Squalane oil has gained a important place in the skincare market, praised for its capacity to hydrate, protect, and revitalize the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid organically created in human skin cells, squalane oil is a refined version of squalene, offering improved longevity. Still, not all squalane oil is the same. Its derivation plays a significant role in determining its sustainability and effect on the planet.
Breaking Down the Origins of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil can be sourced from multiple primary categories: animal-based and vegetable-sourced materials. The decision between these categories carries significant ethical implications.
Squalane Oil from Animal Sources
Historically, squalane oil was commonly extracted from the livers of sharks. Sharks are an abundant natural source of squalene, which is processed into squalane oil. Unfortunately, this approach has major 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. Moreover, the practices used are highly unethical and are environmentally destructive.
The Rise of Plant-Based Squalane Oil
In contrast, botanical-based squalane oil is a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative. It is sourced from plants, avoiding reliance on animal sacrifice. This option ensures humane sourcing but also delivers a premium-grade product for skincare routines.
Plant-Based Squalane Oil: Olive vs. Sugarcane
Among botanical-based squalane oils, a pair of sources stand out: olive-based squalane oil and sugarcane-derived squalane oil. While each offer botanical choices, their sustainability is not squalane oil ingredients the same.
Olive Squalane: A Superior Choice
Olive-derived squalane oil is considered the superior choice for sustainable purposes. Olives are a plentiful resource that are minimally wasteful. What’s more, olive squalane oil offers equally excellent hydrating and skin-rejuvenating properties as its sugarcane-derived counterpart.
Environmental Concerns with Sugarcane Squalane Oil
In contrast, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is responsible for notable issues. Sugarcane farming uses massive amounts of water and often causes pollution. Thus, it is environmentally taxing than squalane oil from olives.
The Skincare Benefits of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil offers countless skin-enhancing qualities for all skin types. Here’s why it is so highly regarded in skincare:
Skin-Quenching Properties: Squalane oil absorbs deeply into the skin, delivering long-lasting hydration without clogging pores.
Balancing for Oily Skin: Its lightweight texture ensures it’s ideal for those with combination skin.
Reduces Fine Lines: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil reduces the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while protecting against free radicals.
Gentle Yet Effective: Its mild formulation eases irritation, keeping it ideal for easily irritated skin.
Why Squalane Oil Deserves a Spot in Your Routine
Whether you have sensitive, combination skin, squalane oil offers remarkable benefits. By choosing botanical options, especially olive-derived squalane oil, you support sustainability but also give your complexion a superior ingredients available.