Peptides AcademySqualane
How to Use
Squalane is compatible with all peptides and actives. As an oil-phase ingredient, apply it after water-based peptide serums to seal them in. Squalane may enhance peptide penetration by improving the lipophilic environment at the skin surface. Apply before heavier creams or as a final step.
AM
Peptide serum → squalane (2–3 drops) → SPF
PM
GHK-Cu or retinol serum → squalane → ceramide moisturizer (optional)
Best For
Where this entry is most relevant.
anti-aging
Squalane production declines from age 30+; replenishment maintains skin suppleness and supports the lipid environment for active ingredient penetration
skin-glow
Non-greasy moisture and improved light reflection from a smooth, hydrated skin surface
What is it?
A lightweight, stable emollient derived from hydrogenated squalene — a lipid naturally produced by human sebaceous glands. Squalane mimics the skin's natural lipid composition, providing non-greasy moisture and enhancing the penetration of other actives including peptides.
How It Works
- 1
Emollient action
Squalane fills intercellular spaces in the stratum corneum, softening the skin surface and reducing the appearance of fine lines
- 2
Occlusive barrier
A thin squalane layer reduces transepidermal water loss without the heavy, occlusive feel of petrolatum or mineral oil
- 3
Penetration enhancement
Squalane's structural similarity to human sebum may enhance the penetration of co-applied water-soluble actives (including peptides) by optimizing the lipophilic-hydrophilic balance at the skin surface
- 4
Antioxidant activity
Squalane has mild antioxidant properties, scavenging singlet oxygen and reducing lipid peroxidation in the skin surface environment
Role
Emollient, occlusive, penetration enhancer
Evidence
Well-established emollient with good tolerability data across all skin types. Squalane is non-comedogenic, non-irritating, and has been shown to improve skin elasticity and reduce fine lines in small clinical studies. Its primary value is as a vehicle and occlusive — not as an active ingredient.
Common Formats
How this shows up in practice.
The Ordinary 100% Plant-Derived Squalane
Oil
Pure squalane from olive-derived squalene
Biossance Squalane + Peptide Eye Gel
Eye gel
Squalane vehicle with peptide actives for undereye
Drunk Elephant Marula Oil
Oil
Contains squalane as supporting emollient alongside marula