Is Squalane Good for Acne-Prone Skin?
Discover why squalane is considered the best oil for acne-prone skin. Learn about its benefits, comedogenic rating, and how to use it.
If you have acne-prone skin and want to use a facial oil, squalane is often the first recommendation you will hear. But is squalane actually good for acne-prone skin, or is it just another product that will cause breakouts?
The good news: squalane is one of the safest, most beneficial oils for acne-prone skin. With a comedogenic rating of 0-1, it provides moisture and skin benefits without clogging pores.
What is Squalane?
Squalane is a saturated, stable form of squalene. Squalene is a lipid naturally produced by your skin as part of sebum. It makes up about 10-12% of your skin's surface lipids and plays a crucial role in maintaining moisture and protection.
Squalene vs. Squalane
| Property | Squalene | Squalane |
|---|---|---|
| Stability | Unstable, oxidizes easily | Stable, does not oxidize |
| Shelf life | Short | Long |
| Skincare use | Rarely used pure | Common in skincare |
| Source | Naturally in skin | Derived from squalene |
Squalane is hydrogenated squalene, making it stable for skincare use without the risk of oxidation.
Sources of Squalane
Plant-derived (most common today):
- Olive oil
- Sugarcane
- Rice bran
- Amaranth
Animal-derived (less common, ethical concerns):
- Shark liver oil (traditional source, now largely avoided)
Most reputable brands use plant-derived squalane. Always check if this matters to you.
Squalane Comedogenic Rating
| Rating | Meaning |
|---|---|
| 0 | Will not clog pores |
| 1 | Very low likelihood |
| 2 | Moderately low |
| 3 | Moderate |
| 4 | Fairly high |
| 5 | High likelihood |
Squalane has a comedogenic rating of 0-1, the lowest possible range. This makes it one of the safest oils for acne-prone skin.
Why Squalane is So Safe
- Naturally found in skin: Your skin already produces squalene, so it recognizes squalane
- Lightweight: Absorbs quickly without leaving residue
- Non-greasy: Does not sit on top of skin
- Stable: Does not oxidize and become pore-clogging
- Balanced fatty acid profile: Does not disrupt skin lipid balance
Benefits of Squalane for Acne-Prone Skin
1. Moisturizes Without Clogging
The biggest challenge for acne-prone skin is finding moisture that does not cause breakouts. Squalane:
- Provides hydration without heaviness
- Absorbs into skin rather than sitting on top
- Does not leave a greasy film
- Works for oily skin types
2. Supports Skin Barrier
Acne treatments often damage the skin barrier. Squalane helps by:
- Replenishing lost lipids
- Reducing transepidermal water loss
- Supporting healthy skin function
- Helping skin recover from treatments
3. Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Research shows squalane has anti-inflammatory effects:
- May help calm acne-related redness
- Soothes irritated skin
- Supports healing
4. Antioxidant Benefits
Squalane provides antioxidant protection:
- Fights free radical damage
- Protects against environmental stress
- Supports overall skin health
5. Antibacterial Properties
Some studies suggest squalane may have mild antibacterial properties, potentially beneficial for acne-prone skin.
6. Compatible with Acne Treatments
Squalane works well with common acne treatments:
- Benzoyl peroxide: Counteracts dryness
- Retinoids: Reduces irritation
- Salicylic acid: Provides moisture balance
- Niacinamide: Complementary benefits
How to Use Squalane
When to Apply
Squalane can be used morning and/or evening. Most people prefer evening use, but it is light enough for daytime.
