Squalane oil has gained a vital place in the skincare world, praised for its capacity to moisturize, protect, and rejuvenate the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid organically created in human skin cells, squalane oil is a hydrogenated version of squalene, offering a longer shelf life. Still, not all squalane oil is the same. Its derivation plays a key role in determining its ethics and environmental impact.
Understanding the Sources of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil can be derived from two major sources: sourced from animals and botanical-based materials. The preference between these options is essential to consider for ethics and sustainability.
Animal-Based Squalane Oil
Traditionally, squalane oil was commonly extracted from the livers of sharks. Sharks are an abundant natural source of squalene, which is converted into squalane oil. Sadly, this approach has severe ethical issues. Millions of sharks are harvested on a massive scale for their livers, contributing to the depletion of shark populations and destabilizing marine ecosystems. Furthermore, the processes used are unsustainable and raise global concerns.
Botanical-Based Squalane Oil
In contrast, plant-derived squalane oil is a more responsible and eco-friendly solution. It is sourced from plants, avoiding reliance on animal sacrifice. This approach ensures humane sourcing but also produces a safe and effective product for skincare routines.
Two Key Sources of Botanical Squalane Oil
Among vegetable-sourced squalane oils, a pair of sources stand out: squalane oil from olives and squalane oil from sugarcane. While these two offer botanical options, their eco-friendliness is not the same.
The Benefits of Olive-Derived Squalane Oil
Olive-derived squalane oil is viewed as the superior choice for environmental reasons. Olives are a sustainable resource that generate fewer emissions. What’s more, olive squalane oil provides comparable hydrating and skin-rejuvenating benefits as squalane oil from sugarcane.
Why Sugarcane Squalane Oil Falls Short
On the other hand, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is associated with notable eco-concerns. Sugarcane cultivation consumes massive amounts of water and often results in pollution. This makes it environmentally taxing than olive-derived options.
Squalane Oil: A Skin Savior
Squalane oil offers a plethora of benefits for every skin type. Here’s why it is so highly regarded in skincare:
Intense Moisture: Squalane oil seeps thoroughly into the skin, offering effective hydration without leaving a greasy residue.
Perfect for Combination Skin: Its lightweight texture ensures it’s suitable for even the oiliest skin.
Reduces Fine Lines: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil reduces the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while protecting against free radicals.
Calming for Irritated Skin: Its mild formulation reduces redness, rendering it ideal for easily irritated skin.
Final Thoughts
Whether you have sensitive, normal skin, squalane oil provides incredible advantages. By choosing botanical options, especially olive-derived squalane oil, you support eco-consciousness but also give your complexion a highly effective products available.