean, sustainable ingredients. Their sugarcane-derived squalane is ethically harvested and the formula is vegan.
At $72 for a 1oz bottle, this is a splurge. But fans say a little goes a long way and the glowing results are worth it. Use it daily or as a therapeutic treatment when skin needs an extra boost.
Pros:
- Hydrates deeply
- Vitamin C and rose nourish skin
- Clean, sustainable formula
- Luxurious experience
Cons:
- High price tag
- Small bottle
3. Indie Lee Squalane Facial Oil Gel
Indie Lee combines aloe leaf juice, hyaluronic acid, and squalane oil in this soothing gel-oil. It provides intense moisture without clogging pores, making it ideal for all skin types.
The aloe calms inflammation while the hyaluronic acid attracts and locks in hydration. And the plant-derived squalane smooths skin texture for a healthy, luminous complexion.
This oil gel feels lightweight and refreshing on skin. It layers well under serums and moisturizers too. The subtly fresh scent comes from natural botanical extracts.
Indie Lee is committed to clean, non-toxic beauty. Their squalane facial oil is cruelty-free, vegan, and made without questionable ingredients.
At $34 for 0.5oz, this is a mid-range option that delivers spa-like luxury. Use it daily or as needed to relieve dry, stressed skin. Avoid the eye area.
Pros:
- Soothing aloe and hyaluronic acid
- Clean formula
- Refreshing gel-oil texture
- Cruelty-free and vegan
Cons:
- Not as rich as some formulas
- Small bottle
4. Herbivore Lapis Blue Tansy Face Oil
Give your skin a dose of antioxidants and hydration with Herbivore’s Lapis Facial Oil. This unique formula combines squalane, blue tansy oil, and blue chamomile oil.
The star ingredient, blue tansy oil, is powerfully anti-inflammatory and smoothing. It helps calm everything from eczema to acne and rosacea.
Blue chamomile further soothes the skin, reducing redness. And squalane deeply hydrates without clogging pores. Together, these botanical oils make skin feel balanced and nourished.
Despite the rich oils, this face oil feels surprisingly lightweight. The texture absorbs quickly without leaving an oily residue. It has a subtle natural scent from the botanical ingredients.
At $72 for a 1oz bottle, this is one of Herbivore’s pricier oils. But fans say the glow it delivers is priceless. Use a few drops daily or as a spot treatment for irritated skin.
Pros:
- Soothing anti-inflammatory oils
- Deep hydration from squalane
- Absorbs quickly without oiliness
- Cruelty-free and vegan
Cons:
- High price point
- Strong scent may not suit all
5. Peter Thomas Roth Oilless Oil 100% Purified Squalane
If you want an uncomplicated, pure squalane oil gel, Peter Thomas Roth Oilless Oil delivers. As the name implies, it contains 100% squalane oil and nothing else.
The squalane is pharmaceutical-grade and purified to remove any impurities. This helps prevent any chances of clogged pores or breakouts.
Since the squalane mimics skin’s natural oils, the formula gets absorbed rapidly. Skin feels quenched, smooth, and supple without a heavy greasy feel.
This is skincare at its most basic and effective. No added fragrances, colors, or botanicals. Just pure moisture-restoring squalane in a lightweight gel base.
At $38 for 1.7oz, the price reflects the high quality ingredients. Use it as your sole moisturizer or mix into serums and creams for an extra hydration boost. Can be used on all skin types without irritation.
Pros:
- 100% pure, pharmaceutical-grade squalane
- Rapidly absorbed lightweight gel
- Simple, fragrance-free formula
- Hydrates without clogging pores
Cons:
- Higher price point
- Very basic formula without added ingredients
How to Choose the Right Squalane Gel
With so many excellent squalane oil gels out there, how do you choose the right one for your skin? Here are some factors to consider:
Look at Your Skin Type and Concerns
- Oily, acne-prone skin – Seek oil-free gels with added skin purifiers like salicylic acid or tea tree. Avoid richer, greasier formulas.
- Dry skin – Choose nourishing, emollient gels enhanced with hydrators like hyaluronic acid or aloe vera. Avoid astringents.
- Sensitive skin – Go for soothing gels with minimal ingredients. Avoid fragrances and botanical extracts that may cause reactions.
- Mature skin – Look for squalane gels with anti-aging antioxidants like vitamin C and vitamin E. Thicker gels provide more emollience.
- Eczema, rosacea, dermatitis – Anti-inflammatory squalane gels with calming oils like blue tansy are ideal for reducing redness and irritation.
Consider the Texture You Prefer
- Lightweight gel – Absorbs rapidly without residue. Great for layering or oilier skin types.
- Richer gel-oil – Provides more intensive hydration and emollience. Better for very dry skin.
- Medium consistency – Offers a nice balance of absorbency and moisturization. Works for most skin types.
Look for Added Ingredients That Target Your Needs
- Vitamin C – Brightens uneven skin tone and boosts collagen production
- Hyaluronic acid – Binds moisture to the skin, perfect for extra hydration
- Aloe vera – Soothes and calms inflammation
- Salicylic acid – Exfoliates dead skin cells, great for acne-prone skin
- Antioxidants – Neutralize free radicals and protect skin’s youthfulness
Consider When You’ll Use It
- AM – Gel-oils absorb well under makeup as moisturizers. Avoid richer textures that may feel greasy.
- PM – Take advantage of nighttime to layer richer gels for intense overnight hydration.
Think About Climate and Changing Seasons
- In dry winter climates, choose thicker gels that protect skin from cold winds and arid indoor heat.
