Squalene

Squalene is a lipid naturally produced by human sebaceous glands, comprising about 12% of our skin's natural oils. It plays a crucial role in maintaining skin moisture, suppleness, and protection against environmental damage.

In skincare, plant-derived squalene (typically from olives or sugarcane) is used to replenish this essential lipid. Note that squalene is less stable than its saturated form, squalane, and may oxidise more readily.