Squalane oil has secured a vital place in the skincare market, celebrated for its capacity to moisturize, protect, and renew the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid organically created in human skin cells, squalane oil is a hydrogenated version of squalene, offering enhanced stability. That said, not all squalane oil is of the same quality. Its source plays a key role in determining its sustainability and effect on the planet.

Where Squalane Oil Comes From

Squalane oil can be derived from two major origins: animal-derived and botanical-based materials. The decision between these categories has serious ethical ramifications.

Animal-Based Squalane Oil

Traditionally, squalane oil was commonly extracted from shark liver oil. Sharks are an abundant natural source of squalene, which is converted into squalane oil. Unfortunately, this approach has serious ethical problems. Millions of sharks are slaughtered annually for their livers, causing the depletion of shark populations and damaging marine ecosystems. Moreover, the methods used are highly unethical and raise global concerns.

Why Botanical Squalane Oil is the Ethical Choice

In contrast, plant-derived squalane oil is an ethical and environmentally conscious solution. It is extracted from plants, eliminating the need on animal slaughter. This method not only aligns with ethical practices but also produces a premium-grade product for skincare applications.

Two Key Sources of Botanical Squalane Oil

Among plant-derived squalane oils, a pair of types stand out: olive-derived squalane oil and sugarcane-derived squalane oil. While these two offer vegan alternatives, their environmental impact is not the same.

Olive Squalane: A Superior Choice

Olive-derived squalane oil is widely regarded as the superior choice for ethical purposes. Olives are a renewable resource that require less water. What’s more, olive squalane oil offers comparable hydrating and skin-rejuvenating benefits as its sugarcane-derived counterpart.

Environmental Concerns with Sugarcane Squalane Oil

On the other hand, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is linked to significant environmental challenges. Sugarcane cultivation uses massive amounts of water and often results in pollution. As a result, it becomes environmentally taxing than squalane oil from olives.

The Skincare Benefits of Squalane Oil

Squalane oil offers numerous skin-enhancing qualities for all skin types. Here’s why it shines in skincare:

Deep Hydration: Squalane oil seeps thoroughly into the skin, delivering long-lasting hydration without clogging pores.

Balancing for Oily Skin: Its lightweight texture keeps it a great choice for those with combination skin.

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

Gentle Yet Effective: Its mild formulation soothes sensitivity, making it ideal for reactive skin.

Why Squalane Oil Deserves a Spot in Your Routine

Whether you have sensitive, combination skin, squalane oil delivers incredible results. By choosing ethical options, specifically olive-derived squalane oil, you embrace ethical practices but also give your complexion a superior ingredients available.