Squalane oil has gained a important place in the skincare industry, admired for its capacity to hydrate, 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. However, not all squalane oil is of the same quality. Its source plays a key role in determining its sustainability and environmental impact.
Where Squalane Oil Comes From
Squalane oil can be derived from a pair of primary origins: sourced from animals and vegetable-sourced materials. The decision between these categories carries significant ethical implications.
Squalane Oil from Animal Sources
Traditionally, squalane oil was frequently derived from shark-derived squalene. Sharks are a significant provider of squalene, which is converted into squalane oil. Sadly, this approach has serious ethical issues. Millions of sharks are harvested annually for their livers, leading to the depletion of shark populations and damaging marine ecosystems. Furthermore, the methods used are inhumane and are environmentally destructive.
Botanical-Based Squalane Oil
In contrast, botanical-based squalane oil is an ethical and planet-friendly solution. It is produced from plants, removing dependency on animal harvesting. This approach addresses animal welfare concerns but also produces a premium-grade product for skincare applications.
Two Key Sources of Botanical Squalane Oil
Among vegetable-sourced squalane oils, a pair of categories stand out: squalane oil from olives and sugarcane-based squalane oil. While these two offer plant-based alternatives, their eco-friendliness is not the same.
Olive Squalane: A Superior Choice
Olive-derived squalane oil is considered the superior choice for ethical considerations. Olives are a plentiful resource that are minimally wasteful. On top of that, olive squalane oil retains equally excellent 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 environmental challenges. Sugarcane production uses excessive volumes of water and often causes pollution. This makes it less eco-friendly than squalane oil vs squalene olive-derived options.
Why Squalane Oil is Good for Your Skin
Squalane oil offers a plethora of skin-enhancing qualities for every skin type. Here’s why it shines in skincare:
Intense Moisture: Squalane oil absorbs efficiently into the skin, offering profound hydration without clogging pores.
Non-Comedogenic Benefits: Its lightweight texture makes it a great choice for those with combination skin.
Fights Signs of Aging: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil reduces the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while guarding against free radicals.
Soothing for Sensitive Skin: Its pure formulation eases irritation, rendering it perfect for delicate skin.
Why Squalane Oil Deserves a Spot in Your Routine
Whether you have sensitive, mature skin, squalane oil offers remarkable benefits. By choosing plant-based options, especially olive-derived squalane oil, you support eco-consciousness but also ensure your beauty routine includes one of the best ingredients available.