Home Glossary of Ingredients Plant-based squalane (derived from olive oil)

PLANT-BASED SQUALANE (DERIVED FROM OLIVE OIL)

SQUALANE

Ultra-gentle, imperceptible on the skin, and yet incredibly effective: plant-based squalane, also known simply as squalane, is a precious active ingredient in modern cosmetics. Derived fromolive oil, it mimics the lipids naturally present in our skin to hydrate, protect, and restore. Its light, non-greasy texture is suitable for all skin types, even the most sensitive. Used in skincare to strengthen the skin barrier, it also improves the skin’s suppleness, softness, and radiance. In short: an invisible, sensorial shield, straight from nature.

An olive branch in a glass vial filled with olive oil

What Is Plant-Based Squalane (Derived from Olive Oil)? — Definition

Plant-based squalane is a stable, saturated form of squalene, a lipid naturally found in our sebum. Traditionally derived from shark liver, it is now ethically and sustainably extracted fromolive oil, with no impact on marine biodiversity.

Extraction involves several steps: the olives are first pressed to extract their oil, then a hydrogenation process converts the naturally occurring squalene into squalane, a molecule that is much more stable when exposed to air and light.

This transformation makes squalane ideal for cosmetic use: non-oxidizing, odorless, transparent, and perfectly compatible with the skin, it offers all the benefits of squalene without the drawbacks associated with its instability.

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Plant-Based Squalane (Derived from Olive Oil) — How It Works

Squalane is a biomimetic emollient: its lipid structure is nearly identical to that of human sebum. Once applied to the skin, it strengthens the natural hydrolipidic film, thereby limiting transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and restoring the skin’s barrier function.

Its silky texture allows for rapid absorption without leaving a greasy film, while leaving the skin supple and velvety. It acts as a “lipid-replenishing agent,” particularly beneficial for dry, dehydrated, or sensitized skin.

Thanks to its exceptional tolerability, it soothes reactive skin, reduces tightness, and protects against external aggressors (cold, pollution, wind). It can also enhance the delivery of other active ingredients in the formula.

Finally, it has mild antioxidant properties, helping to slow the oxidation of skin lipids and thus prevent premature aging. A skincare product that is both subtle and highly effective.

A woman with her eyes closed applying serum to her face with a pipette

Benefits of Plant-Based Squalane (Derived from Olive Oil) for the Skin

The ultimate biomimetic ingredient, it’s a staple in any skincare routine:

✔ Long-lasting hydration: reduces water loss and restores suppleness

✔ Ultra-lightweight: absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy residue

✔ Soothing: calms feelings of discomfort and tightness

✔ Lipid-replenishing: strengthens the skin barrier

✔ Gentle antioxidant: helps prevent skin aging

✔ Universal: perfectly tolerated by all skin types

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Is plant-based squalane (derived from olive oil) suitable for all skin types?

Yes, plant-based squalane is suitable for all skin tones, all ages, and all skin types. Because its composition is similar to that of sebum, it is recognized and easily absorbed by the skin, making it a universal skincare product.

It is particularly beneficial for dry, sensitive, dehydrated, or damaged skin, but it is also suitable for oily or combination skin, as it does not clog pores or leave a greasy residue. A sure bet, with no compromises.

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Plant-based squalane (derived from olive oil) in cosmetics

Squalane is found in many products: moisturizers, lipid-replenishing serums, facial oils, anti-aging treatments, reparative balms, and post-exposure care products (UV, cold, wind). It is also widely used in minimalist and “clean beauty” formulas.

Contraindications and side effects:
None. Squalane is non-comedogenic, non-irritating, non-sensitizing, and perfectly safe even for the most sensitive skin, pregnant women, and babies.

Usage and Application Tips:
Apply a few drops in the morning and/or evening to clean skin, either on its own or mixed with a cream. It can be used as an intensive treatment or as part of your daily skincare routine on the face, neck, and even the Eye Contour Care. It blends very well with hyaluronic acid or ceramides.

Why Nuhanciam uses this ingredient:At NUHANCIAM, we’ve chosen plant-based squalane for its remarkable biocompatibility and restorative properties, which are perfectly suited to medium- to dark-toned skin, which is often prone to dehydration and skin discomfort. It is a gentle, effective, and stable active ingredient that respects the skin’s natural balance—exactly what we look for in our formulas.