Squalene-rich amaranth oil for skincare, hair care and beyond
Amaranth oil stands out among plant oils for its unusually high concentration of squalene, a lightweight hydrocarbon that supports rapid absorption and is more commonly associated with animal sources, making the plant-derived version a valuable stable alternative for formulators. The oil also carries tocotrienols, unsaturated fatty acids and phytosterols, which explains why it finds use not only in cosmetics but also in food supplement production, pharmaceutical formulations and specialty chemical applications. The 1 liter package belongs to the liquid basic oils section and suits small studio labs as well as early-stage industrial manufacturing where a steady supply of consistent raw material matters.
In skincare formulations, amaranth oil is prized for its light, fast-absorbing texture that leaves no greasy residue on the skin surface. It is typically added during the oil phase of creams, serums, emulsions and body oils at temperatures not exceeding 70-75 degrees Celsius, which helps preserve heat-sensitive compounds. Recommended usage levels range from 3 to 15 percent depending on the product type: lightweight serums usually require only 3-5 percent, while richer creams and balms can incorporate up to 10-15 percent. In color cosmetics, the oil is used in lipstick and lip balm bases as well as lash and brow conditioning products, since it dissolves pigments well and gives the finished product a smooth, gliding feel on application.
Beyond cosmetics, amaranth oil is used in the food industry as a source of unsaturated fatty acids for dietary supplements and functional food products, and in pharmaceutical manufacturing as a carrier oil for soft capsules and topical formulations. In hair care blends, it is frequently paired with lighter oils to balance viscosity: it works well alongside refined poppy seed oil, which lightens the overall texture of the emulsion. For formulations aimed at sensitive or irritated skin, amaranth oil combines successfully with unrefined St. John's Wort oil, while calming balms and after-sun or after-waxing products benefit from adding calendula oil, giving formulators a multifunctional recipe without needing extra active ingredients.
The oil should be stored in a tightly sealed container, kept in a cool dark place away from direct sunlight and heat sources, which helps preserve tocotrienol activity and slow down oxidation. Once the 1 liter bottle is opened, it is advisable to transfer a smaller working portion into a separate container for daily use, reducing air exposure of the main volume. Under proper storage conditions the oil retains its declared properties throughout the shelf life stated by the manufacturer.
Lightweight facial serum with amaranth oil
Amaranth oil 20 ml
Refined poppy seed oil 10 ml
Calendula oil 5 ml
Vitamin E 2 ml
Geranium essential oil 3 drops
Combine
all oils in a clean glass bottle at room temperature and mix gently with a
glass rod until fully blended. Add vitamin E followed by the essential oil,
mixing again after each addition. Transfer the finished serum into a dropper
bottle and apply a few drops to cleansed skin in the evening, patting gently
until absorbed.