Widely praised in skincare, plant-based squalane is also becoming a go-to ingredient in haircare formulations. Its biocompatibility, moisturizing properties and modern, non-greasy sensoriality make it an ideal response to the requirements of cosmetic brands—both from a technical and commercial standpoint. Increasingly used in haircare products worldwide, it meets the growing market demand.
Squalane for high-performance haircare
When incorporated into haircare formulations, plant-based squalane meets the high standards of today’s cosmetics market in terms of naturality and effectiveness. Discover the many benefits of this hair-friendly, health-conscious and environmentally respectful ingredient.
A multifunctional active for hair formulations
SOPHIM has commissioned clinical testing for its olive-derived squalane, Phytosqualan. Proven effective on several fronts, this emollient goes beyond being a functional ingredient—it is a true haircare active.
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A growing presence in haircare formulations
Squalane is used across a wide variety of haircare formats: from oils and mists to serums, balms and leave-in treatments. Its lightweight feel and non-greasy finish meet the expectations of consumers looking for formulas that combine sensorial pleasure with easy application.
Formulators now rely on squalane for anti-frizz solutions, styling products, intensive repair treatments and thermo-protective care. On a global scale, the number of haircare launches featuring squalane increased by nearly 89% between 2021 and 2023
The global rise of squalane in haircare
Squalane is rapidly gaining traction in international markets. Integrated into numerous haircare formulas around the world, this high-value cosmetic ingredient continues to grow by fulfilling specific local needs.
Asia: a driving market for hair care innovations
In the Asia-Pacific region, squalane is increasingly used in refined, sensorial textures. The demand for sensoriality and immediate results is pushing innovation forward, with lightweight formats like mists and serums gaining ground.
China, South Korea and Japan account for nearly 80% of Asian product launches that include squalane.
Sophim’s Hair Mist demo formula is a perfect example of this trend: formulated with nearly 50% olive-based squalane, it delivers instant hydration with a dry touch and non-oily feel.
Europe: clean beauty fosters demand for plant-based squalane
In European markets, brand commitments to cleaner, simpler, and more traceable formulas are accelerating the use of plant-based squalane as a key technical ingredient. Natural haircare products are seen as safer and more sustainable—but still expected to deliver strong performance.
Squalane enables minimalist, high-performance formulations in which every ingredient serves a precise purpose. Used in dry oils, styling creams or repair balms, it ensures pleasant application and visible results on dry or damp hair. Compared to heavier plant oils, squalane provides a fluid texture and fast absorption—key features that align with the expectations of European consumers who are highly attuned to clean beauty innovations.
Our Hair Mist formula features just 8 ingredients, meeting growing demand for simplicity in beauty routines.
North America: balancing performance and transparency
In the North American market, squalane is emerging as a strategic ingredient in premium haircare. Brands highlight its plant origin and proven performance to address two key consumer demands: efficacy and transparency.
From repair serums to styling sprays, squalane is valued for its ability to smooth the hair fiber, tame frizz, protect lengths, and enhance shine—all without weighing the hair down. Its technical profile appeals to both premium and professional brands, as well as mass-market players.
Launches incorporating squalane often promote claims like “weightless moisture,” “anti-frizz with natural origin,” or “botanical shine boost,” illustrating the convergence between naturality and performance.
PHYTOSQUALAN, a signature haircare ingredient
Produced by Sophim from olive oil industry co-products, PHYTOSQUALAN is a 100% plant-based squalane, derived from the olive’s unsaponifiable fraction. It is obtained through an upcycling process that follows green chemistry and circular economy principles.
The transformation of natural squalene into squalane is achieved via a hydrogenation process that preserves the integrity of the molecule. The result is a squalane ideally suited for high-performance, transparent haircare formulations.
PHYTOSQUALAN is COSMOS and NATRUE approved. Its galenic compatibility makes it ideal for a wide range of haircare applications: mists, lightweight serums, leave-in treatments, dry oils or bi-phase formulas.
Are you looking for a reliable partner to supply active ingredients for your next haircare line, including squalane and other plant-based cosmetic actives?
Contact our teams by phone at (+33) 4 92 33 17 17, or send us a message online!