https://russellorganics.com/products/squalane-oil Squalane oil has earned a prominent place in the skincare industry, celebrated for its capacity to hydrate, shield, and revitalize the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid naturally produced in human skin cells, squalane oil is a hydrogenated version of squalene, offering a longer shelf life. That said, not all squalane oil is of the same quality. Its origin plays a significant role in determining its ethics and environmental impact. Where Squalane Oil Comes From Squalane oil can be obtained from two primary origins: animal-based and plant-derived materials. The decision between these sources has serious ethical ramifications. The Controversy of Animal-Based Squalane Oil Traditionally, squalane oil was often derived from the livers of sharks. Sharks are known to be repository of squalene, which is processed into squalane oil. Sadly, this method has severe ethical consequences. Millions of sharks are slaughtered annually for their livers, leading to the depletion of shark populations and destabilizing marine ecosystems. Moreover, the practices used are highly unethical and have been widely criticized. Botanical-Based Squalane Oil In contrast, botanical-based squalane oil is an ethical and eco-friendly solution. It is produced from plants, removing dependency on animal sacrifice. This approach ensures humane sourcing but also results in a high-quality product for skincare applications. Understanding Botanical Squalane Oil Sources Among botanical-based squalane oils, two primary types stand out: olive-based squalane oil and sugarcane-derived squalane oil. While each offer vegan alternatives, their environmental impact differs significantly. The Benefits of Olive-Derived Squalane Oil Olive-derived squalane oil is viewed as preferable for sustainable purposes. Olives are a plentiful resource that generate fewer emissions. What’s more, olive squalane oil offers equally excellent hydrating and skin-rejuvenating benefits as