How to Use Squalane Oil
Oils go last. Here's the exact order, how much to use, and how to work squalane into a morning and evening routine.
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Squalane is an oil, and oils go near the end of a routine — after your water-based serums and either just before or mixed into your moisturizer. Get that order right and the rest is easy.
The order, step by step
- Cleanse (a squalane cleansing balm works well as a gentle first cleanse).
- Toner or essence, if you use one.
- Water-based serums (hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, vitamin C).
- Squalane oil — a few drops.
- Moisturizer (or mix the squalane straight into it).
- Sunscreen — morning only, always last.
How much to use
Two to four drops is plenty for the whole face. Warm it between your fingertips and press it in rather than rubbing hard. Applying it on slightly damp skin helps trap extra water for more hydration.
Morning vs night
At night, squalane is a comfortable last step, or second-to-last under a richer cream. In the morning, apply it before sunscreen so your SPF sits on top and works as tested. If mornings feel greasy, keep the oil for nighttime.
Layering with actives? Squalane plays nicely with retinol and niacinamide — it can even buffer retinol irritation when applied over it. Water-based actives still go on first.
Other ways to use it
- Moisturizer booster — a drop mixed into your cream in winter.
- Hair — a small amount smoothed through ends to tame frizz.
- Body — dry elbows, cuticles, and shins.
Easy oils to start with
The Ordinary 100% Plant-Derived Squalane
9.2A single-ingredient, plant-derived squalane at a price nothing else touches — the default pick for most people.
Read our review
Good Molecules Squalane Oil
8.9The cheapest sticker price of any 100% squalane here, and the molecule is identical to oils costing several times more.
Read our reviewSources
Frequently asked questions
Do you use squalane before or after moisturizer?
Before, or mixed into it. Squalane is light enough to go under a cream, or you can add a drop or two directly to your moisturizer. A heavier cream can also go over squalane to lock everything in.
How many drops of squalane should I use?
Two to four drops is enough for the whole face. Press it in on slightly damp skin for the best hydration.
Can you use squalane every day?
Yes. It's well tolerated and non-comedogenic, so most people use it morning and night. In the morning, apply it before sunscreen.