Squalane oil has earned a prominent place in the skincare world, celebrated for its capacity to nourish, defend, and rejuvenate the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid organically created in human skin cells, squalane oil is a hydrogenated version of squalene, offering enhanced stability. Still, not all squalane oil is of the same quality. Its derivation plays a key role in determining its sustainability and environmental impact.
Understanding the Sources of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil can be sourced from multiple primary sources: animal-based and vegetable-sourced materials. The preference between these sources has serious ethical ramifications.
Squalane Oil from Animal Sources
In the past, squalane oil was often derived from shark-derived squalene. Sharks are an abundant natural source of squalene, which is transformed into squalane oil. Unfortunately, this approach has major ethical problems. Millions of sharks are harvested annually for their livers, contributing to the depletion of shark populations and destabilizing marine ecosystems. Furthermore, 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 planet-friendly solution. It is sourced from plants, removing dependency on animal slaughter. This option addresses animal welfare concerns but also results in a premium-grade product for skincare routines.
Understanding Botanical Squalane Oil Sources
Among vegetable-sourced squalane oils, a pair of sources stand out: squalane oil from olives and squalane oil from sugarcane. While both offer plant-based choices, their environmental impact varies greatly.
Olive Squalane: A Superior Choice
Olive-derived squalane oil is considered preferable for sustainable reasons. Olives are a plentiful resource that require less water. What’s more, olive squalane oil retains equally excellent hydrating and skin-rejuvenating benefits as its sugarcane-derived counterpart.
The Environmental Downside of Sugarcane-Derived Squalane Oil
On the other hand, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is associated with substantial environmental challenges. Sugarcane farming requires excessive volumes of water and often produces pollution. This makes it less eco-friendly than olive-derived options.
Squalane Oil: A Skin Savior
Squalane oil offers countless skin-enhancing qualities for varied complexions. Here’s why it shines in skincare:
Intense Moisture: Squalane oil penetrates thoroughly into the skin, providing long-lasting hydration without causing breakouts.
Non-Comedogenic Benefits: Its lightweight texture ensures it’s ideal for even the oiliest skin.
Anti-Aging Properties: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil helps to combat the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while guarding against free radicals.
Gentle Yet Effective: Its natural formulation soothes sensitivity, keeping it perfect for easily irritated skin.
Final Thoughts
Whether you have oily, mature skin, squalane oil offers unparalleled benefits. By choosing ethical options, specifically olive-derived squalane oil, you support sustainability but also give your complexion a superior products available.