Squalane oil has earned a vital place in the skincare market, admired for its power to moisturize, protect, and revitalize the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid naturally produced in human skin cells, squalane oil is a refined 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 sustainability and effect on the planet.

Breaking Down the Origins of Squalane Oil

Squalane oil can be sourced from a pair of major sources: animal-based and botanical-based materials. The decision between these categories has serious ethical ramifications.

Squalane Oil from Animal Sources

Historically, squalane oil was frequently derived from shark liver oil. Sharks are known to be natural source of squalene, which is transformed into squalane oil. Regrettably, this practice has serious ethical issues. Millions of sharks are slaughtered every year for their livers, contributing to the depletion of shark populations and disrupting marine ecosystems. In addition, the methods used are highly unethical and are environmentally destructive.

The Rise of Plant-Based Squalane Oil

In contrast, botanical-based squalane oil is an ethical and environmentally conscious solution. It is extracted from plants, eliminating the need on animal harvesting. This option ensures humane sourcing but also delivers a safe and effective product for skincare applications.

Two Key Sources of Botanical Squalane Oil

Among vegetable-sourced squalane oils, two categories stand out: olive-derived squalane oil and sugarcane-based squalane oil. While these two offer botanical options, their environmental impact is not the same.

Olive Squalane: A Superior Choice

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

Why Sugarcane Squalane Oil Falls Short

In contrast, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is linked to significant environmental challenges. Sugarcane cultivation requires massive amounts of water and often produces waste. This makes it environmentally taxing than olive-derived options.

Why Squalane Oil is Good for Your Skin

Squalane oil offers a plethora of advantages for every skin type. Here’s why it stands out in skincare:

Intense Moisture: Squalane oil penetrates deeply into the skin, offering long-lasting hydration without causing breakouts.

Balancing for Oily Skin: Its lightweight texture ensures it’s ideal for all skin types, including oily skin.

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

Gentle Yet Effective: Its natural formulation soothes sensitivity, keeping it perfect for delicate skin.

Final Thoughts

Whether you have sensitive, mature skin, squalane oil delivers remarkable benefits. By choosing plant-based options, most notably olive-derived squalane oil, you support ethical practices but also give your complexion a highly effective products available.