Squalane oil squalane oil in skincare routine has earned a prominent place in the skincare world, praised for its power to nourish, protect, and revitalize the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid organically created in human skin cells, squalane oil is a hydrogenated version of squalene, offering improved longevity. Still, not all squalane oil is the same. Its derivation plays a crucial role in determining its ethics and eco-friendliness.

Where Squalane Oil Comes From

Squalane oil can be sourced from a pair of key sources: sourced from animals and plant-derived materials. The preference between these options carries significant ethical implications.

Animal-Based Squalane Oil

Traditionally, squalane oil was often extracted from shark-derived squalene. Sharks are a significant repository of squalene, which is transformed into squalane oil. Regrettably, this practice has serious ethical consequences. Millions of sharks are slaughtered on a massive scale for their livers, leading to the depletion of shark populations and disrupting marine ecosystems. Moreover, the methods used are inhumane and have been widely criticized.

The Rise of Plant-Based Squalane Oil

In contrast, plant-derived squalane oil is a sustainable and eco-friendly solution. It is produced from plants, eliminating the need on animal harvesting. This method addresses animal welfare concerns but also produces a high-quality product for skincare use.

Two Key Sources of Botanical Squalane Oil

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

Why Olive-Derived Squalane Oil Stands Out

Olive-derived squalane oil is viewed as the superior choice for sustainable considerations. Olives are a sustainable resource that generate fewer emissions. On top of that, olive squalane oil provides equally excellent hydrating and skin-rejuvenating properties as its sugarcane-derived counterpart.

Why Sugarcane Squalane Oil Falls Short

By comparison, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is responsible for substantial issues. Sugarcane cultivation requires excessive volumes 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 benefits for all skin types. Here’s why it shines in skincare:

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

Perfect for Combination Skin: Its lightweight texture makes it suitable for all skin types, including oily skin.

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

Gentle Yet Effective: Its pure formulation eases irritation, keeping it ideal for easily irritated skin.

Final Thoughts

Whether you have dry, mature skin, squalane oil delivers unparalleled advantages. By choosing botanical options, specifically olive-derived squalane oil, you not only prioritize sustainability but also ensure your beauty routine includes one of the best ingredients available.