Squalane oil has earned a vital place in the skincare market, admired for its power to moisturize, protect, and renew the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid organically created in human skin cells, squalane oil is a hydrogenated version of squalene, offering a longer shelf life. Still, not all squalane oil is the same. Its derivation plays a crucial role in determining its moral standing and environmental impact.

Understanding the Sources of Squalane Oil

Squalane oil can be derived from multiple key categories: sourced from animals and plant-derived materials. The choice between these sources 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 provider of squalene, which is transformed into squalane oil. Regrettably, this approach has major ethical consequences. Millions of sharks are killed annually for their livers, causing the depletion of shark populations and disrupting marine ecosystems. Furthermore, the processes used are highly unethical and have been widely criticized.

Why Botanical Squalane Oil is the Ethical Choice

In contrast, vegetable-based squalane oil is a sustainable and planet-friendly solution. It is sourced from plants, avoiding reliance on animal sacrifice. This approach addresses animal welfare concerns but also produces a safe and effective product for skincare applications.

Understanding Botanical Squalane Oil Sources

Among botanical-based squalane oils, a pair of types stand out: squalane oil from olives and sugarcane-based squalane oil. While each offer botanical choices, their environmental impact varies greatly.

Olive Squalane: A Superior Choice

Olive-derived squalane oil is viewed as preferable for ethical purposes. Olives are a plentiful resource that require less water. On top of that, olive squalane oil provides equally excellent hydrating and skin-rejuvenating qualities as its sugarcane-derived counterpart.

The Environmental Downside of Sugarcane-Derived Squalane Oil

In contrast, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is associated with notable issues. Sugarcane production consumes large quantities of water and often causes pollution. As a result, it becomes environmentally taxing than the olive alternative.

Why Squalane Oil is Good for Your Skin

Squalane oil offers numerous benefits for every skin type. Here’s why it shines in skincare:

Intense Moisture: Squalane oil seeps deeply into the skin, offering long-lasting hydration without clogging pores.

Non-Comedogenic Benefits: Its lightweight texture makes it a great choice for those with combination skin.

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

Calming for Irritated Skin: Its pure formulation soothes sensitivity, rendering it squalane oil on eyes ideal for reactive skin.

Why Squalane Oil Deserves a Spot in Your Routine

Whether you have oily, combination skin, squalane oil offers incredible benefits. By choosing plant-based options, especially olive-derived squalane oil, you support sustainability but also treat your skin to a superior products available.