Application Order
As an oil, squalane typically goes near the end of your routine:
- Cleanser
- Toner (optional)
- Water-based serums
- Squalane (or mix with moisturizer)
- Moisturizer (optional if squalane is enough)
- Sunscreen (morning)
Application Tips
- Use 2-3 drops: A little goes a long way
- Apply to damp skin: Helps seal in moisture
- Pat, do not rub: Gentle application is best
- Mix with moisturizer: For easier application
- Use after actives: Helps buffer irritation
Sample Routine for Acne-Prone Skin
Morning:
- Gentle cleanser
- Niacinamide serum
- Lightweight moisturizer
- Sunscreen
Evening:
- Oil cleanser (if wearing makeup)
- Gentle cleanser
- Retinoid or acne treatment
- Wait 15-20 minutes
- 2-3 drops squalane
Squalane vs. Other Oils for Acne-Prone Skin
| Oil | Comedogenic Rating | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Squalane | 0-1 | All acne-prone skin |
| Hemp seed oil | 0 | Oily, acne-prone |
| Grapeseed oil | 1 | Light moisture |
| Rosehip oil | 1 | Scarring, aging |
| Jojoba oil | 2 | Similar to sebum |
| Argan oil | 0 | Dry patches |
| Coconut oil | 4 | Avoid on face |
| Olive oil | 2-3 | Body use better |
Why Squalane Often Wins
Squalane is frequently recommended over other oils because:
- Most consistent non-comedogenic rating
- Most similar to natural skin lipids
- Lightweight feel preferred by oily skin
- No strong scent
- Very stable (long shelf life)
- Works for all skin types
Potential Concerns
It Did Not Work for Me
If squalane seems to cause issues:
- Check the source: Ensure you are using pure squalane
- Check other ingredients: Product may contain comedogenic additives
- Consider purging: If using with retinoids, breakouts may be purging
- True sensitivity: Rare, but some people may not tolerate any oil
Breakouts After Starting Squalane
If you experience breakouts:
- Was squalane the only new product?
- Did you introduce it while starting other actives?
- Are you using too much?
- Is the product actually pure squalane?
Quality Matters
Not all squalane is equal:
- Look for 100% squalane or minimal other ingredients
- Avoid products with added fragrance
- Choose reputable brands
- Check for plant-derived sourcing if preferred
Squalane and Fungal Acne
Good news for those with fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis):
Squalane is fungal acne safe.
Squalane is not a food source for Malassezia yeast, making it one of the few oils safe for fungal acne. This is a major advantage over many other moisturizing ingredients.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can squalane make acne worse?
For most people, no. Squalane's very low comedogenic rating makes it unlikely to cause breakouts. If you experience issues, check the product's other ingredients.
How long before I see results from squalane?
Improved hydration is often noticeable within days. Barrier repair and overall skin improvement may take 4-8 weeks of consistent use.
Can I use squalane with retinol?
Yes, this is an excellent combination. Squalane can help buffer retinol irritation and dryness. Apply retinol first, wait for absorption, then apply squalane.
Should I use squalane if I have oily skin?
Yes. Counterintuitively, adding the right oil can actually help balance oily skin. Squalane's lightweight nature makes it suitable for oily skin types.
Can squalane replace moisturizer?
For some people, yes. Squalane alone may provide sufficient moisture, especially in humid climates or for oily skin. Others may prefer to use it under or mixed with moisturizer.
Is olive-derived squalane better than sugarcane-derived?
No significant difference in performance. Both provide the same benefits. Sugarcane-derived is often more sustainable.
Can I use squalane around my eyes?
Yes, squalane is gentle enough for the eye area and can help with fine lines and dryness.
The Bottom Line
Squalane is one of the best oils for acne-prone skin. Its comedogenic rating of 0-1, natural compatibility with skin, and multiple benefits make it an excellent choice for anyone who wants to use an oil without risking breakouts.
Key advantages:
- Nearly zero pore-clogging risk
- Lightweight and fast-absorbing
- Compatible with acne treatments
- Fungal acne safe
- Suitable for all skin types
If you have been afraid to use oils on acne-prone skin, squalane is the safest place to start.
Want to verify that your squalane product is truly non-comedogenic? Use SCRNE to scan the ingredient list and check every ingredient, not just the featured squalane.