Squalane oil has earned a vital place in the skincare world, praised for its power to moisturize, shield, and renew the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid innately found in human skin cells, squalane oil is a refined version of squalene, offering improved longevity. However, not all squalane oil is the same. Its derivation plays a significant role in determining its ethics and environmental impact.

Where Squalane Oil Comes From

Squalane oil can be derived from multiple major categories: animal-based and botanical-based materials. The preference between these sources is essential to consider for ethics and sustainability.

Squalane Oil from Animal Sources

In the past, squalane oil was often extracted from shark liver oil. Sharks are a significant natural source of squalene, which is converted into squalane oil. Sadly, this approach has serious ethical issues. 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 unsustainable and raise global concerns.

Why Botanical Squalane Oil is the Ethical Choice

In contrast, botanical-based squalane oil is an ethical and planet-friendly solution. It is extracted from plants, removing dependency on animal harvesting. This approach addresses animal welfare concerns but also delivers a safe and effective product for skincare use.

Plant-Based Squalane Oil: Olive vs. Sugarcane

Among botanical-based squalane oils, two sources stand out: olive-based squalane oil and squalane oil from sugarcane. While both offer plant-based options, their eco-friendliness is not the same.

Olive Squalane: A Superior Choice

Olive-derived squalane oil is viewed as better for ethical considerations. Olives are a renewable resource that require less water. On top of that, olive squalane oil offers the same hydrating and skin-rejuvenating properties as its sugarcane-derived counterpart.

Environmental Concerns with Sugarcane Squalane Oil

On the other hand, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is responsible for substantial issues. Sugarcane cultivation requires large quantities of water and often causes pollution. This makes it environmentally taxing than olive-derived options.

Why Squalane Oil is Good for Your Skin

Squalane oil offers numerous benefits for every skin type. Here’s why it is so highly regarded in skincare:

Intense Moisture: Squalane oil absorbs deeply into the skin, delivering profound hydration without leaving a greasy residue.

Perfect for Combination Skin: Its lightweight texture ensures it’s a great choice for all skin types, including oily skin.

Fights Signs of Aging: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil helps to combat the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while shielding against free radicals.

Calming for Irritated Skin: Its pure formulation soothes sensitivity, rendering it great for easily irritated skin.

Final Thoughts

Whether you have oily, mature skin, squalane oil offers unparalleled benefits. By choosing ethical options, most notably olive-derived squalane oil, you not only prioritize sustainability but also give your complexion a highly effective products available.