Squalane, a derivative of squalene naturally found in sebum, is known for its high affinity for the skin. It helps restore the skin barrier and maintain long-lasting hydration. But how long does it take to see visible effects? Learn more here about the action timeline of squalane.
How long does it take to observe the effects of squalane on the skin?
Summary
Published on January 9, 2023, updated on October 27, 2025, by Maylis, Chemical Engineer — 4 min of reading
Themes:
A few reminders about squalane.
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 contains no carbon–carbon double bonds (C=C) for hydrogen atoms to react with. It is therefore more stable while remaining fully biocompatible. Non-comedogenic, the squalane penetrates rapidly into the epidermis and reinforces this barrier, thus limiting transepidermal water loss and sensations of tightness.
Long considered controversial due to its animal origins, the squalane was most often derived from shark liver, an economically expedient but ecologically disastrous method. Today, plant-based alternatives offer a sustainable and ethical source: the squalane can be obtained from sugarcane, olive, wheat germ, or palm, ensuring identical efficacy without impacting marine biodiversity.
At Typology, we use plant-derived squalane extracted from the unsaponifiable fraction of olive oil or sugarcane.
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How long should I expect to wait before observing the effects of squalane on my skin?
The effects of squalane can be perceived very quickly.
A few minutes after applying the treatment with squalane, the skin appears more supple and smoother, thanks to its emollient power that softens the skin surface and immediately restores the hydrolipidic film. This surface action provides immediate comfort, particularly appreciated by dry skin.
However, deeper effects, such as improving skin suppleness or the long-term restoration of the skin barrier, require a daily use over several weeks. On average, four weeks are required to observe a visible transformation, which corresponds to a full cycle of cellular regeneration. This cycle, lasting about 28 days, aligns with the natural process of epidermal renewal: keratinocytes are born in the basal layer, the deepest part of the epidermis, migrate to the surface, accumulate keratin, and are then shed through desquamation. It is during this cycle that the skin truly absorbs the benefits of squalane.
In cosmetics, to achieve results, one must be consistent and patient.
A closer look at the usage test performed on our 100% squalane nourishing serum.
At Typology, we offer a nourishing serum based on olive-derived squalane, formulated to nourish dry skin, reduce feelings of tightness, and minimize dehydration-related fine lines. To evaluate its efficacy, a usage test was conducted among 35 volunteers with dry skin. Participants applied the product twice daily, morning and evening, for 28 days.
From the very first application, the emollient properties of squalane were felt: 88.6% of users reported their skin was instantly nourished, and 94.3% noted a reduction in sensations of tightness. After 28 days of daily use—corresponding to a full cycle of cellular regeneration—the effects were further reinforced: 85.3% of participants observed more nourished skin, 81.3% saw 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 skin barrier over successive cellular cycles.
Sources
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).
