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The facts: Squalane is not banned worldwide, but some health agencies have flagged concerns. We can't tell you whether it's safe for your pregnancy — that's a conversation for your OB-GYN or midwife. What we can do is show you the regulatory facts and flag Squalane on any product's label so you can decide with your provider. 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 and allowed in the US. Here's what to know if you're pregnant.
| EU status | Allowed |
|---|---|
| US status | Allowed |
| Risk level (regulatory) | 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 |
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 Squalane with citations to the primary sources below. It is not medical advice and is not pregnancy-specific medical guidance. Consult your OB-GYN or midwife for decisions about your pregnancy.
Squalane is not currently banned worldwide, though some agencies have flagged concerns. See the sources below.
That's a decision for you and your OB-GYN or midwife — we don't give medical advice. What we can tell you is the regulatory status above. Many people choose to limit additives during pregnancy out of caution; bring this page and its sources to your next appointment.
Commonly found in The Ordinary 100% Plant-Derived Squalane, Biossance Squalane + Vitamin C Rose Oil, Drunk Elephant Marula Oil, Kiehl's Daily Reviving Concentrate. Scan any product's barcode to check its label for Squalane.
Jojoba oil or hempseed oil as comparable plant-derived emollients, though squalane's stability and non-comedogenicity make it unique. See the pregnancy-conscious swaps below.
Scan any product's barcode and instantly see if it contains Squalane or other ingredients restricted overseas.
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Audited products that don't contain Squalane.
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