Squalane oil has earned a vital place in the skincare market, celebrated for its capacity to hydrate, shield, and renew the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid naturally produced in human skin cells, squalane oil is a stabilized version of squalene, offering improved longevity. That said, not all squalane oil is created equal. Its source plays a significant role in determining its ethics and environmental impact.
Where Squalane Oil Comes From
Squalane oil can be obtained from multiple key sources: sourced from animals and plant-derived materials. The preference between these sources has serious ethical ramifications.
Animal-Based Squalane Oil
Traditionally, squalane oil was commonly sourced from shark liver oil. Sharks are known to be repository of squalene, which is transformed into squalane oil. Regrettably, this practice has serious ethical issues. Millions of sharks are killed on a massive scale for their livers, leading to the depletion of shark populations and destabilizing marine ecosystems. Moreover, the methods used are inhumane and raise global concerns.
The Rise of Plant-Based Squalane Oil
In contrast, botanical-based squalane oil is a more responsible and planet-friendly solution. It is extracted from plants, eliminating the need 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 botanical-based squalane oils, two primary sources stand out: olive-based squalane oil and sugarcane-based squalane oil. While these two offer vegan alternatives, their eco-friendliness varies greatly.
Why Olive-Derived Squalane Oil Stands Out
Olive-derived squalane oil is considered better for sustainable purposes. Olives are a sustainable resource that require less water. Additionally, olive squalane oil offers the same hydrating and skin-rejuvenating benefits as squalane oil from sugarcane.
The Environmental Downside of squalane oil shark liver Sugarcane-Derived Squalane Oil
On the other hand, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is responsible for substantial environmental challenges. Sugarcane production requires massive amounts of water and often causes environmental degradation. This makes it less eco-friendly than squalane oil from olives.
The Skincare Benefits of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil offers countless benefits for varied complexions. Here’s why it stands out in skincare:
Intense Moisture: Squalane oil absorbs efficiently into the skin, providing effective hydration without clogging pores.
Perfect for Combination Skin: Its lightweight texture makes it suitable for all skin types, including oily skin.
Fights Signs of Aging: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil minimizes the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while shielding against free radicals.
Calming for Irritated Skin: Its mild formulation eases irritation, rendering it great for easily irritated skin.
Why Squalane Oil Deserves a Spot in Your Routine
Whether you have sensitive, mature skin, squalane oil offers remarkable results. By choosing ethical options, most notably olive-derived squalane oil, you embrace sustainability but also treat your skin to one of the best solutions available.