Squalane oil has gained a important place in the skincare world, admired for its capacity to hydrate, defend, and renew the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid naturally produced in human skin cells, squalane oil is a refined version of squalene, offering a longer shelf life. That said, not all squalane oil is of the same quality. Its derivation plays a key role in determining its ethics and eco-friendliness.
Breaking Down the Origins of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil can be derived from a pair of primary sources: animal-based and vegetable-sourced materials. The preference between these categories is essential to consider for ethics and sustainability.
Animal-Based Squalane Oil
Historically, squalane oil was often sourced from shark liver oil. Sharks are known to be provider of squalene, which is processed into squalane oil. Regrettably, this method has major ethical consequences. Millions of sharks are harvested on a massive scale for their livers, contributing to the depletion of shark populations and destabilizing marine ecosystems. In addition, the practices used are inhumane and are environmentally destructive.
Why Botanical Squalane Oil is the Ethical Choice
In contrast, vegetable-based squalane oil is a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative. It is extracted from plants, avoiding reliance on animal slaughter. This approach addresses animal welfare concerns but also results in a safe and effective product feel squalane facial oil for skincare applications.
Plant-Based Squalane Oil: Olive vs. Sugarcane
Among botanical-based squalane oils, a pair of types stand out: olive-derived squalane oil and sugarcane-derived squalane oil. While both offer botanical choices, their sustainability is not the same.
Olive Squalane: A Superior Choice
Olive-derived squalane oil is widely regarded as preferable for sustainable reasons. Olives are a sustainable resource that are minimally wasteful. Additionally, olive squalane oil provides equally excellent hydrating and skin-rejuvenating qualities as its sugarcane-derived counterpart.
The Environmental Downside of Sugarcane-Derived Squalane Oil
By comparison, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is responsible for substantial eco-concerns. Sugarcane farming requires large quantities of water and often causes pollution. This makes it less eco-friendly than squalane oil from olives.
Why Squalane Oil is Good for Your Skin
Squalane oil offers a plethora of benefits for every skin type. Here’s why it shines in skincare:
Intense Moisture: Squalane oil seeps efficiently into the skin, providing effective hydration without causing breakouts.
Perfect for Combination Skin: Its lightweight texture keeps it suitable for all skin types, including oily skin.
Reduces Fine Lines: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil helps to combat the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while guarding against free radicals.
Soothing for Sensitive Skin: Its natural formulation reduces redness, rendering it perfect for easily irritated skin.
Why Squalane Oil Deserves a Spot in Your Routine
Whether you have dry, normal skin, squalane oil delivers remarkable benefits. By choosing botanical options, especially olive-derived squalane oil, you not only prioritize eco-consciousness but also treat your skin to a superior products available.