Squalane oil has earned a prominent place in the skincare industry, admired for its ability to nourish, protect, and renew the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid naturally produced in human skin cells, squalane oil is a hydrogenated version of squalene, offering enhanced stability. However, not all squalane oil is the same. Its source plays a key role in determining its ethics and eco-friendliness.

Where Squalane Oil Comes From

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

Squalane Oil from Animal Sources

Historically, squalane oil was commonly derived from shark-derived squalene. Sharks are an abundant provider of squalene, which is processed into squalane oil. Sadly, this approach has serious ethical problems. Millions of sharks are slaughtered annually for their livers, causing the depletion of shark populations and destabilizing marine ecosystems. Moreover, the processes used are inhumane and have been widely squalane oil vs marula oil criticized.

Botanical-Based Squalane Oil

In contrast, vegetable-based squalane oil is an ethical and environmentally conscious option. It is sourced from plants, avoiding reliance on animal slaughter. This approach ensures humane sourcing but also delivers a high-quality product for skincare routines.

Understanding Botanical Squalane Oil Sources

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

Olive Squalane: A Superior Choice

Olive-derived squalane oil is considered preferable for environmental considerations. Olives are a plentiful resource that are minimally wasteful. What’s more, olive squalane oil offers equally excellent hydrating and skin-rejuvenating qualities as other plant-based oils.

The Environmental Downside of Sugarcane-Derived Squalane Oil

In contrast, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is associated with significant eco-concerns. Sugarcane production consumes large quantities of water and often results in pollution. Thus, it is environmentally taxing than olive-derived options.

Squalane Oil: A Skin Savior

Squalane oil offers countless benefits for all skin types. Here’s why it is so highly regarded in skincare:

Intense Moisture: Squalane oil absorbs deeply into the skin, delivering profound hydration without leaving a greasy residue.

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

Fights Signs of Aging: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil minimizes the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while protecting against free radicals.

Calming for Irritated Skin: Its pure formulation reduces redness, keeping it great for reactive skin.

Final Thoughts

Whether you have sensitive, combination skin, squalane oil delivers unparalleled results. By choosing ethical options, most notably olive-derived squalane oil, you support eco-consciousness but also treat your skin to a superior solutions available.