Squalane oil has earned a important place in the skincare industry, celebrated for its ability to moisturize, protect, and revitalize the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid organically created in human skin cells, squalane oil is a stabilized version of squalene, offering improved longevity. Still, not all squalane oil is the same. Its source plays a key role in determining its sustainability and environmental impact.
Understanding the Sources of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil can be obtained from multiple primary origins: animal-derived and vegetable-sourced materials. The choice between these sources is essential to consider for ethics and sustainability.
The Controversy of Animal-Based Squalane Oil
In the past, squalane oil was often extracted from shark liver oil. Sharks are an abundant repository of squalene, which is transformed into squalane oil. Unfortunately, this practice has major ethical consequences. Millions of sharks are harvested every year for their livers, causing the depletion of shark populations and damaging marine ecosystems. Moreover, the practices used are inhumane and have been widely criticized.
Why Botanical Squalane Oil is the Ethical Choice
In contrast, botanical-based squalane oil is a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative. It is extracted from plants, avoiding reliance on animal slaughter. This option not only aligns with ethical practices but also results in a safe and effective product for skincare routines.
Two Key Sources of Botanical Squalane Oil
Among vegetable-sourced squalane oils, two sources stand out: olive-based squalane oil and squalane oil from sugarcane. While these two offer botanical options, their environmental impact varies greatly.
The Benefits of Olive-Derived Squalane Oil
Olive-derived squalane oil is widely regarded as the superior choice for ethical considerations. Olives are a plentiful resource that require less water. What’s more, olive squalane oil offers comparable hydrating and skin-rejuvenating qualities as its sugarcane-derived counterpart.
Why Sugarcane Squalane Oil Falls Short
In contrast, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is associated with notable environmental challenges. Sugarcane farming requires large quantities of water and often results squalane oil from shark in environmental degradation. As a result, it becomes unsustainable than olive-derived options.
Why Squalane Oil is Good for Your Skin
Squalane oil offers a plethora of skin-enhancing qualities for varied complexions. Here’s why it shines in skincare:
Skin-Quenching Properties: Squalane oil absorbs deeply into the skin, providing profound hydration without causing breakouts.
Balancing for Oily Skin: Its lightweight texture ensures it’s a great choice 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.
Soothing for Sensitive Skin: Its mild formulation reduces redness, keeping it great for easily irritated skin.
Final Thoughts
Whether you have oily, mature skin, squalane oil offers remarkable benefits. By choosing ethical options, most notably olive-derived squalane oil, you support ethical practices but also ensure your beauty routine includes a superior ingredients available.