Squalane oil has earned a vital place in the skincare industry, 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 stabilized version of squalene, offering a longer shelf life. Still, not all squalane oil is created equal. Its source plays a crucial role in determining its ethics and effect on the planet.

Breaking Down the Origins of Squalane Oil

Squalane oil can be obtained from two major origins: animal-based and vegetable-sourced materials. The choice between these options is essential to consider for ethics and sustainability.

The Controversy of Animal-Based Squalane Oil

Traditionally, squalane oil was often extracted from shark-derived squalene. Sharks are a significant repository of squalene, which is processed into squalane oil. Sadly, this practice has serious ethical issues. Millions of sharks are slaughtered annually for their livers, contributing to the depletion of shark populations and damaging marine ecosystems. Moreover, the practices used are highly unethical and raise global concerns.

The Rise of Plant-Based Squalane Oil

In contrast, botanical-based squalane oil is an ethical and planet-friendly solution. It is extracted from plants, avoiding reliance on animal harvesting. This approach ensures humane sourcing but also produces a premium-grade product for skincare applications.

Two Key Sources of Botanical Squalane Oil

Among botanical-based squalane oils, two sources stand out: olive-based squalane oil and sugarcane-derived squalane oil. While these two offer botanical choices, their environmental impact varies greatly.

Olive Squalane: A Superior Choice

Olive-derived squalane oil is widely regarded as better for environmental reasons. Olives are a plentiful resource that are minimally wasteful. Additionally, olive squalane oil provides equally excellent hydrating and skin-rejuvenating properties as squalane oil from sugarcane.

Why Sugarcane Squalane Oil Falls Short

In contrast, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is what does squalane oil do linked to substantial eco-concerns. Sugarcane cultivation requires excessive volumes of water and often results in environmental degradation. As a result, it becomes unsustainable than olive-derived options.

Why Squalane Oil is Good for Your Skin

Squalane oil offers a plethora of advantages for all skin types. Here’s why it shines in skincare:

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

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

Anti-Aging Properties: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil helps to combat the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while shielding against free radicals.

Soothing for Sensitive Skin: Its pure formulation soothes sensitivity, rendering it perfect for reactive skin.

Final Thoughts

Whether you have oily, combination skin, squalane oil delivers unparalleled benefits. By choosing botanical options, most notably olive-derived squalane oil, you not only prioritize ethical practices but also give your complexion a superior solutions available.