Squalane oil has secured a important place in the skincare world, admired for its ability to nourish, defend, and revitalize 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. Still, not all squalane oil is the same. Its derivation plays a significant role in determining its moral standing and effect on the planet.
Breaking Down the Origins of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil can be obtained from two key sources: animal-derived and vegetable-sourced materials. The decision between these categories carries significant ethical implications.
The Controversy of Animal-Based Squalane Oil
Historically, squalane oil was often sourced from shark liver oil. Sharks are known to be provider of squalene, which is converted into squalane oil. Unfortunately, this method has serious ethical issues. Millions of sharks are harvested annually for their livers, contributing to the depletion of shark populations and damaging marine ecosystems. Furthermore, the processes used are highly unethical and raise global concerns.
Botanical-Based Squalane Oil
In contrast, plant-derived squalane oil is a sustainable and environmentally conscious alternative. It is extracted from plants, eliminating the need on animal harvesting. This method addresses animal welfare concerns but also produces a premium-grade product for skincare applications.
Two Key Sources of Botanical Squalane Oil
Among vegetable-sourced squalane oils, two primary categories stand out: olive-based squalane oil and sugarcane-based squalane oil. While both offer plant-based options, their eco-friendliness varies greatly.
Olive Squalane: A Superior Choice
Olive-derived squalane oil is considered better for ethical purposes. Olives are a renewable resource that require less water. What’s more, olive squalane oil retains equally excellent hydrating and skin-rejuvenating benefits as its sugarcane-derived counterpart.
Why Sugarcane Squalane Oil Falls Short
On the other hand, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is linked to significant issues. Sugarcane production uses excessive volumes of water and often results in environmental degradation. As a result, it becomes less eco-friendly than the olive alternative.
The Skincare Benefits of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil offers countless skin-enhancing qualities for all skin types. Here’s why it stands out in skincare:
Intense Moisture: Squalane oil absorbs efficiently into the skin, providing profound hydration without clogging pores.
Perfect for Combination Skin: Its lightweight texture ensures it’s a great choice for all skin types, including oily skin.
Fights Signs of Aging: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil reduces the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while shielding against free radicals.
Calming for Irritated Skin: Its natural formulation eases irritation, making it perfect for delicate skin.
Why Squalane Oil Deserves a Spot in Your Routine
Whether you have dry, normal skin, squalane oil provides remarkable advantages. By choosing plant-based options, most notably olive-derived squalane oil, you support ethical practices but also give your complexion one of the best solutions available.