Squalane vs Vitamin C
Two popular actives, side by side — no fluff.
Squalane
aka hydrogenated squalene, plant-derived squalane, olive squalane
Squalane is the hydrogenated (stabilized) form of squalene, a lipid naturally produced by your skin. It's one of the most universally tolerated moisturizing oils available — lightweight enough for oily skin, nourishing enough for dry skin, and unlikely to cause breakouts in anyone.
Vitamin C
aka L-ascorbic acid, ascorbic acid, ascorbyl glucoside
Vitamin C is one of the most thoroughly researched antioxidants in dermatology. It neutralizes free radicals, inhibits melanin production, and supports collagen synthesis. The challenge is formulation stability — L-ascorbic acid oxidizes easily, and many products degrade before you finish the bottle.
| Squalane | Vitamin C | |
|---|---|---|
| Category | emollient | antioxidant |
| Evidence | 4/5 | 5/5* |
| Hype Level | well-known | well-known |
| What It Does | moisturizingbarrier protectionantioxidant |
Can I Use Them Together?
Yes, they can be used together
Squalane and Vitamin C have no known negative interactions. They can be layered in the same routine safely.
Both pair well with
Key Differences
- 1Squalane is a emollient while Vitamin C is a antioxidant.
- 2Vitamin C has stronger clinical evidence (5/5) compared to Squalane (4/5).
- 3Squalane is better suited for sensitive skin.
- 4Vitamin C is not ideal for sensitive skin, while Squalane has no skin type restrictions.