Squalane

Squalane is 角鲨烷 (jiǎo shā wán) in Chinese, written 角鯊烷 in Traditional Chinese (Taiwan). It's a lightweight moisturizing oil that mimics skin's own lipids, absorbing fast without clogging pores.

Squalane's molecules are smaller and closer to skin's own lipid structure, so it absorbs far faster. Vaseline and mineral oil sit on the surface as a long-lasting occlusive seal, which can feel heavy or clog pores. Squalane's whole point is moisture without the smothering.

Slightly damp skin works best — you lock in some water while squalane still absorbs quickly. On soaking-wet skin it just floats on top and absorbs poorly. Fully dry skin is fine too, just slightly less hydrating.

Its comedogenicity is theoretically very low, but very oily, acne-prone skin should still be careful. Dosage is the key — more isn't better. Start with one or two drops and watch your skin for about a week; most people are fine, a few feel slightly congested.

Yes, but keep the amount small — mix one or two drops into your moisturizer instead of applying pure oil. If you still look shiny, you're using too much, or your skin may simply do better with a gel. Normal-to-dry skin usually has no issue.

Squalane itself has no specific contraindications, so it's generally fine in pregnancy. The caveat is the rest of the formula — skip products that pair it with retinol or salicylic acid, and confirm the full ingredient list with your doctor.