Squalane oil has gained a prominent place in the skincare industry, praised for its capacity to hydrate, shield, and revitalize the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid innately found in human skin cells, squalane oil is a stabilized version of squalene, offering improved longevity. However, not all squalane oil is of the same quality. Its origin plays a significant role in determining its ethics and eco-friendliness.
Where Squalane Oil Comes From
Squalane oil can be derived from a pair of major sources: animal-based and botanical-based materials. The choice between these categories has serious ethical ramifications.
Squalane Oil from Animal Sources
In the past, squalane oil was often sourced from the livers of sharks. Sharks are an abundant natural source of squalene, which is processed into squalane oil. Sadly, this practice has serious ethical problems. Millions of sharks are slaughtered annually for their livers, leading to the depletion of shark populations and damaging marine ecosystems. In addition, the methods used are highly unethical and have been widely criticized.
The Rise of Plant-Based Squalane Oil
In contrast, plant-derived squalane oil is an ethical and environmentally conscious option. It is sourced from plants, removing dependency on animal sacrifice. This option addresses animal welfare concerns but also results in a premium-grade product for skincare applications.
Understanding Botanical Squalane Oil Sources
Among plant-derived squalane oils, two types stand out: squalane oil from olives and sugarcane-derived squalane oil. While these two offer botanical options, their environmental impact varies greatly.
Olive Squalane: A Superior Choice
Olive-derived squalane oil is viewed as the superior choice for ethical reasons. Olives are a plentiful resource that are minimally wasteful. Additionally, olive squalane oil provides 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 linked to significant eco-concerns. Sugarcane cultivation requires large quantities of water and often causes pollution. This makes it less eco-friendly than squalane oil from olives.
Squalane Oil: A Skin Savior
Squalane oil offers countless skin-enhancing qualities for varied complexions. Here’s why it is so highly regarded in skincare:
Skin-Quenching Properties: Squalane oil penetrates thoroughly into the skin, offering effective hydration without causing breakouts.
Perfect for Combination Skin: Its lightweight texture ensures it’s a great choice for all skin types, including oily skin.
Reduces Fine Lines: Rich squalane oil vs retinol in antioxidants, squalane oil reduces the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while shielding against free radicals.
Soothing for Sensitive Skin: Its mild formulation soothes sensitivity, rendering it ideal for easily irritated skin.
Why Squalane Oil Deserves a Spot in Your Routine
Whether you have oily, normal skin, squalane oil offers incredible advantages. By choosing ethical options, especially olive-derived squalane oil, you embrace eco-consciousness but also ensure your beauty routine includes a superior products available.