Squalane oil has gained a vital place in the skincare market, admired for its power to hydrate, defend, and renew the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid innately found in human skin cells, squalane oil is a stabilized version of squalene, offering enhanced stability. However, not all squalane oil is the same. Its derivation plays a key role in determining its ethics and effect on the planet.

Breaking Down the Origins of Squalane Oil

Squalane oil can be derived from multiple primary sources: sourced from animals and vegetable-sourced materials. The preference between these options carries significant ethical implications.

Animal-Based Squalane Oil

Traditionally, squalane oil was commonly extracted from the livers of sharks. Sharks are a significant repository of squalene, which is converted into squalane oil. Sadly, this method has serious ethical consequences. Millions of sharks are harvested annually for their livers, causing the depletion of shark populations and disrupting marine ecosystems. Moreover, the methods used are highly unethical and have been widely criticized.

Botanical-Based Squalane Oil

In contrast, botanical-based squalane oil is a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative. It is produced from plants, eliminating the need on animal sacrifice. This method addresses animal welfare concerns but also delivers a safe and effective product for skincare applications.

Understanding Botanical Squalane Oil Sources

Among vegetable-sourced squalane oils, a pair of types stand out: olive-based squalane oil and sugarcane-based squalane oil. While both offer plant-based alternatives, their sustainability is not the same.

Olive Squalane: A Superior Choice

Olive-derived squalane oil is viewed as better for sustainable considerations. Olives are a renewable resource that are minimally wasteful. What’s more, olive squalane oil retains the same hydrating and skin-rejuvenating qualities as other plant-based oils.

The Environmental Downside of Sugarcane-Derived Squalane Oil

In contrast, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is associated with notable issues. Sugarcane cultivation requires excessive volumes of water and often causes pollution. Thus, it is less eco-friendly than squalane oil from olives.

Squalane Oil: A Skin Savior

Squalane oil offers numerous skin-enhancing qualities for all skin types. Here’s why it stands out in skincare:

Intense Moisture: Squalane oil absorbs thoroughly into the skin, providing long-lasting hydration without causing breakouts.

Balancing for Oily Skin: Its lightweight texture keeps it what does squalane oil come from ideal for all skin types, including oily skin.

Fights Signs of Aging: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil reduces the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while protecting against free radicals.

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

Why Squalane Oil Deserves a Spot in Your Routine

Whether you have oily, normal skin, squalane oil provides unparalleled benefits. By choosing ethical options, specifically olive-derived squalane oil, you support sustainability but also treat your skin to a highly effective products available.