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Answer: Squalane is not currently banned worldwide, but health agencies have flagged concerns. The FDA still allows it in US cosmetics and personal-care products. Risk level: low. Commonly found in: The Ordinary 100% Plant-Derived Squalane, Biossance Squalane + Vitamin C Rose Oil, Drunk Elephant Marula Oil.
TL;DR: Squalane is allowed in the EU but allowed in the US (emollient).
Reviewed for clarity & usefulness by the BannedPantry Parent Panel
INCI name SQUALANE. Also called Plant Squalane. CAS 111-01-3.
Other names: Hydrogenated Squalene, Plant Squalane, Olive Squalane
| EU status | Allowed |
|---|---|
| US status | Allowed |
| Risk level | low |
| Where it shows up | The Ordinary 100% Plant-Derived Squalane, Biossance Squalane + Vitamin C Rose Oil, Drunk Elephant Marula Oil, Kiehl's Daily Reviving Concentrate |
| CAS number | 111-01-3 |
Squalane is a saturated, stable derivative of squalene — a lipid naturally found in human sebum and historically extracted from shark liver oil. Modern cosmetic squalane is predominantly plant-derived (from sugarcane, amaranth, or olives) and is hydrogenated from squalene to make it shelf-stable.
Squalane is used as an emollient, skin-softening agent, and carrier oil. Its identical-to-sebum structure makes it exceptionally biocompatible, non-comedogenic, and suitable for all skin types.
Squalane has an outstanding safety profile with essentially no identified risks at cosmetic use levels. The CIR has confirmed its safety. It is non-comedogenic, non-irritating, and suitable for sensitive, acne-prone, and barrier-compromised skin. No carcinogenic or endocrine effects are documented. Sustainability is a concern if derived from shark liver oil (now rare); ethical consumers should verify plant-derived sources.
For educational use only. This page summarizes the regulatory status of Squalanewith citations to the primary sources below. It is not medical advice. Regulatory status is not the same as a proven health effect — read the cited sources for their exact wording, and consult a doctor for decisions about your or your family's health.
Jojoba oil or hempseed oil as comparable plant-derived emollients, though squalane's stability and non-comedogenicity make it unique.
Historically yes, but today the vast majority of cosmetic squalane is plant-derived (from sugarcane fermentation, amaranth, or olive residues). Check the brand's sourcing statement if this matters to you.
No. Squalane is rated 0–1 on the comedogenicity scale and is one of the most recommended emollients for acne-prone and oily skin.
No. Squalene is the unsaturated precursor (unstable, oxidizes quickly). Squalane is hydrogenated squalene — fully saturated and shelf-stable.
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