Squalane oil has secured a prominent place in the skincare industry, admired for its ability to hydrate, protect, and revitalize the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid organically created in human skin cells, squalane oil is a stabilized version of squalene, offering a longer shelf life. However, not all squalane oil is the same. Its source plays a key role in determining its ethics and effect on the planet.
Breaking Down the Origins of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil can be sourced from a pair of primary origins: animal-based and botanical-based materials. The choice between these sources has serious ethical ramifications.
Animal-Based Squalane Oil
Historically, squalane oil was often sourced from shark liver oil. Sharks are a significant provider of squalene, which is processed into squalane oil. Sadly, this practice has serious ethical consequences. Millions of sharks are killed every year for their livers, causing the depletion of shark populations and destabilizing marine ecosystems. Moreover, the practices used are highly unethical and raise global concerns.
The Rise of Plant-Based Squalane Oil
In contrast, vegetable-based squalane oil is a sustainable and eco-friendly option. It is produced from plants, eliminating the need on animal slaughter. This option addresses animal welfare concerns but also delivers a high-quality product for skincare use.
Understanding Botanical Squalane Oil Sources
Among plant-derived squalane oils, a pair of categories stand out: olive-derived squalane oil and sugarcane-based squalane oil. While both offer botanical alternatives, their environmental impact varies greatly.
Olive Squalane: A Superior Choice
Olive-derived squalane oil is widely regarded as the superior choice for environmental reasons. Olives are a renewable resource that require less water. What’s more, olive squalane oil provides equally excellent hydrating and skin-rejuvenating properties as squalane oil from sugarcane.
The Environmental Downside of Sugarcane-Derived Squalane Oil
In contrast, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is responsible for notable eco-concerns. Sugarcane cultivation consumes excessive volumes of water and often produces environmental degradation. As a result, it becomes unsustainable than olive-derived options.
The Skincare Benefits of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil offers a plethora of skin-enhancing qualities for every skin type. Here’s why it is so highly regarded in skincare:
Deep Hydration: Squalane oil absorbs efficiently into the skin, delivering effective hydration without causing breakouts.
Perfect for Combination Skin: Its lightweight texture keeps it ideal for even the oiliest skin.
Reduces Fine Lines: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil reduces the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while protecting against free radicals.
Gentle Yet Effective: Its natural formulation reduces squalane oil q+a redness, rendering it great for delicate skin.
Why Squalane Oil Deserves a Spot in Your Routine
Whether you have sensitive, normal skin, squalane oil offers incredible results. By choosing plant-based options, specifically olive-derived squalane oil, you support ethical practices but also give your complexion a highly effective ingredients available.