Squalane oil has gained a prominent place in the skincare world, celebrated for its ability to nourish, shield, and rejuvenate the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid naturally produced in human skin cells, squalane oil is a hydrogenated version of squalene, offering improved longevity. That said, not all squalane oil is the same. Its origin plays a significant role in determining its ethics and eco-friendliness.

Breaking Down the Origins of Squalane Oil

Squalane oil can be derived from multiple major categories: animal-based and plant-derived materials. The preference between these options has serious ethical ramifications.

Animal-Based Squalane Oil

In the past, squalane oil was commonly derived from shark liver oil. Sharks are a significant repository of squalene, which is processed into squalane oil. Sadly, this method has major ethical consequences. Millions of sharks are slaughtered on a massive scale for their livers, causing the depletion of shark populations and destabilizing marine ecosystems. Furthermore, the practices used are unsustainable and raise global concerns.

Botanical-Based Squalane Oil

In contrast, plant-derived squalane oil is a sustainable and eco-friendly solution. It is sourced from plants, eliminating the need on animal sacrifice. This method ensures humane sourcing but also delivers a premium-grade product for skincare use.

Understanding Botanical Squalane Oil Sources

Among plant-derived squalane oils, a pair of sources stand out: olive-based squalane oil and squalane oil from sugarcane. While these two offer botanical choices, their sustainability differs significantly.

Olive Squalane: A Superior Choice

Olive-derived squalane oil is considered preferable for sustainable reasons. Olives are a sustainable resource that are minimally wasteful. Additionally, olive squalane oil retains comparable hydrating and skin-rejuvenating benefits as squalane oil from sugarcane.

Why Sugarcane Squalane Oil Falls Short

By comparison, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is linked to significant issues. Sugarcane production requires large quantities of water and often produces waste. This makes it environmentally taxing than olive-derived options.

Why Squalane Oil is Good for Your Skin

Squalane oil offers countless advantages for varied complexions. Here’s why it stands out in skincare:

Deep Hydration: Squalane oil penetrates efficiently into the skin, delivering profound hydration without leaving a greasy residue.

Perfect for Combination Skin: Its lightweight texture ensures it’s suitable for even the oiliest skin.

Fights Signs of Aging: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil reduces the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines squalane oil clog pores while shielding against free radicals.

Soothing for Sensitive Skin: Its natural formulation soothes sensitivity, keeping it perfect for reactive skin.

Why Squalane Oil Deserves a Spot in Your Routine

Whether you have dry, normal skin, squalane oil offers incredible benefits. By choosing botanical options, most notably olive-derived squalane oil, you support sustainability but also treat your skin to one of the best ingredients available.