Squalane oil has gained a vital place in the skincare world, admired for its ability to hydrate, protect, and renew 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. Still, not all squalane oil is the same. Its derivation plays a key role in determining its ethics and eco-friendliness.
Understanding the Sources of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil can be sourced from two key categories: sourced from animals and botanical-based materials. The preference between these sources has serious ethical ramifications.
Animal-Based Squalane Oil
Historically, squalane oil was frequently sourced from the livers of sharks. Sharks are an abundant provider of squalene, which is converted into squalane oil. Unfortunately, this approach has serious ethical problems. Millions of sharks are harvested annually for their livers, leading to the depletion of shark populations and destabilizing marine ecosystems. Furthermore, the practices used are highly unethical and are environmentally destructive.
The Rise of Plant-Based Squalane Oil
In contrast, botanical-based squalane oil is a more responsible and environmentally conscious alternative. It is extracted from plants, eliminating the need on animal slaughter. This option ensures humane sourcing but also produces a high-quality product for skincare use.
Two Key Sources of Botanical Squalane Oil
Among botanical-based squalane oils, two primary categories stand out: olive-derived squalane oil and sugarcane-based squalane oil. While these two offer botanical alternatives, their environmental impact differs significantly.
Olive Squalane: A Superior Choice
Olive-derived squalane oil is viewed as better for environmental reasons. Olives are a plentiful resource that require less water. On top of that, olive squalane oil offers comparable hydrating and skin-rejuvenating properties as other plant-based oils.
Why Sugarcane Squalane Oil Falls Short
By comparison, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is responsible for notable issues. Sugarcane cultivation uses large quantities of water and often produces environmental degradation. This makes it environmentally taxing than olive-derived options.
Squalane Oil: A Skin Savior
Squalane oil offers countless skin-enhancing qualities for every skin type. Here’s why it is so highly regarded in skincare:
Deep Hydration: Squalane oil absorbs efficiently into the skin, offering long-lasting hydration without leaving a greasy residue.
Perfect for Combination Skin: Its lightweight texture keeps it a great choice for those with combination skin.
Anti-Aging Properties: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil helps to combat the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while guarding against free radicals.
Soothing for Sensitive Skin: Its pure formulation soothes sensitivity, making it ideal for reactive skin.
Final Thoughts
Whether you have sensitive, normal skin, squalane oil delivers incredible benefits. By choosing plant-based options, most notably olive-derived squalane oil, you support sustainability but also ensure your beauty routine includes a highly effective ingredients available.