Squalane is an ingredient that most of us have used, seen, or heard of before. It has a lot of benefits and does a lot for anti-ageing and moisturising. But over the past few days, I’ve been seeing some discourse online about the origination of this ingredient. It’s a little shocking, to say the least. Shocking enough to do a short and quick de-brief in case any of you are also asking the same questions as me: Does squalene really come from shark liver?
First, What Is Squalene?
Squalene is basically an oil that your body creates. It is naturally produced by our sebaceous glands and helps hydrate as well as maintain the barrier of our skin. This multifaceted hydration tool locks moisture into the skin and keeps fine lines as well as dry skin at bay.
The thing about squalene, though, is that its production declines as we age. By the time you’re thirty, your body is barely producing the amount it used to. That’s why its counterpart, squalane is a popular ingredient in skincare products that claim to be ‘anti-ageing’.
Squalane is the hydrogenated version of squalene. The latter has a very short shelf life and is an unstable element that oxidises when exposed to the air. Alternatively, squalane is much more stable, does not oxidise, and extravagantly extends the shelf life of products.
So Where Does The Squalane For Squalene Come From?
For the longest time, squalane came from sharks. Yeah, you heard that right. One of the main components of shark liver is squalene! In fact, one of the main components in most deep-sea mammal livers is squalene.
To break it down, sharks have large oily livers that aid in buoyancy. And, a shark’s liver can be up to 25% of its total weight, often making it the biggest organ in their body.
While a lot of sharks were ruthlessly massacred in the name of cosmetic perfection, I am happy to inform you that the vegan versions of squalene have gained tremendous popularity over the years. Olives, rice bran, and sugarcane are now the most popular choices for squalene. Most brands find it easier to use these than go hunting for an endangered species.
What Is It Good For?
Squalane deeply moisturises your skin and is beneficial for your nails as well as your hair. The oils and creams with squalane also fight skin damage and free radicals. It is also a detoxifier and antioxidant. Regular use can further boost collagen production. Here are a few products with vegan squalane you can love and trust.
The shift of squalane from a shark-derived ingredient to a sustainable beauty staple preserves marine life and offers us peace of mind, knowing that skin rejuvenation routine does not come at the cost of the environment. Ideally, let’s try to keep it that way.
Featured Image: Unsplash, pexels