Squalane oil has secured a prominent place in the skincare world, celebrated for its capacity to nourish, defend, 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 moral standing and effect on the planet.
Breaking Down the Origins of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil can be obtained from multiple major origins: sourced from animals and plant-derived materials. The choice between these sources is essential to consider for ethics and sustainability.
Squalane Oil from Animal Sources
Traditionally, squalane oil was frequently sourced from shark liver oil. Sharks are known to be repository of squalene, which is converted into squalane oil. Sadly, this practice has major ethical consequences. Millions of sharks are harvested on a massive scale for their livers, leading to the depletion of shark populations and destabilizing marine ecosystems. In addition, the methods used are inhumane and are environmentally destructive.
Botanical-Based Squalane Oil
In contrast, botanical-based squalane oil is a more responsible and planet-friendly solution. It is extracted from plants, removing dependency on animal harvesting. This method ensures humane sourcing but also results in a high-quality product for skincare use.
Plant-Based Squalane Oil: Olive vs. Sugarcane
Among vegetable-sourced squalane oils, two categories stand out: olive-based squalane oil and sugarcane-derived squalane oil. While each offer botanical alternatives, their eco-friendliness is not the same.
Olive Squalane: A Superior Choice
Olive-derived squalane oil is widely regarded as the superior choice for ethical considerations. Olives are a plentiful resource that require less water. Additionally, olive squalane oil provides equally excellent hydrating and skin-rejuvenating qualities as squalane oil from sugarcane.
The Environmental Downside of Sugarcane-Derived Squalane Oil
On the other hand, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is linked to notable environmental challenges. Sugarcane production uses massive amounts of water and often causes waste. This makes it less eco-friendly than olive-derived options.
Why Squalane Oil is Good for Your Skin
Squalane oil offers a plethora of advantages for all skin types. Here’s why it shines in skincare:
Skin-Quenching Properties: Squalane oil absorbs deeply into the skin, offering profound hydration without clogging pores.
Perfect for Combination Skin: Its lightweight texture keeps it 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 protecting against free radicals.
Gentle Yet Effective: Its mild formulation eases irritation, keeping it perfect for reactive skin.
Why Squalane Oil Deserves a Spot in Your Routine
Whether you have dry, combination skin, squalane oil offers remarkable benefits. By choosing plant-based options, especially olive-derived squalane oil, you embrace sustainability but also ensure your oils like squalane beauty routine includes a highly effective solutions available.