Squalane oil has gained a vital place in the skincare market, admired for its ability to moisturize, defend, and renew the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid organically created in human skin cells, squalane oil is a refined version of squalene, offering improved longevity. Still, not all squalane oil is the same. Its derivation plays a significant role in determining its ethics and environmental impact.
Breaking Down the Origins of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil can be sourced from multiple major categories: animal-based and plant-derived materials. The preference between these sources has serious ethical ramifications.
Squalane Oil from Animal Sources
Historically, squalane oil was often derived from shark liver oil. Sharks are known to be repository of squalene, which is converted into squalane oil. Sadly, this approach has severe ethical issues. Millions of sharks are killed annually for their livers, leading to the depletion of shark populations and damaging marine ecosystems. In addition, the practices used are highly unethical and are environmentally destructive.
Why Botanical Squalane Oil is the Ethical Choice
In contrast, botanical-based squalane oil is a more responsible and environmentally conscious solution. It is extracted from plants, removing dependency on animal harvesting. This option ensures humane sourcing but also produces a high-quality product for skincare applications.
Plant-Based Squalane Oil: Olive vs. Sugarcane
Among plant-derived squalane oils, two primary types stand out: squalane oil from olives and sugarcane-based squalane oil. While each offer vegan options, their sustainability differs significantly.
Olive Squalane: A Superior Choice
Olive-derived squalane oil is considered preferable for environmental purposes. Olives are a plentiful resource that are minimally wasteful. What’s more, olive squalane oil offers equally excellent hydrating and skin-rejuvenating qualities as its sugarcane-derived counterpart.
Why Sugarcane Squalane Oil Falls Short
On the other hand, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is responsible for notable eco-concerns. Sugarcane production requires excessive volumes of water and often causes environmental degradation. This makes it unsustainable than the olive alternative.
Squalane Oil: A Skin Savior
Squalane oil offers a plethora of benefits for varied complexions. Here’s why it is so highly regarded in skincare:
Intense Moisture: Squalane oil penetrates deeply into the skin, delivering profound hydration without clogging pores.
Balancing for Oily Skin: Its lightweight texture makes it suitable for all skin types, including oily skin.
Fights Signs of Aging: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil helps to combat the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while shielding against free radicals.
Calming for Irritated Skin: Its natural formulation reduces redness, making it great for reactive skin.
Why Squalane Oil Deserves a Spot in Your Routine
Whether you have oily, normal skin, squalane oil provides unparalleled benefits. By choosing ethical options, especially olive-derived squalane oil, you support eco-consciousness but also treat your skin to one of the best solutions available.