Squalane oil has earned a prominent place in the skincare world, celebrated for its power to hydrate, shield, and revitalize the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid naturally produced in human skin cells, squalane oil is a hydrogenated version of squalene, offering a longer shelf life. Still, not all squalane oil is created equal. Its derivation plays a significant role in determining its ethics and environmental impact.
Where Squalane Oil Comes From
Squalane oil can be sourced from a pair of key categories: animal-based and plant-derived materials. The choice between these sources is essential to consider for ethics and sustainability.
Squalane Oil from Animal Sources
Historically, squalane oil was often derived from shark liver oil. Sharks are a significant repository of squalene, which is transformed into squalane oil. Sadly, this method has severe ethical consequences. Millions of sharks are slaughtered every year for their livers, causing the depletion of shark populations and disrupting marine ecosystems. Furthermore, the practices used are highly unethical and raise global concerns.
Botanical-Based Squalane Oil
In contrast, vegetable-based squalane oil is an ethical and eco-friendly solution. It is extracted from plants, avoiding reliance on animal sacrifice. This approach ensures humane sourcing but also produces a premium-grade product for skincare routines.
Two Key Sources of Botanical Squalane Oil
Among plant-derived squalane oils, a pair of types stand out: olive-based squalane oil and sugarcane-based squalane oil. While both offer botanical choices, their environmental impact varies greatly.
The Benefits of Olive-Derived Squalane Oil
Olive-derived squalane oil is considered the superior choice for environmental reasons. Olives are a renewable resource that generate fewer emissions. Additionally, olive squalane oil offers comparable hydrating and skin-rejuvenating benefits as other plant-based oils.
Why Sugarcane Squalane Oil Falls Short
On the other hand, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is associated with significant eco-concerns. Sugarcane production consumes large quantities of water and often produces waste. As a result, it becomes unsustainable than the olive alternative.
Why Squalane Oil is Good for Your Skin
Squalane oil offers a plethora of benefits for every skin type. Here’s why it stands out in skincare:
Skin-Quenching Properties: Squalane oil seeps thoroughly into the skin, delivering long-lasting hydration without causing breakouts.
Balancing for Oily Skin: Its lightweight texture makes it ideal for even the oiliest skin.
Anti-Aging Properties: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil helps to combat the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while protecting against free radicals.
Calming for Irritated Skin: Its mild formulation eases irritation, rendering it great for reactive skin.
Final Thoughts
Whether you have dry, normal skin, squalane oil delivers unparalleled benefits. By choosing botanical options, specifically olive-derived squalane oil, you support sustainability but also ensure your beauty routine includes a highly effective solutions available.