Squalane oil has earned a prominent place in the skincare world, admired for its capacity to hydrate, defend, and revitalize the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid innately found in human skin cells, squalane oil is a refined version of squalene, offering a longer shelf life. That said, not all squalane oil is the same. Its origin plays a significant role in determining its ethics and environmental impact.
Breaking Down the Origins of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil can be sourced from two major categories: sourced from animals and botanical-based materials. The choice between these categories is essential to consider for ethics and sustainability.
Squalane Oil from Animal Sources
In the past, squalane oil was frequently extracted from shark liver oil. Sharks are an abundant provider of squalene, which is processed into squalane oil. Unfortunately, this method has serious ethical issues. Millions of sharks are killed every year for their livers, causing the depletion of shark populations and disrupting marine ecosystems. Moreover, the processes used are highly unethical and are environmentally destructive.
Botanical-Based Squalane Oil
In contrast, plant-derived squalane oil is a sustainable and eco-friendly option. It is extracted from plants, removing dependency on animal slaughter. This option addresses animal welfare concerns but also results in a safe and effective product for skincare applications.
Understanding Botanical Squalane Oil Sources
Among plant-derived squalane oils, two types stand out: squalane oil from olives and sugarcane-based squalane oil. While both offer botanical choices, their sustainability is not the same.
Olive Squalane: A Superior Choice
Olive-derived squalane oil is considered preferable for environmental reasons. Olives are a renewable resource that are minimally wasteful. Additionally, olive squalane oil offers comparable hydrating and skin-rejuvenating benefits as squalane oil from sugarcane.
Environmental Concerns with Sugarcane Squalane Oil
By comparison, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is associated with substantial eco-concerns. Sugarcane farming consumes excessive volumes of water and often produces pollution. As a result, it becomes less eco-friendly than olive-derived options.
The Skincare Benefits of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil offers countless benefits for varied complexions. Here’s why it stands out in skincare:
Intense Moisture: Squalane squalane oil clog pores oil seeps efficiently into the skin, providing profound hydration without causing breakouts.
Perfect for Combination Skin: Its lightweight texture ensures it’s ideal for all skin types, including oily skin.
Fights Signs of Aging: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil minimizes the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while shielding against free radicals.
Gentle Yet Effective: Its natural formulation eases irritation, making it great for easily irritated skin.
Why Squalane Oil Deserves a Spot in Your Routine
Whether you have sensitive, normal skin, squalane oil delivers remarkable benefits. By choosing plant-based options, specifically olive-derived squalane oil, you not only prioritize eco-consciousness but also treat your skin to a superior products available.