Squalene has become a buzzword in the natural skincare industry. While many people have heard of it, far fewer truly understand what it is, where it comes from, and why it is especially beneficial for mature skin. If you are searching for the best skincare for mature skin, understanding the role of squalene is essential. In this article, we unveil the benefits of squalene, explore the best sources, address potential side effects, and explain why ingredient origin matters more than most people realise.

What is squalene?

Squalene is a lipid naturally produced by the skin and secreted by the sebaceous (oil) glands. It is a vital component of the skin’s surface oils, helping to maintain hydration, elasticity, and a healthy skin barrier. As we age, the skin’s natural production of squalene declines significantly, which contributes to dryness, loss of suppleness, and increased sensitivity (1).

This is why introducing squalene into skincare for mature skin is particularly beneficial. The most effective way to replenish moisture is by using ingredients that are bioidentical to the skin. Because squalene is already part of our natural skin structure, it is easily recognised and absorbed, supporting the skin in the most efficient and harmonious way.

Benefits of squalene for mature skin

Squalene offers a wide range of benefits. It deeply moisturises the skin and helps prevent transepidermal water loss, leaving the skin softer and more comfortable (2). It supports a weakened skin barrier, which is common in ageing skin, improving resilience and reducing sensitivity. By restoring hydration, squalene also helps minimise the appearance of fine lines and uneven texture. In addition, it has antioxidant properties that protect skin lipids from oxidative stress caused by environmental factors such as UV exposure and pollution (3). Despite being nourishing, squalene is lightweight and non-comedogenic, making it suitable even for mature skin that is prone to congestion.

Squalene versus squalane

Most products available on the skincare market contain squalane rather than squalene. The reason is stability. Squalene is chemically unstable and oxidises easily when exposed to air, which can reduce its effectiveness and potentially irritate the skin (4). Squalane is the hydrogenated, stabilised form of squalene. It has a longer shelf life, is easier to formulate, and is therefore widely used in commercial skincare products.

Where does squalene come from?

Many modern skincare products use squalane derived from sugarcane. However, sugarcane does not naturally contain squalene. Instead, sugarcane sugars are fermented using biotechnology to produce precursor molecules, which are then converted into squalene and hydrogenated into squalane (5). While efficient and scalable, this process removes squalene from its natural lipid context.

The richest natural source of squalene on earth is shark liver oil, but this source is neither ethical nor vegan and poses serious environmental concerns (6). The highest plant-based natural source of squalene is amaranth oil.

Why Magical Medicine chooses amaranth oil

At Magical Medicine, we use amaranth oil as the source of squalene in our facial oil. Amaranth oil naturally contains high levels of squalene alongside essential fatty acids, vitamin E, and phytosterols that work synergistically to nourish and support mature skin (7). In its natural form within amaranth oil, squalene remains stable and does not become rancid. It absorbs beautifully into the skin, delivering nourishment without leaving an oily residue, supporting balance rather than excess. For anyone looking for the best face oil for dry skin, a facial oil with amaranth-derived squalene provides a bioidentical, nourishing solution that balances hydration and protects the skin’s natural barrier.

Conclusion

Mature skin thrives on ingredients that work in harmony with its natural biology. Squalene is one such ingredient, offering deep nourishment, barrier support, and antioxidant protection. The Magical Medicine Facial Oil harnesses naturally squalene-rich amaranth oil to deliver ethical, effective, and luxurious skincare that promotes lasting comfort, radiance, and balance.

References 

Smith, K.R. and Thiboutot, D.M. (2008) ‘Thematic review series: skin lipids. Sebaceous gland lipids: friend or foe?’, Journal of Lipid Research, 49(2), pp. 271–281.

Kim, S.K. et al. (2016) ‘Squalene as a cosmetic ingredient’, International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 38(6), pp. 566–573.

Kelly, G.S. (1999) ‘Squalene and its potential clinical uses’, Alternative Medicine Review, 4(1), pp. 29–36.

Popa, O. et al. (2015) ‘Methods for obtaining and determination of squalene from natural sources’, BioMed Research International, 2015, pp. 1–16.

Hill, A. et al. (2013) ‘Industrial production of renewable squalane’, Journal of Industrial Microbiology & Biotechnology, 40(5), pp. 401–408.

Fowler, S.L. (2005) ‘Shark exploitation and conservation’, Environmental Conservation, 32(2), pp. 137–143.

Martirosyan, D.M. and Miroshnichenko, L.A. (2007) ‘Amaranth oil application for coronary heart disease and hypertension’, Lipids in Health and Disease, 6(1), pp. 1–12.