Squalane oil has gained a prominent place in the skincare world, admired for its ability to moisturize, defend, and renew the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid naturally produced in human skin cells, squalane oil is a refined version of squalene, offering improved longevity. However, not all squalane oil is of the same quality. Its origin plays a key role in determining its sustainability and effect on the planet.
Breaking Down the Origins of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil can be obtained from two key sources: animal-based and plant-derived materials. The preference between these categories carries significant ethical implications.
The Controversy of Animal-Based Squalane Oil
Historically, squalane oil was commonly sourced from the livers of sharks. Sharks are a significant repository of squalene, which is converted into squalane oil. Unfortunately, this approach has major ethical consequences. Millions of sharks are slaughtered on a massive scale for their livers, contributing to the depletion of shark populations and destabilizing marine ecosystems. Furthermore, the practices used are unsustainable and raise global concerns.
Botanical-Based Squalane Oil
In contrast, plant-derived squalane oil is a sustainable and planet-friendly solution. It is produced from plants, eliminating the need on animal harvesting. This option addresses animal welfare concerns but also results in a safe and effective product for skincare use.
Understanding Botanical Squalane Oil Sources
Among botanical-based squalane oils, two primary types stand out: olive-derived squalane oil and sugarcane-derived squalane oil. While these two offer plant-based choices, their eco-friendliness varies greatly.
Olive Squalane: A Superior Choice
Olive-derived squalane oil is viewed as the superior choice for ethical considerations. Olives are a renewable resource that require less water. What’s more, olive squalane oil offers comparable hydrating and skin-rejuvenating properties as squalane oil from sugarcane.
The Environmental Downside of Sugarcane-Derived Squalane Oil
By comparison, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is responsible for substantial issues. Sugarcane farming uses large quantities of water and often produces waste. As a result, it becomes less eco-friendly than squalane oil from olives.
The Skincare Benefits of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil offers a plethora of benefits for every skin type. Here’s why it is so highly regarded in skincare:
Skin-Quenching Properties: Squalane oil penetrates thoroughly into the skin, providing profound hydration without clogging pores.
Balancing for Oily Skin: Its lightweight texture keeps it ideal for those with combination skin.
Anti-Aging Properties: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil helps to combat the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while shielding against free radicals.
Calming for Irritated Skin: Its pure formulation reduces redness, making it great for easily irritated skin.
Why Squalane Oil Deserves a Spot in Your Routine
Whether you have oily, combination skin, squalane oil provides incredible advantages. By choosing botanical options, most notably olive-derived squalane oil, you embrace sustainability but also give your complexion a highly effective ingredients available.