Squalane oil has earned a vital place in the skincare world, admired for its power to hydrate, defend, and rejuvenate the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid naturally produced in human skin cells, squalane oil is a refined version of squalene, offering enhanced stability. However, not all squalane oil is the same. Its origin plays a crucial role in determining its moral standing and effect on the planet.
Understanding the Sources of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil can be obtained from a pair of major categories: animal-derived and botanical-based materials. The choice between these sources carries significant ethical implications.
Animal-Based Squalane Oil
Traditionally, squalane oil was commonly sourced from the livers of sharks. Sharks are a significant provider of squalene, which is processed into squalane oil. Regrettably, this approach has serious ethical consequences. Millions of sharks are killed annually for their livers, causing the depletion of shark populations and damaging marine ecosystems. Furthermore, the processes used are unsustainable and raise global concerns.
Botanical-Based Squalane Oil
In contrast, botanical-based squalane oil is an ethical and environmentally conscious alternative. It is produced from plants, removing dependency on animal harvesting. This option ensures humane sourcing but also results in a premium-grade product for skincare routines.
Understanding Botanical Squalane Oil Sources
Among plant-derived squalane oils, a pair of sources stand out: olive-based squalane oil and sugarcane-derived squalane oil. While these two offer botanical options, their environmental impact varies greatly.
Why Olive-Derived Squalane Oil Stands Out
Olive-derived squalane oil is widely regarded as preferable for environmental reasons. Olives are a plentiful resource that are minimally wasteful. What’s more, olive squalane oil provides comparable hydrating and skin-rejuvenating benefits as its sugarcane-derived counterpart.
Environmental Concerns with Sugarcane Squalane Oil
By comparison, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is linked to substantial environmental challenges. Sugarcane farming consumes massive amounts of water and often causes environmental degradation. As a result, it becomes environmentally taxing than squalane oil from olives.
Why Squalane Oil is Good for Your Skin
Squalane oil offers a plethora of skin-enhancing qualities for varied complexions. Here’s why it stands out in skincare:
Intense Moisture: Squalane oil absorbs efficiently into the skin, offering effective hydration without leaving a greasy residue.
Balancing for Oily Skin: Its lightweight texture keeps it ideal for even the oiliest skin.
Fights Signs of Aging: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil minimizes the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while shielding against free radicals.
Calming for Irritated Skin: Its natural formulation eases irritation, rendering it perfect for reactive skin.
Why Squalane Oil Deserves a Spot in Your Routine
Whether you have sensitive, normal skin, squalane oil offers remarkable results. By choosing plant-based options, especially olive-derived squalane oil, you not only prioritize ethical practices but also give your complexion one of the best ingredients available.