Squalane oil has earned a prominent place in the skincare world, praised for its power to hydrate, defend, and rejuvenate the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid naturally produced in human skin cells, squalane oil is a refined version of squalene, offering enhanced stability. However, not all squalane oil is of the same quality. Its derivation plays a crucial role in determining its ethics and effect on the planet.

Breaking Down the Origins of Squalane Oil

Squalane oil can be derived from two primary origins: animal-derived and plant-derived materials. The preference between these options is essential to consider for ethics and sustainability.

Squalane Oil from Animal Sources

Historically, squalane oil was frequently derived from the livers of sharks. Sharks are an abundant natural source of squalene, which is transformed into squalane oil. Regrettably, this approach has severe ethical problems. Millions of sharks are harvested on a massive scale for their squalane oil viscosity livers, causing the depletion of shark populations and damaging marine ecosystems. In addition, the practices used are inhumane and are environmentally destructive.

Why Botanical Squalane Oil is the Ethical Choice

In contrast, vegetable-based squalane oil is a sustainable and planet-friendly solution. It is produced from plants, avoiding reliance on animal slaughter. This method addresses animal welfare concerns but also delivers a safe and effective product for skincare routines.

Plant-Based Squalane Oil: Olive vs. Sugarcane

Among botanical-based squalane oils, two types stand out: olive-based squalane oil and squalane oil from sugarcane. While each offer vegan choices, their sustainability is not the same.

Olive Squalane: A Superior Choice

Olive-derived squalane oil is widely regarded as the superior choice for ethical reasons. Olives are a renewable resource that generate fewer emissions. On top of that, olive squalane oil retains equally excellent hydrating and skin-rejuvenating benefits as other plant-based oils.

Why Sugarcane Squalane Oil Falls Short

On the other hand, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is responsible for notable environmental challenges. Sugarcane production requires excessive volumes of water and often results in pollution. Thus, it is unsustainable than squalane oil from olives.

The Skincare Benefits of Squalane Oil

Squalane oil offers countless advantages for all skin types. Here’s why it stands out in skincare:

Skin-Quenching Properties: Squalane oil seeps deeply into the skin, providing effective hydration without causing breakouts.

Balancing for Oily Skin: Its lightweight texture ensures it’s suitable for those with combination skin.

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

Calming for Irritated Skin: Its mild formulation soothes sensitivity, keeping it perfect for reactive skin.

Final Thoughts

Whether you have sensitive, mature skin, squalane oil provides remarkable results. By choosing botanical options, especially olive-derived squalane oil, you support sustainability but also ensure your beauty routine includes a highly effective solutions available.