What is the shelf life of squalane?

Squalane is the hydrogenated form of squalene, a lipid that makes up human sebum, a skin-protecting agent that contributes to the formation of the hydrolipidic film. The use of squalane is often preferred over squalene in skin and hair care because this chemical form is more stable (less susceptible to oxidation).

Squalane isperfectly assimilatedby skin cells.Non-greasyandnon-comedogenic, it does not clog pores and quickly penetrates the epidermis to soften its touch. This lipid supply combats skin dryness and helps repair the skin's hydrolipidic film, enabling it to perform its primary function: preventing the body's water from evaporating. The skin remains hydrated for longer and the feelings of tightness characteristic of dry skin are reduced. Squalane also helps to prevent dehydration fine lines. Besides the skin, it can be applied to the hair as a heat protective treatment. Squalane makes the hair shiny and reduces split ends due to its moisturising properties.

Regarding its extraction method, the squalane has long been controversial. Indeed, it can still today be extracted from the livers of sharks for economic reasons. This is a real ecological disaster as plant-based alternatives have existed for several years: squalane can indeed be extracted from sugarcane, wheat germ, palm trees, and olives. At Typology, we only incorporate plant-based squalane into our skincare products; this comes from the unsaponifiable fraction of olive oil or sugarcane.

The shelf life of squalane is 36 months in the original unopened packaging, stored in a dry and mild environment at room temperature and protected from heat and light sources. Once the product is opened, the squalane remains usable for 12 months (this is referred to as PAO: Period After Opening).