C13-15 Alkane

Squalane

Squalane is a featherlight, plant-based oil that mimics your skin's own natural oils.

Lightweight, lasting hydration: it absorbs in seconds and never feels greasy.
Strengthens your skin barrier: it slots into skin's natural oils to lock moisture in.
Smoother, more resilient skin: regular use improves texture and comfort.

INCI:

C13-15 Alkane

Derivation:

🌿 Plant

Country of origin:

🇲🇽 Mexico

Name in Mexico:

Escualano

Squalane

Why we use it

Squalane used to come from shark liver, which is why the plant-based version matters so much. Ours is plant-derived, so no shark is involved at any point. It behaves the way your skin's own oils do, which is why it disappears on contact instead of sitting on top. In the Removing Balm that gives enough slip to lift make-up without dragging, and in the Shielding Sunscreen it keeps a mineral filter from feeling heavy.

Suitable for

All skin types

Targets

Dryness, Barrier Support, Textural Irregularities

Benefits

Hydrating and Moisturising

Studies

Daily use of a bakuchiol and squalane-containing face serum impacts skin esthetics

Plant Sources, Extraction Methods, and Uses of Squalene

Shop Squalane

Products with have Squalane

Oil cleansing

Removing Balm - Mamey, Guayaba & Aguacate

Step 1: Oil cleanse • 80g

£35.00

Sunscreen

Shielding Sunscreen - Tamarind & Zinc Oxide

Step 7: Protect • 75mL

£44.00

Our approach to ingredients

At Viva Maia, we create skincare that brings together the rich heritage of pre-Hispanic traditions and modern scientific insight. Our formulations are made with 100% natural ingredients, carefully chosen for their proven effectiveness and their respect for the environment. Inspired by Mexico’s extraordinary biodiversity, we work with potent, sustainably sourced botanicals. Many of these ingredients are cultivated by us and transformed in-house into extracts, powders, and oils, crafted with care and attention to quality.

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