Squalane oil has secured a prominent place in the skincare world, celebrated for its capacity to moisturize, protect, and rejuvenate the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid organically created in human skin cells, squalane oil is a hydrogenated version of squalene, offering enhanced stability. However, not all squalane oil is of the same quality. Its origin plays a key role in determining its ethics and eco-friendliness.

Where Squalane Oil Comes From

Squalane oil can be sourced from two major origins: sourced from animals and plant-derived materials. The choice between these options has serious ethical ramifications.

Animal-Based Squalane Oil

Traditionally, squalane oil was frequently extracted from shark liver oil. Sharks are a significant natural source of squalene, which is processed into squalane oil. Sadly, this approach has major ethical issues. Millions of sharks are harvested annually for their livers, contributing to the depletion of shark populations and disrupting marine ecosystems. In addition, the practices used are inhumane and have been widely criticized.

The Rise of Plant-Based Squalane Oil

In contrast, plant-derived squalane oil is an ethical and eco-friendly alternative. It is extracted from plants, removing dependency on animal slaughter. This option addresses animal welfare concerns but also results in a high-quality product for skincare routines.

Understanding Botanical Squalane Oil Sources

Among vegetable-sourced squalane oils, two primary types stand out: olive-based squalane oil and squalane oil from sugarcane. While these two offer plant-based options, their eco-friendliness differs significantly.

Olive Squalane: A Superior Choice

Olive-derived squalane oil is viewed as the superior choice for sustainable considerations. Olives are a plentiful resource that are minimally wasteful. What’s more, olive squalane oil provides comparable hydrating and skin-rejuvenating benefits as its sugarcane-derived counterpart.

Why Sugarcane Squalane Oil Falls Short

On the other hand, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is linked to substantial environmental challenges. Sugarcane farming requires massive amounts of water and often causes environmental degradation. As a result, it becomes environmentally taxing than olive-derived options.

Why Squalane Oil is Good for Your Skin

Squalane oil offers countless skin-enhancing qualities for all skin types. Here’s why it stands out in skincare:

Skin-Quenching Properties: Squalane oil seeps deeply into the skin, offering effective hydration without causing breakouts.

Non-Comedogenic Benefits: Its lightweight texture makes it ideal for those with combination skin.

Fights Signs of Aging: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil minimizes the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while shielding against free radicals.

Soothing for Sensitive Skin: Its natural formulation soothes sensitivity, making it ideal for delicate skin.

Final Thoughts

Whether you have oily, mature skin, squalane oil offers unparalleled results. By choosing botanical options, most notably olive-derived squalane oil, you embrace ethical practices but also give your complexion a highly effective products available.