Squalane oil has earned a vital place in the skincare world, praised for its capacity to moisturize, protect, and renew the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid innately found in human skin cells, squalane oil is a refined version of squalene, offering enhanced stability. However, not all squalane oil is created equal. Its source plays a key role in determining its moral standing and effect on the planet.
Breaking Down the Origins of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil can be sourced from multiple key origins: animal-based and botanical-based materials. The choice between these options has serious ethical ramifications.
Squalane Oil from Animal Sources
Historically, squalane oil was commonly extracted from shark-derived squalene. Sharks are known to be natural source of squalene, which is transformed into squalane oil. Sadly, this method has major ethical issues. Millions of sharks are harvested every year for their livers, contributing to the depletion of shark populations and disrupting marine ecosystems. Moreover, the practices used are inhumane and are environmentally destructive.
Why Botanical Squalane Oil is the Ethical Choice
In contrast, vegetable-based squalane oil is a sustainable and eco-friendly solution. It is extracted from plants, removing dependency on animal slaughter. This option addresses animal welfare concerns but also delivers a high-quality product for skincare applications.
Two Key Sources of Botanical Squalane Oil
Among plant-derived squalane oils, a pair of categories stand out: olive-based squalane oil and squalane oil from sugarcane. While both offer plant-based choices, their environmental impact varies greatly.
Why Olive-Derived Squalane Oil Stands Out
Olive-derived squalane oil is considered better for environmental reasons. Olives are a sustainable resource that require less water. Additionally, olive squalane oil offers the same hydrating and skin-rejuvenating properties as squalane oil clog pores other plant-based oils.
The Environmental Downside of Sugarcane-Derived Squalane Oil
By comparison, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is linked to substantial environmental challenges. Sugarcane production uses massive amounts of water and often results in waste. Thus, it is environmentally taxing than the olive alternative.
The Skincare Benefits of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil offers numerous skin-enhancing qualities for every skin type. Here’s why it shines in skincare:
Skin-Quenching Properties: Squalane oil absorbs efficiently into the skin, delivering effective hydration without causing breakouts.
Non-Comedogenic Benefits: Its lightweight texture ensures it’s suitable for those with combination skin.
Anti-Aging Properties: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil minimizes the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while protecting against free radicals.
Calming for Irritated Skin: Its pure formulation soothes sensitivity, rendering it ideal for delicate skin.
Why Squalane Oil Deserves a Spot in Your Routine
Whether you have sensitive, normal skin, squalane oil offers incredible advantages. By choosing botanical options, most notably olive-derived squalane oil, you embrace sustainability but also give your complexion one of the best solutions available.