Squalane oil has gained a important place in the skincare market, celebrated for its ability to moisturize, defend, and revitalize the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid innately found in human skin cells, squalane oil is a refined version of squalene, offering improved longevity. That said, not all squalane oil is the same. Its derivation plays a key role in determining its moral standing and environmental impact.

Where Squalane Oil Comes From

Squalane oil can be sourced from a pair of primary origins: sourced from animals and plant-derived materials. The choice between these options is essential to consider for ethics and sustainability.

Animal-Based Squalane Oil

Historically, squalane oil was often extracted from shark-derived squalene. Sharks are an abundant natural source of squalene, which is processed into squalane oil. Regrettably, this practice has major ethical consequences. Millions of sharks are killed annually for their livers, leading to the depletion of shark populations and disrupting marine ecosystems. Furthermore, the processes used are highly unethical and are environmentally destructive.

Why Botanical Squalane Oil is the Ethical Choice

In contrast, vegetable-based squalane oil is an ethical and eco-friendly alternative. It is extracted from plants, eliminating the need on animal slaughter. This method ensures humane sourcing but also delivers a safe and effective product for skincare routines.

Understanding Botanical Squalane Oil Sources

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

Olive Squalane: A Superior Choice

Olive-derived squalane oil is widely regarded as the superior choice for sustainable reasons. Olives are a renewable resource that require less water. On top of that, olive squalane oil offers comparable hydrating and skin-rejuvenating properties as other plant-based oils.

The Environmental Downside of Sugarcane-Derived Squalane Oil

In contrast, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is linked to significant eco-concerns. Sugarcane production uses massive amounts of water and often causes environmental degradation. As a result, it becomes environmentally taxing than the olive alternative.

Squalane Oil: A Skin Savior

Squalane oil offers a plethora of skin-enhancing qualities for varied complexions. Here’s why it is so highly regarded in skincare:

Skin-Quenching Properties: Squalane oil absorbs thoroughly into the skin, delivering profound hydration without causing breakouts.

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

Anti-Aging Properties: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil minimizes the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while shielding against free radicals.

Gentle Yet Effective: Its pure formulation soothes sensitivity, rendering it perfect for easily irritated skin.

Final Thoughts

Whether you have dry, normal skin, squalane oil provides remarkable results. By choosing ethical options, most notably olive-derived squalane oil, you support ethical practices but also give your complexion a highly effective solutions available.