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

Understanding the Sources of Squalane Oil

Squalane oil can be obtained from multiple key categories: sourced from animals and vegetable-sourced materials. The choice between these sources carries significant ethical implications.

The Controversy of Animal-Based Squalane Oil

Historically, squalane oil was often extracted from the livers of sharks. Sharks are an abundant repository of squalene, which is converted into squalane oil. Sadly, this practice has severe ethical issues. Millions of sharks are killed on a massive scale for their livers, leading to the depletion of shark populations and destabilizing marine ecosystems. Furthermore, the methods used are highly unethical and are environmentally destructive.

Why Botanical Squalane Oil is the Ethical Choice

In contrast, vegetable-based squalane oil is an ethical and environmentally conscious alternative. It is produced from plants, removing dependency on animal sacrifice. This option ensures humane sourcing but also delivers a high-quality product for skincare applications.

Two Key Sources of Botanical Squalane Oil

Among vegetable-sourced squalane oils, two primary sources stand out: olive-derived squalane oil and sugarcane-derived squalane oil. While these two offer vegan choices, their eco-friendliness differs significantly.

Olive Squalane: A Superior Choice

Olive-derived squalane oil is widely regarded as better for sustainable considerations. Olives are a plentiful resource that generate fewer emissions. What’s more, olive squalane oil retains equally excellent hydrating and skin-rejuvenating properties as other plant-based oils.

Why Sugarcane Squalane Oil Falls Short

By comparison, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is linked to notable issues. Sugarcane production requires excessive volumes of water and often results in pollution. Thus, it is environmentally taxing than the olive alternative.

Squalane Oil: A Skin Savior

Squalane oil offers a plethora of skin-enhancing qualities for every skin type. Here’s why it shines in skincare:

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

Balancing for Oily Skin: Its lightweight texture makes it ideal for even the oiliest skin.

Anti-Aging Properties: Rich in squalane oil (olive derived) antioxidants, squalane oil reduces the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while guarding against free radicals.

Calming for Irritated Skin: Its natural formulation reduces redness, keeping it perfect for easily irritated skin.

Why Squalane Oil Deserves a Spot in Your Routine

Whether you have sensitive, mature skin, squalane oil offers incredible results. By choosing ethical options, especially olive-derived squalane oil, you not only prioritize ethical practices but also ensure your beauty routine includes one of the best products available.