Squalane oil has secured a important place in the skincare industry, celebrated for its power to hydrate, defend, and rejuvenate 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. That said, not all squalane oil is the same. Its derivation plays a key role in determining its ethics and eco-friendliness.
Understanding the Sources of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil can be obtained from two primary sources: sourced from animals and vegetable-sourced materials. The choice between these categories has serious ethical ramifications.
Squalane Oil from Animal Sources
Historically, squalane oil was commonly extracted from the livers of sharks. Sharks are known to be provider of squalene, which is processed into squalane oil. Sadly, this practice has serious ethical issues. Millions of sharks are slaughtered annually for their livers, causing the depletion of shark populations and destabilizing marine ecosystems. Moreover, the practices used are highly unethical and are environmentally destructive.
Why Botanical Squalane Oil is the Ethical Choice
In contrast, botanical-based squalane oil is a more responsible and environmentally conscious alternative. It is produced from plants, avoiding reliance on animal harvesting. This approach ensures humane sourcing but also produces a premium-grade product for skincare routines.
Understanding Botanical Squalane Oil Sources
Among vegetable-sourced squalane oils, two sources stand out: olive-based squalane oil and sugarcane-based squalane oil. While each offer botanical choices, their sustainability is not the same.
Olive Squalane: A Superior Choice
Olive-derived squalane oil is widely regarded as preferable for sustainable reasons. Olives are a sustainable resource that require less water. Additionally, olive squalane oil offers equally excellent hydrating and skin-rejuvenating benefits as other plant-based oils.
The Environmental Downside of Sugarcane-Derived Squalane Oil
On the other hand, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is associated with significant issues. Sugarcane production consumes excessive volumes of water and often results in environmental degradation. This makes it less eco-friendly than olive-derived options.
Why Squalane Oil is Good for Your Skin
Squalane oil offers a plethora of advantages for every skin type. Here’s why it shines in skincare:
Skin-Quenching Properties: Squalane oil absorbs thoroughly into the skin, providing effective hydration without clogging pores.
Perfect for Combination Skin: Its lightweight texture ensures it’s a great choice 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 mild formulation eases irritation, rendering it great for easily irritated skin.
Final Thoughts
Whether you have oily, normal skin, squalane oil offers remarkable advantages. By choosing plant-based options, specifically olive-derived squalane oil, you support sustainability but also treat your skin to a superior ingredients available.