Squalane oil has secured a prominent place in the skincare market, celebrated for its power to hydrate, protect, and revitalize the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid naturally produced in human skin cells, squalane oil is a refined version of squalene, offering improved longevity. However, not all squalane oil is created equal. Its origin plays a significant role in determining its sustainability and effect on the planet.
Understanding the Sources of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil can be sourced from two key categories: animal-based and botanical-based materials. The preference between these sources is essential to consider for ethics and sustainability.
Animal-Based Squalane Oil
Historically, squalane oil was commonly derived from shark-derived squalene. Sharks are an abundant repository of squalene, which is processed into squalane oil. Regrettably, this approach has major ethical issues. Millions of sharks are killed 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.
The Rise of Plant-Based Squalane Oil
In contrast, vegetable-based squalane oil is a more responsible and eco-friendly solution. It is produced from plants, removing dependency on animal harvesting. This approach ensures humane sourcing but also delivers a premium-grade product for skincare use.
Understanding Botanical Squalane Oil Sources
Among botanical-based squalane oils, two primary types stand out: squalane oil from olives and sugarcane-derived squalane oil. While these two offer botanical alternatives, their eco-friendliness differs significantly.
The Benefits of Olive-Derived Squalane Oil
Olive-derived squalane oil is viewed as better for environmental purposes. Olives are a renewable resource that generate fewer emissions. On top of that, olive squalane oil offers comparable hydrating and skin-rejuvenating properties as other plant-based oils.
Why Sugarcane Squalane Oil Falls Short
In contrast, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is linked to significant environmental challenges. Sugarcane cultivation requires excessive volumes of water and often produces environmental degradation. As a result, it becomes less eco-friendly than squalane oil from olives.
Squalane Oil: A Skin Savior
Squalane oil offers countless advantages for all skin types. Here’s why it stands out in skincare:
Intense Moisture: Squalane oil seeps deeply into the skin, providing long-lasting hydration without causing breakouts.
Perfect for Combination Skin: Its lightweight texture makes it a great choice for those with combination skin.
Fights Signs of Aging: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil helps to combat the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while protecting against free radicals.
Gentle Yet Effective: Its natural formulation reduces redness, making it ideal for reactive skin.
Final Thoughts
Whether you have sensitive, normal skin, squalane oil delivers remarkable benefits. By choosing ethical options, most notably olive-derived squalane oil, you support ethical practices but also give your complexion one of the best solutions available.