Squalane oil has secured a important place in the skincare industry, admired for its power to nourish, protect, and renew the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid innately found in human skin cells, squalane oil is a stabilized version of squalene, offering a longer shelf life. However, not all squalane oil is created equal. Its origin plays a significant role in determining its moral standing and environmental impact.

Breaking Down the Origins of Squalane Oil

Squalane oil can be obtained from a pair of key categories: sourced from animals and botanical-based materials. The choice between these sources is essential to consider for ethics and sustainability.

The Controversy of Animal-Based Squalane Oil

Traditionally, squalane oil was often sourced from shark liver oil. Sharks are known to be provider of squalene, which is converted into squalane oil. Unfortunately, this practice has major ethical consequences. Millions of sharks are slaughtered on a massive scale for their livers, contributing to the depletion of shark populations and disrupting marine ecosystems. Furthermore, the practices used are unsustainable and have been widely criticized.

Botanical-Based Squalane Oil

In contrast, vegetable-based squalane oil is a sustainable and eco-friendly option. It is produced from plants, avoiding reliance on animal slaughter. This option addresses animal welfare concerns but also produces a safe and effective product for skincare applications.

Plant-Based Squalane Oil: Olive vs. Sugarcane

Among plant-derived squalane oils, a pair of types stand out: olive-based squalane oil and sugarcane-based squalane oil. While these two offer vegan choices, their environmental impact differs significantly.

The Benefits of Olive-Derived Squalane Oil

Olive-derived squalane oil is widely regarded as better for sustainable purposes. Olives are a renewable resource that are minimally wasteful. Additionally, olive squalane oil offers the same hydrating and skin-rejuvenating benefits as its sugarcane-derived counterpart.

The Environmental Downside of Sugarcane-Derived Squalane Oil

On the other hand, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is linked to notable eco-concerns. Sugarcane farming requires excessive volumes of water and often produces waste. As a result, it becomes unsustainable than olive-derived options.

Squalane Oil: A Skin Savior

Squalane oil offers countless benefits for varied complexions. Here’s why it shines in skincare:

Intense Moisture: Squalane oil seeps thoroughly into the skin, offering long-lasting hydration without leaving a greasy residue.

Perfect for Combination 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.

Calming for Irritated Skin: Its pure formulation soothes sensitivity, making it ideal for reactive skin.

Why Squalane Oil Deserves a Spot in Your Routine

Whether you have dry, combination skin, squalane oil delivers incredible results. By choosing botanical options, specifically olive-derived squalane oil, you support ethical practices but also give your complexion a highly effective products available.