Squalane oil has secured a prominent place in the skincare industry, celebrated for its ability to hydrate, defend, and renew the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid innately found 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 source plays a significant role in determining its ethics and environmental impact.
Breaking Down the Origins of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil can be obtained from multiple major origins: animal-based and plant-derived materials. The preference between these options has serious ethical ramifications.
Squalane Oil from Animal Sources
Historically, squalane oil was often sourced from shark liver oil. Sharks are known to be repository of squalene, which is converted into squalane oil. Sadly, this method has serious ethical problems. Millions of sharks are slaughtered on a massive scale for their livers, causing the depletion of shark populations and disrupting marine ecosystems. Furthermore, the methods used are inhumane and raise global concerns.
The Rise of Plant-Based Squalane Oil
In contrast, vegetable-based squalane oil is a sustainable and planet-friendly solution. It is extracted from plants, removing dependency on animal harvesting. This method not only aligns with ethical practices but also delivers a premium-grade product for skincare use.
Two Key Sources of Botanical Squalane Oil
Among plant-derived squalane oils, two primary categories stand out: olive-based squalane oil and sugarcane-based squalane oil. While both offer botanical options, their environmental impact varies greatly.
Why Olive-Derived Squalane Oil Stands Out
Olive-derived squalane oil is considered better for ethical considerations. Olives are a sustainable resource that require less water. What’s more, olive squalane oil offers the same hydrating and skin-rejuvenating properties as squalane oil from sugarcane.
Environmental Concerns with Sugarcane Squalane Oil
By comparison, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is responsible for substantial issues. Sugarcane cultivation uses large quantities of water and often results in pollution. As a result, it becomes less eco-friendly than the olive alternative.
Why Squalane Oil is Good for Your Skin
Squalane oil offers a plethora of advantages for varied complexions. Here’s why it stands out in skincare:
Intense Moisture: Squalane oil penetrates efficiently into the skin, providing profound hydration without clogging pores.
Balancing for Oily Skin: Its lightweight texture makes it suitable for all skin types, including squalane oil source oily skin.
Anti-Aging Properties: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil minimizes the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while guarding against free radicals.
Soothing for Sensitive Skin: Its mild formulation reduces redness, keeping it great for easily irritated skin.
Final Thoughts
Whether you have oily, combination skin, squalane oil offers unparalleled advantages. By choosing plant-based options, most notably olive-derived squalane oil, you support ethical practices but also ensure your beauty routine includes a highly effective products available.