Squalane oil has earned a prominent place in the skincare industry, admired for its ability to moisturize, shield, and revitalize the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid innately found in human skin cells, squalane oil is a refined version of squalene, offering a longer shelf life. That said, not all squalane oil is of the same quality. Its origin plays a key role in determining its moral standing and eco-friendliness.

Breaking Down the Origins of Squalane Oil

Squalane oil can be sourced from two key origins: animal-derived and vegetable-sourced materials. The preference between these categories has serious ethical ramifications.

The Controversy of Animal-Based Squalane Oil

Historically, squalane oil was often extracted from shark liver oil. Sharks are known to be natural source of squalene, which is transformed into squalane oil. Sadly, this approach has serious ethical problems. Millions of sharks are killed annually for their livers, contributing to the depletion of shark populations and destabilizing marine ecosystems. Furthermore, the processes used are inhumane and are environmentally destructive.

Botanical-Based Squalane Oil

In contrast, vegetable-based squalane oil is an ethical and planet-friendly option. It is extracted from plants, removing dependency on animal sacrifice. This approach addresses animal welfare concerns but also delivers a premium-grade product for skincare applications.

Plant-Based Squalane Oil: Olive vs. Sugarcane

Among vegetable-sourced squalane oils, a pair of sources stand out: olive-based squalane oil and sugarcane-based squalane oil. While both offer botanical alternatives, their sustainability varies greatly.

Why Olive-Derived Squalane Oil Stands Out

Olive-derived squalane oil is considered preferable for ethical reasons. Olives are a sustainable resource that are minimally wasteful. Additionally, olive squalane oil provides equally excellent hydrating and skin-rejuvenating qualities as squalane oil from sugarcane.

Why Sugarcane Squalane Oil Falls Short

In contrast, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is responsible for substantial issues. Sugarcane cultivation requires massive amounts of water and often causes pollution. As a result, it becomes less eco-friendly than squalane oil from olives.

Why Squalane Oil is Good for Your Skin

Squalane oil offers a plethora of advantages for varied complexions. Here’s why it shines in skincare:

Skin-Quenching Properties: Squalane oil seeps efficiently into the skin, offering effective hydration without causing breakouts.

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

Fights Signs of Aging: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil helps to combat the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while shielding squalane + zinc sheer mineral sunscreen against free radicals.

Gentle Yet Effective: Its natural formulation reduces redness, rendering it perfect for easily irritated skin.

Why Squalane Oil Deserves a Spot in Your Routine

Whether you have oily, combination skin, squalane oil provides remarkable advantages. By choosing ethical options, specifically olive-derived squalane oil, you support sustainability but also give your complexion a superior solutions available.