How long does it take for the effects of squalane to become apparent on the skin?

The squalane is the hydrogenated form of squalene, a lipid naturally present in sebum and essential to the formation of the hydrolipidic film. Unlike squalene, squalane lacks carbon–carbon double bonds (C=C) with which hydrogen atoms can react. It is therefore more stable yet remains fully biocompatible. Non-comedogenic, the squalane rapidly penetrates the epidermis and strengthens this barrier, thus limiting transepidermal water loss and the sensation of tightness.

Long considered controversial because of its animal origins, squalane was historically mostly derived from shark liver, an economically viable but ecologically disastrous practice. Today, plant-based alternatives provide a sustainable and ethical source: squalane can be obtained from sugarcane, olive, wheat germ or palm, delivering identical efficacy without impacting marine biodiversity.

At Typology, we use plant-derived squalane obtained from the unsaponifiable fraction of olive oil or sugar cane.

The effects of squalane can be perceived very quickly.

A few minutes after applying the squalane treatment squalane, the skin appears suppler and smoother, thanks to its emollient properties that soften the skin surface and immediately restore the hydrolipidic film. This surface action provides instant comfort, especially beneficial for dry skin.

However, the deeper effects, such as improved skin suppleness or the lasting restoration of the skin barrier, require a daily use over several weeks. On average, four weeks are needed to observe a visible transformation, which corresponds to a full cycle of cellular regeneration. This cycle, lasting around 28 days, aligns with the natural process of epidermal renewal: keratinocytes are born in the basal layer, the deepest layer of the epidermis, migrate to the surface, accumulate keratin, and are eventually shed through desquamation. It is during this cycle that the skin truly integrates the benefits of squalane.

In cosmetics, to achieve results, one must be consistent and patient.

A closer examination of the usage test carried out on our 100% squalane nourishing serum.

At Typology, we offer a nourishing serum formulated with olive-derived squalane, designed to moisturise dry skin, relieve sensations of tightness and reduce dehydration-related fine lines. To evaluate its effectiveness, a usage study was conducted on 35 volunteers with dry skin. Participants applied the product twice daily, morning and evening, over 28 days.

From the very first application, the emollient effects of squalane were evident: 88.6% of users reported that their skin felt instantly nourished, and 94.3% noted a reduction in sensations of tightness. After 28 days of daily use, a period corresponding to a full cycle of cellular regeneration, these effects were further reinforced: 85.3% of volunteers observed more nourished skin, 81.3% reported a decrease in dry patches, and 85.3% confirmed the lasting disappearance of tightness.

These findings confirm that squalane acts both immediately to soften the skin and progressively to reinforce the cutaneous barrier across successive cell cycles.

• ALLISON A. C. Squalene and squalane emulsions as adjuvants. Methods (1999).

• KARADENIZ F. & al. Biological importance and applications of squalene and squalane. Advances in Food and Nutrition Research (2012).