Squalene

Functions
Emollient
Solvent
Hair conditioning
Pigment dispersant
Fixative
CAS Number(s)
111-02-4
EINECS number(s)
203-826-1
FDA UNII
7QWM220FJH
INCI name
Squalene

Squalene is an unsaturated hydrocarbon oil previously obtained from shark livers but now obtainable from vegetable sources. It has six double bonds, making it prone to oxidation and polymerization.

Squalene can be hydrogenated to produce perhydrosqualene or squalane, a light emollient oil of excellent stability and a pleasant skin feel. It is non-irritating, non-sensitizing, and hypoallergenic.

Squalene increases skin respiration and prevents moisture loss. It is emollient and softens the skin but does not leave an oily after-feel, and it is miscible with the interfibrillar glycoproteins.

Today, squalane is obtained from olive oil (Olea europaea). The oil is steam distilled under vacuum, saponified, and then hydrogenated under pressure before being deodorized to yield the pure material.

Squalane is miscible with mineral and vegetable oils and nonpolar solvents. It has pigment-dispersing properties, may be employed as a perfume fixative, and is particularly suitable for emulsions to be used in cold conditions.

See also

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