- In hot, humid summers, go for lightweight gels that won’t feel heavy or clog sweat pores.
Factor In Your Budget
- Under $20 – Affordable drugstore and some indie brands
- $20-$50 – Many mid-range options with quality ingredients
- $50-$100+ – Investment buys from luxury, clean beauty brands
Consider Your Preferences for “Clean” Products
- Organic – No toxic pesticides or fertilizers used on ingredients
- Cruelty-free – Not tested on animals
- Vegan – No animal-derived ingredients
- Sustainably sourced – Environmentally responsible harvesting
- Fragrance-free – No added synthetic fragrances
Try Samples Before Committing
Since everyone’s skin is different, it’s smart to try out squalane oil gels in small sizes before purchasing full bottles. Look for:
- Travel sizes – Great for tossing in your bag to use on-the-go
- Sample sets – Try a few formulas to see which your skin best responds to
- Single-use packets – Ask for free samples next time you’re in a beauty store
Frequently Asked Questions about Squalane Oil
Squalane oil may be gaining buzz as a hot new skin care ingredient, but many people still have questions about how exactly it works. Here are answers to some of the most common squalane oil FAQs:
Is squalane oil non-comedogenic?
Generally yes, squalane oil is considered non-comedogenic, meaning it does not clog pores. Because squalane is an emollient that mimics our skin’s natural oils, it is able to penetrate deeply and deliver hydration without blocking pores.
Studies have found squalane has a zero comedogenic rating, making it unlikely to cause whiteheads or blackheads for most people. Those with highly acneic skin should still patch test first.
Can squalane oil be used on acne-prone skin?
Yes, squalane oil is a great hydrating option even for acne-prone skin. It provides moisture without exacerbating breakouts. That said, those prone to acne will still want to spot test on a small area first.
Opt for a purifying squalane gel with added acne-fighters like salicylic acid or tea tree oil. And avoid using heavy, greasy formulas that could further clog pores.
Does squalane oil clog pores?
No, squalane oil delivers hydration without clogging pores. Its molecules are small enough to penetrate deeply into skin without blocking pores the way thicker oils can. It also closely resembles our skin’s natural sebum.
Squalane scores a 0 on the comedogenic scale, meaning it has an extremely low likelihood of causing clogged pores or breakouts. Always patch test first, but for most people squalane should not cause issues.
How is squalane oil made?
Traditionally squalane oil was made from shark liver oil, but more recent plant-based sources include:
- Olives – Most common plant-derived source.
- Sugarcane – Biossance uses sugarcane-derived squalane.
- Amaranth – A gluten-free grain used by some brands.
- Palm oil – Controversial source due to deforestation concerns.
Look for brands that use sustainable, ethical sources for their squalane. Many are shifting towards plant-based instead of animal-derived.
Is squalane oil heavy or greasy?
No, squalane oil has a very lightweight, fast-absorbing texture. Despite being an oil, it mimics the skin’s natural sebum so it rapidly penetrates without leaving a greasy residue.
Squalane has a thinner consistency than many other face oils. It spreads easily and does not feel heavy on the skin. Even oily or acne-prone skin can use squalane without clogging pores.
Can squalane oil be used under makeup?
Yes, squalane oil can make a great hydrating primer under makeup. Since it absorbs quickly without heaviness, it provides a smooth base for makeup to glide over.
Make sure to let the squalane oil fully absorb for a few minutes before applying makeup on top. This prevents sliding or pilling.
For lighter textures, try gel-like squalane formulas. Avoid thicker, heavier squalane oils for under makeup use.
Is squalane oil comedogenic?
No, squalane oil is considered non-comedogenic, meaning it does not clog pores or cause acne breakouts. With a comedogenic rating of 0, squalane has extremely low chances of blocking pores thanks to its small molecule structure.
Because squalane resembles skin’s natural sebum, it is able to penetrate and hydrate without causing issues for most people. Always patch test first, but comedogenic concerns with squalane are very low.
Does squalane oil have a scent?
Pure squalane oil has no discernible scent and is completely odorless. Some squalane oil gels or formulas with added ingredients may contain natural or synthetic fragrances. But the squalane itself is scentless.
This makes squalane ideal for those with sensitivities to fragrance. Seek out 100% squalane formulas with no extra added scents.
Is squalane oil safe to use during pregnancy?
Yes, squalane oil is generally considered safe for use during pregnancy. As an emollient oil that mimics the skin’s natural sebum, high quality squalane is well-tolerated.
Of course, check with your doctor first during pregnancy and always patch test skin. But the simple composition with no questionable ingredients makes squalane a low-risk choice.
How often can I use squalane oil?
Squalane oil can safely be used twice daily, both morning and evening. Some even apply it multiple times a day for an extra moisture boost. It absorbs rapidly without leaving residue.
Use caution and monitor your skin if applying more frequently than twice a day. As with any product, overuse can lead to clogged pores, breakouts, or sensitivity. But for most, squalane handles frequent use well.
Give Your Skin the Hydration It’s Been Craving
If your skin is desperately lacking hydration no matter how much moisturizer you use, it may be time to bring in the big guns – squalane oil. Formulated into a light, fast-absorbing gel, squalane provides next-level moisture without clogging pores or causing breakouts.
With the top squalane gels outlined here and advice on choosing one tailored to your skin’s needs, you can achieve a healthy, radiant complexion. Don’t let dry, flaky skin make you feel self-conscious. Take control and indulge your face in deep hydration with one of these top-performing squalane oil gels. Your skin’s thirst will finally be quenched!
