Squalane oil has gained a vital place in the skincare market, celebrated for its power to moisturize, shield, and renew the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid innately found in human skin cells, squalane oil is a hydrogenated version of squalene, offering a longer shelf life. Still, not all squalane oil is created equal. Its derivation plays a significant role in determining its ethics and effect on the planet.
Understanding the Sources of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil can be obtained from multiple key sources: sourced from animals and vegetable-sourced materials. The decision between these sources is essential to consider for ethics and sustainability.
The Controversy of Animal-Based Squalane Oil
In the past, squalane oil was commonly extracted from the livers of sharks. Sharks are a significant provider of squalene, which is converted into squalane oil. Unfortunately, this practice has major ethical issues. Millions of sharks are slaughtered on a massive scale for their livers, leading to the depletion of shark populations and destabilizing marine ecosystems. Moreover, the methods used are unsustainable and have been widely criticized.
Why Botanical Squalane Oil is the Ethical Choice
In contrast, vegetable-based squalane oil is an ethical and planet-friendly alternative. It is extracted from plants, avoiding reliance on animal harvesting. This method not only aligns with ethical practices but also results in a high-quality product for skincare applications.
Two Key Sources of Botanical Squalane Oil
Among plant-derived squalane oils, a pair of sources stand out: olive-derived squalane oil and sugarcane-based squalane oil. While these two offer botanical choices, their environmental impact varies greatly.
Olive Squalane: A Superior Choice
Olive-derived squalane oil is widely regarded as the superior choice for ethical reasons. Olives are a sustainable resource that are minimally wasteful. On top of that, olive squalane oil retains equally excellent hydrating and skin-rejuvenating benefits as its sugarcane-derived counterpart.
Environmental Concerns with Sugarcane Squalane Oil
On the other hand, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is linked to notable environmental challenges. Sugarcane farming requires large quantities of water and often results in pollution. Thus, it is environmentally taxing than the olive alternative.
Squalane Oil: A Skin Savior
Squalane oil offers countless skin-enhancing qualities for varied complexions. Here’s why it stands out in skincare:
Deep Hydration: Squalane oil absorbs deeply into the skin, providing long-lasting hydration without clogging pores.
Non-Comedogenic Benefits: Its lightweight texture makes it a great choice for even the oiliest skin.
Reduces Fine Lines: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil reduces the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while shielding against free radicals.
Calming for Irritated Skin: Its pure formulation eases irritation, keeping it ideal for reactive skin.
Final Thoughts
Whether you have sensitive, combination skin, squalane oil offers unparalleled benefits. By choosing botanical options, especially olive-derived squalane oil, you support sustainability but also give your complexion one of the best ingredients available.