Squalane oil has earned a prominent place in the skincare industry, praised for its ability to nourish, protect, and renew the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid organically created in human skin cells, squalane oil is a stabilized version of squalene, offering improved longevity. That said, not all squalane oil is created equal. Its derivation plays a significant role in determining its ethics and effect on the planet.

Where Squalane Oil Comes From

Squalane oil can be sourced from a pair of key origins: animal-derived and vegetable-sourced materials. The decision between these categories has serious ethical ramifications.

Squalane Oil from Animal Sources

Historically, squalane oil was often sourced from the livers of sharks. Sharks are known to be natural source of squalene, which is processed into squalane oil. Regrettably, this approach has serious ethical consequences. Millions of sharks are slaughtered on a massive scale for their livers, leading to the depletion of shark populations and destabilizing marine ecosystems. Moreover, the methods used are highly unethical and raise global concerns.

Botanical-Based Squalane Oil

In contrast, botanical-based squalane oil is an ethical and environmentally conscious alternative. It is extracted from plants, eliminating the need on animal sacrifice. This option ensures humane sourcing but also produces a safe and effective product for skincare use.

Understanding Botanical Squalane Oil Sources

Among plant-derived squalane oils, a pair of types stand out: olive-based squalane oil and squalane oil from sugarcane. While both offer botanical alternatives, their environmental impact varies greatly.

The Benefits of Olive-Derived Squalane Oil

Olive-derived squalane oil is considered the superior choice for environmental considerations. Olives are a plentiful resource that are minimally wasteful. Additionally, olive squalane oil provides equally excellent hydrating and skin-rejuvenating properties as its sugarcane-derived counterpart.

The Environmental Downside of Sugarcane-Derived Squalane Oil

By comparison, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is linked to significant issues. Sugarcane farming consumes excessive volumes of water and often results in waste. Thus, it is environmentally taxing than squalane oil from olives.

Squalane Oil: A Skin Savior

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

Skin-Quenching Properties: Squalane oil squalane oil on body absorbs deeply into the skin, offering effective hydration without leaving a greasy residue.

Balancing for Oily Skin: Its lightweight texture ensures it’s suitable for even the oiliest skin.

Reduces Fine Lines: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil minimizes the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while shielding against free radicals.

Soothing for Sensitive Skin: Its pure formulation reduces redness, keeping it great for delicate skin.

Why Squalane Oil Deserves a Spot in Your Routine

Whether you have sensitive, normal skin, squalane oil delivers unparalleled benefits. By choosing botanical options, most notably olive-derived squalane oil, you embrace eco-consciousness but also treat your skin to one of the best products available.