Squalane oil has earned a important place in the skincare market, celebrated for its power to nourish, protect, and revitalize the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid naturally produced 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 derivation plays a crucial role in determining its moral standing and environmental impact.
Breaking Down the Origins of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil can be obtained from a pair of key categories: sourced from animals and vegetable-sourced materials. The choice between these sources is essential to consider for ethics and sustainability.
Animal-Based Squalane Oil
In the past, squalane oil was often derived from the livers of sharks. Sharks are an abundant repository of squalene, which is transformed into squalane oil. Unfortunately, this method has major ethical consequences. Millions of sharks are killed on a massive scale for their livers, contributing to the depletion of shark populations and damaging marine ecosystems. In addition, the methods used are unsustainable and are environmentally destructive.
Why Botanical Squalane Oil is the Ethical Choice
In contrast, botanical-based squalane oil is an ethical and eco-friendly alternative. It is produced from plants, eliminating the need on animal sacrifice. This option ensures humane sourcing but also produces a safe and effective product for skincare routines.
Two Key Sources of Botanical Squalane Oil
Among plant-derived squalane oils, two categories stand out: olive-based squalane oil and sugarcane-derived squalane oil. While both offer plant-based alternatives, their environmental impact varies greatly.
Olive Squalane: A Superior Choice
Olive-derived squalane oil is widely regarded as preferable for environmental reasons. Olives are a renewable resource that require less water. Additionally, olive squalane oil provides equally excellent hydrating and skin-rejuvenating benefits as its sugarcane-derived counterpart.
Environmental Concerns with Sugarcane Squalane Oil
On the other hand, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is associated with substantial eco-concerns. Sugarcane production uses large quantities of water and often produces waste. As a result, it becomes environmentally taxing than the olive alternative.
Squalane Oil: A Skin Savior
Squalane oil offers a plethora of benefits for every skin type. Here’s why it shines in skincare:
Skin-Quenching Properties: Squalane oil penetrates efficiently into the skin, providing effective hydration without causing breakouts.
Perfect for Combination Skin: Its lightweight texture makes it suitable for those with combination skin.
Reduces Fine Lines: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil helps to combat the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while shielding against free radicals.
Soothing for Sensitive Skin: Its pure formulation eases irritation, keeping it perfect for delicate skin.
Final Thoughts
Whether you have dry, normal skin, squalane oil offers incredible results. By choosing plant-based options, specifically olive-derived squalane oil, you support sustainability but also give your complexion one of the best ingredients available.