Squalane oil has earned a vital place in the skincare industry, admired for its ability to moisturize, protect, and revitalize the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid innately found in human skin cells, squalane oil is a hydrogenated version of squalene, offering enhanced stability. However, not all squalane oil is the same. Its origin plays a crucial role in determining its moral standing and environmental impact.

Breaking Down the Origins of Squalane Oil

Squalane oil can be sourced from a pair of major origins: animal-based and vegetable-sourced materials. The decision between these options is essential to consider for ethics and sustainability.

The Controversy of Animal-Based Squalane Oil

In the past, squalane oil was frequently sourced from the livers of sharks. Sharks are an abundant repository of squalene, which is processed into squalane oil. Sadly, this practice has serious ethical issues. Millions of sharks are killed every year for their livers, leading to the depletion of shark populations and damaging marine ecosystems. Furthermore, the practices used are highly unethical and have been widely criticized.

Why Botanical Squalane Oil is the Ethical Choice

In contrast, botanical-based squalane oil is a sustainable and environmentally conscious option. It is extracted from plants, eliminating the need on animal slaughter. This method addresses animal welfare concerns but also delivers a safe and effective product for skincare routines.

Two Key Sources of Botanical Squalane Oil

Among vegetable-sourced squalane oils, two primary categories stand out: squalane oil from olives and sugarcane-derived squalane oil. While these two offer plant-based alternatives, their environmental impact differs significantly.

Olive Squalane: A Superior Choice

Olive-derived squalane oil is widely regarded as better for sustainable considerations. Olives are a plentiful resource that generate fewer emissions. Additionally, olive squalane oil retains equally excellent hydrating and skin-rejuvenating properties as other plant-based oils.

The Environmental Downside of Sugarcane-Derived Squalane Oil

By comparison, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is responsible for notable issues. Sugarcane farming requires large quantities of water and often causes waste. Thus, it is environmentally taxing than olive-derived options.

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:

Skin-Quenching Properties: Squalane oil seeps deeply into the skin, providing long-lasting hydration without causing breakouts.

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

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

Soothing for Sensitive Skin: Its mild formulation reduces redness, rendering it perfect for reactive skin.

Final Thoughts

Whether you have sensitive, combination skin, squalane oil offers remarkable benefits. By choosing botanical options, specifically olive-derived squalane oil, you embrace ethical practices but also ensure your beauty routine includes one of the best solutions available.