Squalane oil has secured a important place in the skincare market, praised for its ability to hydrate, shield, and renew the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid naturally produced in human skin cells, squalane oil is a stabilized version of squalene, offering enhanced stability. Still, not all squalane oil is created equal. Its derivation plays a significant role in determining its ethics and eco-friendliness.
Breaking Down the Origins of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil can be obtained from multiple primary sources: animal-based and vegetable-sourced materials. The decision between these categories carries significant ethical implications.
Squalane Oil from Animal Sources
Traditionally, squalane oil was often sourced from the livers of sharks. Sharks are known to be repository of squalene, which is processed into squalane oil. Unfortunately, this approach has serious ethical consequences. Millions of sharks are slaughtered every year for their livers, causing the depletion of shark populations and damaging marine ecosystems. Furthermore, the methods used are unsustainable and have been widely criticized.
Botanical-Based Squalane Oil
In contrast, plant-derived squalane oil is a more responsible and eco-friendly solution. It is produced from plants, avoiding reliance on animal sacrifice. This approach ensures humane sourcing but also delivers a safe and effective product for skincare use.
Plant-Based Squalane Oil: Olive vs. Sugarcane
Among botanical-based squalane oils, two sources stand out: squalane oil from olives and sugarcane-based squalane oil. While each offer vegan options, their sustainability varies greatly.
The Benefits of Olive-Derived Squalane Oil
Olive-derived squalane oil is widely regarded as the superior choice for ethical reasons. Olives are a renewable resource that require less water. What’s more, olive squalane oil retains equally excellent hydrating and skin-rejuvenating qualities as other plant-based oils.
Environmental Concerns with Sugarcane Squalane Oil
By comparison, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is associated with substantial environmental challenges. Sugarcane farming requires excessive volumes of water and often produces environmental degradation. This makes it less eco-friendly than olive-derived options.
The Skincare Benefits of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil offers countless benefits for every skin type. Here’s why it stands out in skincare:
Deep Hydration: Squalane oil absorbs thoroughly into the skin, offering profound hydration without squalane oil for dermaplaning leaving a greasy residue.
Balancing for Oily Skin: Its lightweight texture ensures it’s ideal for all skin types, including oily skin.
Anti-Aging Properties: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil minimizes the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while shielding against free radicals.
Calming for Irritated Skin: Its pure formulation reduces redness, rendering it ideal for delicate skin.
Why Squalane Oil Deserves a Spot in Your Routine
Whether you have sensitive, normal skin, squalane oil provides unparalleled advantages. By choosing plant-based options, specifically olive-derived squalane oil, you support eco-consciousness but also give your complexion a highly effective ingredients available.