https://russellorganics.com/products/squalane-oil Squalane oil has secured a prominent place in the skincare market, 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 refined version of squalene, offering a longer shelf life. said, not all squalane oil is of the same quality. Its source plays a significant role in determining its sustainability and environmental impact. Breaking Down the Origins of Squalane Oil Squalane oil can be sourced from multiple key origins: sourced from animals and vegetable-sourced materials. The preference between these sources carries significant ethical implications. Animal-Based Squalane Oil In the past, squalane oil was commonly sourced from shark-derived squalene. Sharks are an abundant provider of squalene, which is processed into squalane oil. Sadly, this method has major ethical consequences. Millions of sharks are harvested annually for their livers, contributing to the depletion of shark populations and disrupting marine ecosystems. Moreover, the processes used are unsustainable and raise global concerns. Why Botanical Squalane Oil is the Ethical Choice In contrast, plant-derived squalane oil is an ethical and eco-friendly alternative. It is produced from plants, avoiding reliance on animal harvesting. This method not only aligns with ethical practices but also produces a premium-grade product for skincare routines. Two Key Sources of Botanical Squalane Oil Among vegetable-sourced squalane oils, a pair of sources stand out: squalane oil from olives and sugarcane-derived squalane oil. While these two offer botanical options, their sustainability varies greatly. Olive Squalane: A Superior Choice Olive-derived squalane oil is considered better for environmental reasons. Olives are a plentiful resource that are minimally wasteful. Additionally, olive squalane oil offers the same hydrating and skin-rejuvenating properties as its