Squalane oil has earned a prominent place in the skincare market, admired for its ability to hydrate, defend, and renew the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid innately found in human skin cells, squalane oil is a stabilized version of squalene, offering a longer shelf life. However, not all squalane oil is created equal. Its source plays a key role in determining its ethics and effect on the planet.
Breaking Down the Origins of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil can be derived from multiple key origins: animal-derived and plant-derived materials. The preference between these sources has serious ethical ramifications.
Squalane Oil from Animal Sources
Traditionally, squalane oil was frequently extracted from shark liver oil. Sharks are an abundant natural source of squalene, which is converted into squalane oil. Sadly, this method has major ethical issues. Millions of sharks are harvested annually for their livers, contributing to the depletion of shark populations and disrupting marine ecosystems. In addition, the processes used are unsustainable and have been widely criticized.
Botanical-Based Squalane Oil
In contrast, vegetable-based squalane oil is a sustainable and eco-friendly option. It is extracted from plants, eliminating the need on animal sacrifice. This method not only aligns with ethical practices but also results in a high-quality product for skincare routines.
Two Key Sources of Botanical Squalane Oil
Among botanical-based squalane oils, two primary sources stand out: squalane oil from olives and sugarcane-based squalane oil. While both offer vegan choices, their environmental impact varies greatly.
The Benefits of Olive-Derived Squalane Oil
Olive-derived squalane oil is considered better for environmental reasons. Olives are a renewable resource that are minimally wasteful. Additionally, olive squalane oil offers comparable hydrating and skin-rejuvenating properties as squalane oil from sugarcane.
Environmental Concerns with Sugarcane Squalane Oil
In contrast, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is associated with notable eco-concerns. Sugarcane production consumes excessive volumes of water and often produces pollution. As a result, it becomes less eco-friendly than squalane oil from olives.
Why Squalane Oil is Good for Your Skin
Squalane oil offers countless skin-enhancing qualities for varied complexions. Here’s why it stands out in skincare:
Intense Moisture: Squalane oil penetrates efficiently into the skin, delivering profound hydration without clogging pores.
Perfect for Combination Skin: Its lightweight texture keeps it suitable for those with combination skin.
Anti-Aging Properties: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil helps to combat the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while protecting against free radicals.
Gentle Yet Effective: Its natural formulation soothes sensitivity, making it great for delicate skin.
Final Thoughts
Whether you have oily, combination skin, squalane oil provides incredible results. By choosing botanical options, especially olive-derived squalane oil, you support sustainability but also treat your skin to one of the best ingredients available.