Squalane oil has secured a vital place in the skincare world, celebrated for its capacity to hydrate, defend, and rejuvenate 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 source plays a key role in determining its sustainability and environmental impact.
Understanding the Sources of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil can be derived from two primary categories: animal-derived and botanical-based materials. The preference between these sources carries significant ethical implications.
The Controversy of Animal-Based Squalane Oil
In the past, squalane oil was commonly extracted from shark liver oil. Sharks are an abundant provider of squalene, which is processed into squalane oil. Unfortunately, this approach has major ethical problems. Millions of sharks are killed on a massive scale for their livers, causing the depletion of shark populations and damaging marine ecosystems. Moreover, the processes used are highly unethical and raise global concerns.
Why Botanical Squalane Oil is the Ethical Choice
In contrast, botanical-based squalane oil is a sustainable and planet-friendly option. It is extracted from plants, removing dependency on animal harvesting. This option ensures humane sourcing but also produces a safe and effective product for skincare routines.
Plant-Based Squalane Oil: Olive vs. Sugarcane
Among plant-derived squalane oils, two sources stand out: olive-based squalane oil and sugarcane-based squalane oil. While these two offer botanical choices, their sustainability differs significantly.
Olive Squalane: A Superior Choice
Olive-derived squalane oil is considered better for sustainable purposes. Olives are a sustainable resource that require less water. Additionally, olive squalane oil retains equally excellent hydrating and skin-rejuvenating benefits as its sugarcane-derived counterpart.
Environmental Concerns with Sugarcane Squalane Oil
In contrast, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is linked to notable issues. Sugarcane farming consumes large quantities of water and often results in pollution. Thus, it is unsustainable than squalane oil from olives.
Squalane Oil: A Skin Savior
Squalane oil offers numerous skin-enhancing qualities for every skin type. Here’s why it shines in skincare:
Intense Moisture: Squalane oil penetrates thoroughly into the skin, offering effective hydration without clogging pores.
Perfect for Combination Skin: Its lightweight texture ensures it’s suitable for all skin types, including oily skin.
Fights Signs of Aging: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil reduces the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while guarding against free radicals.
Calming for Irritated Skin: Its pure formulation soothes sensitivity, keeping it great for easily irritated skin.
Final Thoughts
Whether you have sensitive, normal skin, squalane oil provides unparalleled advantages. By choosing botanical options, most notably olive-derived squalane oil, you support ethical practices but also give your complexion a highly effective ingredients available.