Squalane oil has secured a prominent place in the skincare world, admired for its capacity to hydrate, defend, and rejuvenate the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid organically created in human skin cells, squalane oil is a refined version of squalene, offering a longer shelf life. Still, not all squalane oil is created equal. Its origin plays a significant role in determining its ethics and eco-friendliness.
Where Squalane Oil Comes From
Squalane oil can be sourced from multiple key categories: animal-based and plant-derived materials. The choice between these categories is essential to consider for ethics and sustainability.
Squalane Oil from Animal Sources
Traditionally, squalane oil was commonly sourced from the livers of sharks. Sharks are a significant provider of squalene, which is transformed into squalane oil. Unfortunately, this approach has major ethical consequences. Millions of sharks are harvested annually for their livers, causing the depletion of shark populations and damaging marine ecosystems. In addition, the methods used are highly unethical and have been widely criticized.
Botanical-Based Squalane Oil
In contrast, plant-derived squalane oil is an ethical and planet-friendly solution. It is sourced from plants, eliminating the need on animal sacrifice. This method addresses animal welfare concerns but also delivers a premium-grade product for skincare applications.
Two Key Sources of Botanical Squalane Oil
Among vegetable-sourced squalane oils, a pair of sources stand out: squalane oil from olives and sugarcane-derived squalane oil. While each offer plant-based alternatives, their sustainability is not the same.
Olive Squalane: A Superior Choice
Olive-derived squalane oil is viewed as the superior choice for ethical reasons. Olives are a renewable resource that generate fewer emissions. On top of that, olive squalane oil provides the same hydrating and skin-rejuvenating benefits as its sugarcane-derived counterpart.
The Environmental Downside of Sugarcane-Derived Squalane Oil
In contrast, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is responsible for substantial issues. Sugarcane cultivation uses massive amounts of water and often results in waste. Thus, it is unsustainable than squalane oil from olives.
Squalane Oil: A Skin Savior
Squalane oil offers countless skin-enhancing qualities for varied complexions. Here’s why it is so highly regarded in skincare:
Deep Hydration: Squalane oil absorbs thoroughly into the skin, offering profound hydration without clogging pores.
Non-Comedogenic Benefits: Its lightweight texture keeps it ideal for all skin types, including oily skin.
Reduces Fine Lines: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil minimizes the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while shielding against free radicals.
Gentle Yet Effective: Its pure formulation eases irritation, rendering it ideal for reactive skin.
Final Thoughts
Whether you have dry, combination skin, squalane oil provides remarkable benefits. By choosing ethical options, especially olive-derived squalane oil, you support eco-consciousness but also treat your skin to one of the best products available.