Squalane oil has secured a vital place in the skincare world, admired for its ability to moisturize, defend, and renew the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid innately found in human skin cells, squalane oil is a stabilized version of squalene, offering a longer shelf life. Still, not all squalane oil is of the same quality. Its source plays a key role in determining its sustainability and effect on the planet.
Understanding the Sources of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil can be obtained from multiple primary categories: animal-based and vegetable-sourced materials. The choice between these categories is essential to consider for ethics and sustainability.
Squalane Oil from Animal Sources
In the past, squalane oil was frequently extracted from shark liver oil. Sharks are an abundant natural source of squalene, which is converted into squalane oil. Sadly, this method has severe ethical issues. Millions of sharks are slaughtered annually for their livers, leading to the depletion of shark populations and damaging marine ecosystems. In addition, the methods used are unsustainable and have been widely criticized.
Why Botanical Squalane Oil is the Ethical Choice
In contrast, plant-derived squalane oil is a sustainable and planet-friendly solution. It is extracted from plants, avoiding reliance on animal sacrifice. This option not only aligns with ethical practices but also produces squalane oil uses a safe and effective product for skincare use.
Plant-Based Squalane Oil: Olive vs. Sugarcane
Among vegetable-sourced squalane oils, a pair of sources stand out: olive-based squalane oil and squalane oil from sugarcane. While these two offer botanical options, their sustainability differs significantly.
Why Olive-Derived Squalane Oil Stands Out
Olive-derived squalane oil is viewed as better for ethical purposes. Olives are a renewable resource that generate fewer emissions. Additionally, olive squalane oil provides equally excellent hydrating and skin-rejuvenating qualities as other plant-based oils.
Environmental Concerns with Sugarcane Squalane Oil
By comparison, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is responsible for substantial environmental challenges. Sugarcane cultivation requires excessive volumes of water and often causes pollution. Thus, it is environmentally taxing than olive-derived options.
Squalane Oil: A Skin Savior
Squalane oil offers numerous advantages for all skin types. Here’s why it shines in skincare:
Skin-Quenching Properties: Squalane oil penetrates thoroughly into the skin, providing profound hydration without clogging pores.
Balancing for Oily Skin: Its lightweight texture makes it suitable for even the oiliest skin.
Anti-Aging Properties: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil reduces the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while shielding against free radicals.
Calming for Irritated Skin: Its mild formulation soothes sensitivity, keeping it great for delicate skin.
Why Squalane Oil Deserves a Spot in Your Routine
Whether you have oily, combination skin, squalane oil offers unparalleled benefits. By choosing ethical options, specifically olive-derived squalane oil, you embrace eco-consciousness but also treat your skin to one of the best solutions available.