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Squalane

INCI

Squalane

Safe

Lightweight, stable hydrocarbon derived from olives or sugarcane. Excellent non-greasy emollient.

Last reviewed October 7, 2026 · Always verify against the current Health Canada Cosmetic Ingredient Hotlist before use.

CAS Number

111-01-3

Typical Usage Rate

0.5% - 15%

Formulator's quick answer

How Squalane works in a cosmetic formula

Squalane is a saturated, oil-soluble emollient used to improve slip and reduce a heavy or greasy after-feel in skin and hair products. It can be used in anhydrous blends or added to the oil phase of an emulsion, but it does not emulsify water, preserve a formula, or replace stability testing.

Practical guidance

Formulation notes

01

Use it to tune sensory feel

Squalane is useful when a balm, facial oil, cream, or hair serum needs more glide without relying entirely on heavier plant oils. Compare several levels in the finished base because skin feel depends on the complete oil-phase composition, emulsifier system, powders, and application amount.

02

Keep squalane and squalene distinct

Squalane is the saturated material; squalene is a different, unsaturated ingredient. Confirm the exact INCI name, source, purity, and technical specification on the supplier documents instead of treating the names as interchangeable.

03

Design for the whole oil phase

Squalane is oil soluble and can be incorporated with the oil phase or during cool-down when supported by the supplier process. It is not an emulsifier, so water-containing products still need an appropriate emulsification system and preservation plan.

Where formulators use it

  • Facial oils and lightweight oil serums
  • Creams and lotions that need additional slip
  • Lip, balm, and anhydrous treatment products
  • Hair oils and leave-on conditioning products

Verify before production

  • Declared INCI identity and whether the source is plant-derived or otherwise
  • Supplier purity, odour, colour, and storage specifications
  • Compatibility with the complete oil phase and packaging
  • Current Canadian requirements and the concentration reported on the CNF

Evidence trail

Sources and review notes

Editorial review: October 7, 2026

Sources support ingredient identity, regulatory checks, and formulation context. Supplier specifications and finished-product testing remain necessary for each formula and batch.

Canadian suppliers

Pricing is for reference. Always confirm current price, lead time, and Certificate of Analysis directly with the supplier.

SupplierLocationPrice/kgMin Order
New Directions AromaticsMississauga, Ontario$65 CAD0.25 kg

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Regulatory disclaimer

FormulaNorth helps organize cosmetic formulation, label, costing, and CNF preparation information. It is not legal or regulatory advice and does not replace Health Canada guidance, professional regulatory review, or the maker's responsibility to verify product compliance before sale.