Squalane oil has secured a vital place in the skincare industry, admired for its ability to hydrate, shield, 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. However, not all squalane oil is of the same quality. Its origin plays a key role in determining its ethics and environmental impact.

Breaking Down the Origins of Squalane Oil

Squalane oil can be sourced from two key sources: animal-derived and squalane oil breakout botanical-based materials. The preference between these sources is essential to consider for ethics and sustainability.

Squalane Oil from Animal Sources

Historically, squalane oil was often extracted from the livers of sharks. Sharks are an abundant natural source of squalene, which is processed into squalane oil. Sadly, this method has major ethical consequences. Millions of sharks are killed every year for their livers, leading to the depletion of shark populations and damaging marine ecosystems. In addition, the processes used are unsustainable and have been widely criticized.

Why Botanical Squalane Oil is the Ethical Choice

In contrast, botanical-based squalane oil is a more responsible and planet-friendly solution. It is sourced from plants, removing dependency on animal harvesting. This approach ensures humane sourcing but also results in a high-quality product for skincare use.

Two Key Sources of Botanical Squalane Oil

Among plant-derived squalane oils, two categories stand out: squalane oil from olives and sugarcane-based squalane oil. While both offer plant-based choices, their sustainability differs significantly.

The Benefits of Olive-Derived Squalane Oil

Olive-derived squalane oil is viewed as the superior choice for sustainable purposes. Olives are a sustainable resource that are minimally wasteful. Additionally, olive squalane oil retains equally excellent hydrating and skin-rejuvenating properties as other plant-based oils.

Environmental Concerns with Sugarcane Squalane Oil

In contrast, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is associated with notable issues. Sugarcane cultivation uses excessive volumes of water and often results in waste. Thus, it is less eco-friendly than the olive alternative.

The Skincare Benefits of Squalane Oil

Squalane oil offers a plethora of benefits for every skin type. Here’s why it stands out in skincare:

Intense Moisture: Squalane oil seeps thoroughly into the skin, providing effective hydration without leaving a greasy residue.

Balancing for Oily Skin: Its lightweight texture ensures it’s ideal for those with combination skin.

Anti-Aging Properties: 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 eases irritation, rendering it perfect for reactive skin.

Final Thoughts

Whether you have oily, mature skin, squalane oil delivers incredible advantages. By choosing ethical options, specifically olive-derived squalane oil, you embrace ethical practices but also give your complexion a superior ingredients available.