Squalane oil has secured a important place in the skincare world, admired for its power to moisturize, defend, and rejuvenate the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid organically created in human skin cells, squalane oil is a refined version of squalene, offering enhanced stability. That said, not all squalane oil is created equal. Its origin plays a significant 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 origins: animal-derived and botanical-based materials. The preference between these sources has serious ethical ramifications.
Squalane Oil from Animal Sources
In the past, squalane oil was frequently derived from the livers of sharks. Sharks are known to be repository of squalene, which is transformed into squalane oil. Sadly, this approach has major ethical consequences. Millions of sharks are harvested annually for their livers, leading to the depletion of shark populations and damaging marine ecosystems. In addition, the practices used are inhumane and raise global concerns.
The Rise of Plant-Based Squalane Oil
In contrast, vegetable-based squalane oil is an ethical and eco-friendly solution. It is produced from plants, removing dependency on animal harvesting. This method not only aligns with ethical practices but also results in a high-quality product for skincare use.
Plant-Based Squalane Oil: Olive vs. Sugarcane
Among botanical-based squalane oils, a pair of types stand out: olive-based squalane oil and sugarcane-based squalane oil. While each offer botanical alternatives, their eco-friendliness varies greatly.
Olive Squalane: A Superior Choice
Olive-derived squalane oil is viewed as better for environmental purposes. Olives are a sustainable resource that require less water. What’s more, olive squalane oil offers equally excellent hydrating and skin-rejuvenating properties as its sugarcane-derived counterpart.
The Environmental Downside of Sugarcane-Derived Squalane Oil
On the other hand, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is linked to substantial eco-concerns. Sugarcane cultivation requires excessive volumes of water and often causes pollution. As a result, it becomes unsustainable than olive-derived options.
The Skincare Benefits of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil offers a plethora of advantages for all skin types. Here’s why it stands out in skincare:
Intense Moisture: Squalane oil absorbs efficiently into the skin, delivering profound squalane oil fungal acne hydration without causing breakouts.
Balancing for Oily Skin: Its lightweight texture ensures it’s ideal for even the oiliest skin.
Anti-Aging Properties: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil minimizes the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while guarding against free radicals.
Soothing for Sensitive Skin: Its mild formulation reduces redness, making it ideal for delicate skin.
Why Squalane Oil Deserves a Spot in Your Routine
Whether you have dry, mature skin, squalane oil delivers incredible advantages. By choosing botanical options, specifically olive-derived squalane oil, you support ethical practices but also ensure your beauty routine includes a highly effective products available.