Squalane oil has secured a important place in the skincare industry, praised for its power to hydrate, defend, and rejuvenate the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid innately found in human skin cells, squalane oil is a stabilized version of squalene, offering improved longevity. Still, not all squalane oil is of the same quality. Its origin plays a key role in determining its moral standing and effect on the planet.

Breaking Down the Origins of Squalane Oil

Squalane oil can be sourced from a pair of key categories: sourced from animals and botanical-based materials. The choice between these options carries significant ethical implications.

Squalane Oil from Animal Sources

In the past, squalane oil was commonly extracted from the livers of sharks. Sharks are a significant provider of squalene, which is transformed into squalane oil. Unfortunately, this method has serious ethical issues. Millions of sharks are slaughtered on a massive scale for their livers, contributing to the depletion of shark populations and destabilizing marine ecosystems. Furthermore, the practices used are highly unethical and have been widely criticized.

Why Botanical Squalane Oil is the Ethical Choice

In contrast, botanical-based squalane oil is a sustainable and environmentally conscious option. It is produced from plants, eliminating the need on animal sacrifice. This approach ensures humane sourcing but also delivers a premium-grade product for skincare use.

Plant-Based Squalane Oil: Olive vs. Sugarcane

Among plant-derived squalane oils, two primary types stand out: olive-based squalane oil and sugarcane-based squalane oil. While both offer vegan alternatives, their environmental impact varies greatly.

Olive Squalane: A Superior Choice

Olive-derived squalane oil is considered preferable for environmental purposes. Olives are a sustainable resource that are minimally wasteful. On top of that, olive squalane oil provides equally excellent hydrating and skin-rejuvenating benefits as squalane oil from sugarcane.

Environmental Concerns with Sugarcane Squalane Oil

In contrast, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is associated with notable eco-concerns. Sugarcane farming uses large quantities of water and often produces environmental degradation. This makes it less eco-friendly than olive-derived options.

The Skincare Benefits of Squalane Oil

Squalane oil offers numerous benefits for varied complexions. Here’s why it is so highly regarded in skincare:

Intense Moisture: Squalane oil absorbs efficiently into the skin, providing profound hydration without causing breakouts.

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

Reduces Fine Lines: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil helps to combat the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while protecting against free radicals.

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

Why Squalane Oil Deserves a Spot in Your Routine

Whether you have sensitive, combination skin, squalane oil delivers incredible benefits. By choosing botanical options, especially olive-derived squalane oil, you support eco-consciousness but also treat your skin to one of the best products available.