Squalane Vs. Squalene

What is Squalane made from?

Squalane is derived from plant sources including sugar-cane and olives. At Bella GLOW we use a form that is derived from olives.

What is Squalene made from?

Squalene, however, is traditionally sourced from the liver of deep-sea sharks. These animals are hunted for the substance because it is considered the richest source, which continues to endanger some species of deep-sea sharks. We know, it's so horrible and so sad that this is the "cost-effective" way to some corporations. Unfortunately, squalene harvesting from sharks is not banned and still happens today, due to squalene being about 30% cheaper than Squalane from plant sources.

At Bella GLOW, there is no price difference that would convince us to use a product that is so harmful to a huge part of our ecosystem. To our surprise, still 90% of the cosmetic industry continues to source squalene from shark livers, accounting for nearly 3 million deep-sea sharks being killed each year to meet the needs of the demand for it.

How to Know Your Squalane is Vegan

Always ensure that the brand you are buying from is cruelty-free. This is the biggest telltale sign of Squalane vs. Squalene. If it does not say that it is vegan or cruelty-free, you can probably guess that it is in fact Squalene oil and made from shark livers.

Be sure that your new oil specifies that it is derived from plant extracts, and always check your ingredients! If you can’t recognize an ingredient name, and a quick search doesn’t satisfy you, then it’s probably best to skip that product. One brand that you can be sure is safe for both you and the environment, is Bella GLOW.

Is Squalane the same as olive oil?

While Squalane comes from olives, it is made by refining and purifying olive oil, so it is part of the whole. Olive oil is a very heavy substance and is not suitable for all skin types to use. The heaviness can lead to clogged pores which will just leave you with more damaged skin. Olive oil can also have a very unappealing scent to some individuals.

Olive Squalane Benefits for Skin

Squalane is perfect for all skin types, especially sensitive skin. It is lightweight and allows the skin to breathe with no irritation. Squalane has proven to cause virtually no issues due to it being odorless, colorless, and the lack of allergic reactions reported.

It’s a natural antioxidant and helps keep your skin supple, youthful looking, and hydrated. But as we age, squalene production tends to decline. Because it mimics our skin’s natural oils; it can help promote youthful, supple, radiant skin; and it’s a great choice for all skin types. Squalane prevents sun UV damage and age spots from forming, and promotes cell growth and is also an antibacterial.

When You Should Use Squalane

We recommend using your Squalane Oil after cleansing and toning, but before your moisturizer or Night Cream. Or you can add your oil into your moisturizer! You can use this both day and night, but if we had to choose one time of day, it would be at night.

Remember when “slugging” was trending? Try it out with your Squalane Oil and reap the benefits with just one use! We recommend using a serum in the morning as it is less sticky and obviously less oily. Check out this blog post on the difference between serums and oils.

How to Use Squalane

After cleaning and toning, pump 6-7 drops onto your fingertips and press the oil into your skin. We recommend this as opposed to rubbing, allowing the oil to penetrate deeper into your skin instead of just resting on the surface. Apply to your entire face, neck, and hands if desired.

Squalane is best used on your face as part of a daily routine. Remember to buy 100% pure. Squalane and avoid unnecessary additives or chemicals. This product is Eco-conscious, Vegan, Plant Based and Cruelty-Free.