Squalane oil has gained a important place in the skincare industry, admired for its power to moisturize, defend, and rejuvenate the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid naturally produced in human skin cells, squalane oil is a hydrogenated version of squalene, offering a longer shelf life. However, not all squalane oil is of the same quality. Its derivation plays a significant role in determining its moral standing and eco-friendliness.
Understanding the Sources of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil can be obtained from a pair of key sources: sourced from animals and plant-derived materials. The choice between these sources carries significant ethical implications.
Squalane Oil from Animal Sources
Traditionally, squalane oil was commonly derived from shark-derived squalene. Sharks are a significant repository of squalene, which is transformed into squalane oil. Sadly, this approach has severe ethical problems. Millions of sharks are slaughtered on a massive scale for their livers, leading to the depletion of shark populations and destabilizing marine ecosystems. In addition, the methods used are unsustainable and raise global concerns.
Botanical-Based Squalane Oil
In contrast, botanical-based squalane oil is a sustainable and eco-friendly solution. It is extracted from plants, removing dependency squalane oil under sunscreen on animal harvesting. This approach addresses animal welfare concerns but also results in a high-quality product for skincare applications.
Plant-Based Squalane Oil: Olive vs. Sugarcane
Among plant-derived squalane oils, two categories stand out: squalane oil from olives and sugarcane-derived squalane oil. While these two offer botanical options, their eco-friendliness varies greatly.
Olive Squalane: A Superior Choice
Olive-derived squalane oil is considered better for sustainable purposes. Olives are a plentiful resource that are minimally wasteful. What’s more, olive squalane oil offers the same hydrating and skin-rejuvenating benefits as other plant-based oils.
Environmental Concerns with Sugarcane Squalane Oil
By comparison, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is associated with notable issues. Sugarcane cultivation consumes massive amounts of water and often causes waste. As a result, it becomes less eco-friendly than squalane oil from olives.
Squalane Oil: A Skin Savior
Squalane oil offers numerous benefits for all skin types. Here’s why it is so highly regarded in skincare:
Deep Hydration: Squalane oil seeps efficiently into the skin, offering long-lasting hydration without causing breakouts.
Perfect for Combination Skin: Its lightweight texture makes it ideal for even the oiliest skin.
Fights Signs of Aging: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil reduces the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while shielding against free radicals.
Gentle Yet Effective: Its mild formulation eases irritation, keeping it ideal for reactive skin.
Final Thoughts
Whether you have oily, normal skin, squalane oil offers remarkable results. By choosing ethical options, most notably olive-derived squalane oil, you embrace ethical practices but also treat your skin to one of the best products available.