Ingredient Spotlight: Plant-Derived Squalane
Plant-derived squalane has become one of the most loved ingredients in modern complexion formulas—and for good reason. Lightweight, nourishing, and incredibly compatible with human skin, squalane delivers hydration without heaviness, glow without grease, and softness without irritation. It works beautifully across all skin types, including dry, sensitive, mature, and oily skin.
At Laws of Nature Cosmetics, we include plant-based squalane in several Complexion Essentials, including Liquid Concealer, Skin Tint Foundation, and Cream-to-Powder Foundation. Here’s why this ingredient deserves the spotlight.
What Is Plant-Derived Squalane?
Squalane is the stable, hydrogenated form of squalene—a natural lipid your skin already produces. Instead of being sourced from animals, today’s clean beauty industry obtains squalane from plants such as olives or sugarcane. This makes it not only ethically aligned with modern beauty standards but also exceptionally gentle on the skin.
Because it closely mimics your skin’s natural oils, squalane absorbs easily, feels weightless, and supports the skin barrier without clogging pores or causing irritation.
Deep Hydration Without Greasiness
Squalane delivers moisture in a way that feels breathable, silky, and lightweight. Unlike heavier oils, it sits comfortably on the skin without a greasy or sticky feel. This makes it ideal for complexion products, allowing foundation and concealer to glide smoothly and blend seamlessly.
Whether your skin is dry, combination, sensitive, or oily, squalane adds hydration that feels balanced and comfortable.
Supports a Healthy Skin Barrier
A compromised skin barrier can lead to dryness, tightness, irritation, and makeup that doesn’t sit well. Squalane helps reinforce the skin barrier, keeping your complexion soft, resilient, and better protected throughout the day. This makes it especially beneficial for people who wear makeup regularly and want gentle formulas.
Ideal for Sensitive Skin
Squalane is naturally biocompatible, meaning your skin recognizes it and responds well to it. This makes it one of the gentlest moisturizing ingredients in beauty. If your skin tends to react to synthetic ingredients, fragrances, or heavy oils, squalane offers a soothing, irritation-free alternative.
Its lightweight, non-irritating nature also makes it an excellent addition to under-eye products, where the skin is especially delicate.
Enhances Blendability and Smooth Finish
In foundation and concealer, squalane acts as a slip agent—helping pigments spread evenly across the skin. It allows complexion products to melt in seamlessly, preventing patchiness and minimizing dryness or texture.
This is one reason your Skin Tint Foundation and Cream-to-Powder Foundation feel so smooth during application.
Lightweight and Non-Comedogenic
Despite being deeply hydrating, squalane does not clog pores. Its molecular structure allows it to moisturize the skin while remaining breathable, making it safe for acne-prone skin. Unlike heavier oils that can cause congestion, squalane absorbs quickly and leaves a soft, natural finish.
Why We Use Squalane in Our Complexion Essentials
Plant-derived squalane plays a major role in the luxurious texture of several of our handmade formulas:
- Liquid Concealer — prevents tugging during application and keeps the under-eye area hydrated and comfortable.
- Skin Tint Foundation — adds slip, flexibility, and a soft, skin-like glow.
- Cream to Powder Foundation — improves blendability while maintaining a lightweight, breathable finish.
By choosing plant-based squalane, we ensure your complexion products feel silky, never heavy, and work harmoniously with your skin.
The content shared in The Complexion Edit is for general educational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.