Squalane oil has gained a vital place in the skincare industry, praised for its capacity to moisturize, shield, and rejuvenate the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid innately found in human skin cells, squalane oil is a hydrogenated version of squalene, offering a longer shelf life. Still, not all squalane oil is of the same quality. Its origin plays a key role in determining its ethics and eco-friendliness.
Breaking Down the Origins of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil can be derived from a pair of major categories: animal-derived and vegetable-sourced materials. The decision between these categories carries significant ethical implications.
Squalane Oil from Animal Sources
Traditionally, squalane oil was often extracted from the livers of sharks. Sharks are known to be natural source of squalene, which is processed into squalane oil. Regrettably, this approach has major ethical consequences. Millions of sharks are harvested annually for their livers, contributing to the depletion of shark populations and damaging marine ecosystems. Moreover, the processes used are unsustainable and raise global concerns.
Botanical-Based Squalane Oil
In contrast, vegetable-based squalane oil is an ethical and eco-friendly alternative. It is extracted from plants, avoiding reliance on animal harvesting. This approach addresses animal welfare concerns but also results in a high-quality product for skincare applications.
Understanding Botanical Squalane Oil Sources
Among botanical-based squalane oils, a pair of types stand out: squalane oil from olives and squalane oil from sugarcane. While these two offer plant-based options, their environmental impact differs significantly.
Olive Squalane: A Superior Choice
Olive-derived squalane oil is widely regarded as preferable for environmental purposes. Olives are a sustainable resource that generate fewer emissions. Additionally, olive squalane oil provides equally excellent hydrating and skin-rejuvenating properties as other plant-based oils.
The Environmental Downside of Sugarcane-Derived Squalane Oil
In contrast, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is responsible for substantial issues. Sugarcane cultivation requires massive amounts of water and often produces environmental degradation. As a result, it becomes unsustainable than olive-derived options.
Squalane Oil: A Skin Savior
Squalane oil offers numerous skin-enhancing qualities for every skin type. Here’s why it stands out in skincare:
Skin-Quenching Properties: Squalane oil penetrates deeply into the skin, delivering long-lasting hydration without causing breakouts.
Perfect for Combination Skin: Its lightweight texture ensures it’s suitable for those with combination skin.
Reduces Fine Lines: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil reduces the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while guarding against free radicals.
Calming for Irritated Skin: Its pure formulation soothes sensitivity, keeping it ideal for easily irritated skin.
Final Thoughts
Whether you have oily, mature skin, squalane oil delivers incredible benefits. By choosing ethical options, especially olive-derived squalane oil, you support sustainability but also give your complexion a superior products available.