Squalane oil has gained a prominent place in the skincare industry, praised for its capacity to moisturize, shield, and renew the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid innately found in human skin cells, squalane oil is a hydrogenated version of squalene, offering enhanced stability. However, not all squalane oil is the same. Its derivation plays a key role in determining its moral standing and effect on the planet.
Breaking Down the Origins of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil can be sourced from multiple primary categories: sourced from animals and botanical-based materials. The decision between these options is essential to consider for ethics and sustainability.
Animal-Based Squalane Oil
In the past, squalane oil was frequently extracted from shark liver oil. Sharks are known to be natural source of squalene, which is transformed into squalane oil. Sadly, this practice has major ethical consequences. Millions of sharks are slaughtered on a massive scale for their livers, leading to the depletion of shark populations and damaging marine ecosystems. Moreover, the processes used are highly unethical and have been widely criticized.
The Rise of Plant-Based Squalane Oil
In contrast, plant-derived squalane oil is an ethical and eco-friendly solution. It is sourced from plants, eliminating the need on animal harvesting. This method addresses animal welfare concerns but also produces a premium-grade product for skincare applications.
Two Key Sources of Botanical Squalane Oil
Among botanical-based squalane oils, a pair of sources stand out: squalane oil from olives and squalane oil from sugarcane. While these two offer vegan options, their eco-friendliness is not the same.
Olive Squalane: A Superior Choice
Olive-derived squalane oil is considered better for environmental considerations. Olives are a sustainable resource that generate fewer emissions. On top of that, olive squalane oil retains equally excellent hydrating and skin-rejuvenating qualities as other plant-based oils.
Why Sugarcane Squalane Oil Falls Short
On the other hand, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is linked to notable environmental challenges. Sugarcane production requires excessive volumes of water and often causes environmental degradation. Thus, it is unsustainable than olive-derived options.
Squalane Oil: A Skin Savior
Squalane oil offers countless advantages for varied complexions. Here’s why it is so highly regarded in skincare:
Skin-Quenching Properties: Squalane oil penetrates deeply into the skin, providing effective hydration without causing breakouts.
Balancing for Oily Skin: Its lightweight texture makes it ideal for even the oiliest skin.
Fights Signs of Aging: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil reduces the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while shielding against free radicals.
Soothing for Sensitive Skin: Its pure formulation eases irritation, making it ideal for delicate skin.
Why Squalane Oil Deserves a Spot in Your Routine
Whether you have sensitive, normal skin, squalane oil offers incredible advantages. By choosing ethical options, most notably olive-derived squalane oil, you not only prioritize eco-consciousness but also give your complexion one of the best solutions available.