Squalane oil has gained a vital place in the skincare market, admired for its ability to hydrate, defend, and renew the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid innately found in human skin cells, squalane oil is a hydrogenated version of squalene, offering improved longevity. That said, not all squalane oil is the same. Its origin plays a key role in determining its sustainability and effect on the planet.

Understanding the Sources of Squalane Oil

Squalane oil can be derived from two key origins: animal-based and botanical-based materials. The decision between these categories has serious ethical ramifications.

Animal-Based Squalane Oil

In the past, squalane oil was frequently sourced from shark liver oil. Sharks are an abundant natural source of squalene, which is processed into squalane oil. squalane oil emollient Regrettably, this method has severe ethical problems. Millions of sharks are killed on a massive scale for their livers, causing the depletion of shark populations and disrupting marine ecosystems. In addition, the practices used are inhumane and raise global concerns.

Botanical-Based Squalane Oil

In contrast, vegetable-based squalane oil is a sustainable and environmentally conscious solution. It is sourced from plants, removing dependency on animal sacrifice. This method ensures humane sourcing but also produces a safe and effective product for skincare use.

Two Key Sources of Botanical Squalane Oil

Among botanical-based squalane oils, two sources stand out: squalane oil from olives and sugarcane-based squalane oil. While these two offer vegan alternatives, their environmental impact differs significantly.

Olive Squalane: A Superior Choice

Olive-derived squalane oil is considered the superior choice for sustainable reasons. Olives are a plentiful resource that are minimally wasteful. On top of that, olive squalane oil offers equally excellent hydrating and skin-rejuvenating benefits as its sugarcane-derived counterpart.

Why Sugarcane Squalane Oil Falls Short

By comparison, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is associated with substantial environmental challenges. Sugarcane production uses massive amounts of water and often produces pollution. Thus, it is unsustainable than squalane oil from olives.

The Skincare Benefits of Squalane Oil

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

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

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

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

Soothing for Sensitive Skin: Its pure formulation eases irritation, keeping it great for reactive skin.

Why Squalane Oil Deserves a Spot in Your Routine

Whether you have dry, normal skin, squalane oil offers remarkable results. By choosing plant-based options, most notably olive-derived squalane oil, you not only prioritize eco-consciousness but also treat your skin to a highly effective ingredients available.