Squalane oil has earned a prominent place in the skincare world, celebrated for its power to nourish, 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 improved longevity. However, not all squalane oil is the same. Its origin plays a crucial role in determining its sustainability and effect on the planet.

Where Squalane Oil Comes From

Squalane oil can be obtained from multiple primary sources: animal-based and plant-derived materials. The preference between these options is essential to consider for ethics and sustainability.

Squalane Oil from Animal Sources

In the past, squalane oil was commonly sourced from shark liver oil. Sharks are a significant repository of squalene, which is processed into squalane oil. Regrettably, this approach has severe ethical consequences. Millions of sharks are harvested every year for their livers, leading to the depletion of shark populations and damaging marine ecosystems. Moreover, the practices used are inhumane and raise squalane oil wiki global concerns.

The Rise of Plant-Based Squalane Oil

In contrast, plant-derived squalane oil is an ethical and environmentally conscious option. It is sourced from plants, avoiding reliance on animal sacrifice. This option not only aligns with ethical practices but also produces a high-quality product for skincare use.

Understanding Botanical Squalane Oil Sources

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

Olive Squalane: A Superior Choice

Olive-derived squalane oil is widely regarded as the superior choice for sustainable reasons. Olives are a plentiful resource that generate fewer emissions. What’s more, olive squalane oil offers 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 substantial environmental challenges. Sugarcane cultivation requires excessive volumes of water and often causes waste. As a result, it becomes environmentally taxing than olive-derived options.

Why Squalane Oil is Good for Your Skin

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

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

Non-Comedogenic Benefits: Its lightweight texture ensures it’s ideal for all skin types, including oily skin.

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

Calming for Irritated Skin: Its mild formulation eases irritation, keeping it ideal for easily irritated skin.

Final Thoughts

Whether you have sensitive, combination skin, squalane oil provides unparalleled benefits. By choosing ethical options, specifically olive-derived squalane oil, you support ethical practices but also give your complexion one of the best products available.