Squalane oil has gained a important place in the skincare market, celebrated for its power to hydrate, protect, and rejuvenate the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid naturally produced in human skin cells, squalane oil is a stabilized version of squalene, offering improved longevity. That said, not all squalane oil is the same. Its source plays a crucial role in determining its ethics and environmental impact.
Breaking Down the Origins of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil can be derived from a pair of major origins: animal-derived and botanical-based materials. The preference between these options carries significant ethical implications.
Squalane Oil from Animal Sources
Traditionally, squalane oil was commonly sourced from shark-derived squalene. Sharks are known to be natural source of squalene, which is converted into squalane oil. Unfortunately, this method has severe ethical consequences. Millions of sharks are harvested on a massive scale for their livers, causing the depletion of shark populations and damaging marine ecosystems. Moreover, the practices used are highly unethical and have been widely criticized.
Why Botanical Squalane Oil is the Ethical Choice
In contrast, botanical-based squalane oil is a more responsible and environmentally conscious option. It is extracted from plants, eliminating the need on animal harvesting. This method not only aligns with ethical practices but also delivers a high-quality product for skincare routines.
Plant-Based Squalane Oil: Olive vs. Sugarcane
Among botanical-based squalane oils, a pair of categories stand out: squalane oil from olives and sugarcane-derived squalane oil. While each offer botanical alternatives, their environmental impact is not the same.
The Benefits of Olive-Derived Squalane Oil
Olive-derived squalane oil is considered preferable for sustainable reasons. Olives are a sustainable resource that are minimally wasteful. On top of that, olive squalane oil provides equally excellent hydrating and skin-rejuvenating properties as squalane oil from sugarcane.
The Environmental Downside of Sugarcane-Derived Squalane Oil
By comparison, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is linked to notable environmental challenges. Sugarcane farming uses massive amounts of water and often produces waste. Thus, it is environmentally taxing than squalane oil from olives.
Squalane Oil: A Skin Savior
Squalane oil offers countless benefits for every skin type. Here’s why it is so highly regarded in skincare:
Deep Hydration: Squalane oil seeps thoroughly into the skin, offering long-lasting hydration without clogging pores.
Balancing for Oily Skin: Its lightweight texture ensures it’s a great choice for even the oiliest skin.
Fights Signs of Aging: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil reduces the appearance of squalane oil pure wrinkles and fine lines while protecting against free radicals.
Soothing for Sensitive Skin: Its mild formulation soothes sensitivity, making it ideal for easily irritated skin.
Why Squalane Oil Deserves a Spot in Your Routine
Whether you have oily, combination skin, squalane oil offers incredible results. By choosing ethical options, specifically olive-derived squalane oil, you support ethical practices but also ensure your beauty routine includes a superior products available.