Squalane oil has gained a important place in the skincare market, admired for its power to hydrate, defend, and renew the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid naturally produced in human skin cells, squalane oil is a stabilized version of squalene, offering enhanced stability. However, not all squalane oil is the same. Its derivation plays a key role in determining its ethics and effect on the planet.
Where Squalane Oil Comes From
Squalane oil can be sourced from multiple major categories: animal-based and plant-derived materials. The choice between these sources is essential to consider for ethics and sustainability.
Animal-Based Squalane Oil
In the past, squalane oil was frequently derived from shark liver oil. Sharks are a significant repository of squalene, which is transformed into squalane oil. Unfortunately, this method has major ethical issues. Millions of sharks are harvested every year for their livers, leading to the depletion of shark populations and disrupting marine ecosystems. Moreover, the practices used are highly unethical and have been widely criticized.
Why Botanical Squalane Oil is the Ethical Choice
In contrast, botanical-based squalane oil is a sustainable and environmentally conscious option. It is sourced from plants, removing dependency on animal slaughter. This option ensures humane sourcing but also results in a premium-grade product for skincare use.
Understanding Botanical Squalane Oil Sources
Among vegetable-sourced squalane oils, a pair of types stand out: olive-derived squalane oil and squalane oil from sugarcane. While these two offer vegan options, their environmental impact differs significantly.
Olive Squalane: A Superior Choice
Olive-derived squalane oil is considered better for sustainable considerations. Olives are a plentiful resource that are minimally wasteful. Additionally, olive squalane oil provides equally excellent hydrating and skin-rejuvenating benefits as squalane oil from sugarcane.
The Environmental Downside of Sugarcane-Derived Squalane Oil
In contrast, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is linked to notable environmental challenges. Sugarcane farming uses excessive volumes of water and often produces pollution. As a result, it becomes unsustainable than the olive alternative.
The Skincare Benefits of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil offers countless skin-enhancing qualities for varied complexions. Here’s why it shines in skincare:
Deep Hydration: Squalane oil seeps deeply into the skin, providing effective hydration without clogging pores.
Perfect for Combination Skin: Its lightweight texture keeps it a great choice for all skin types, including oily skin.
Reduces Fine Lines: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil reduces the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while guarding against free radicals.
Calming for Irritated Skin: Its mild formulation eases irritation, rendering it perfect for reactive skin.
Final Thoughts
Whether you have sensitive, combination skin, squalane oil delivers remarkable advantages. By choosing botanical options, most notably olive-derived squalane oil, you support ethical practices but also give your complexion a superior solutions available.