Squalane oil has gained a important place in the skincare world, celebrated for its ability to moisturize, protect, and revitalize the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid organically created in human skin cells, squalane oil is a stabilized version of squalene, offering improved longevity. That said, not all squalane oil is of the same quality. Its derivation plays a key role in determining its sustainability and effect on the planet.
Breaking Down the Origins of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil can be obtained from a pair of key categories: animal-derived and botanical-based materials. The choice between these categories is essential to consider for ethics and sustainability.
Animal-Based Squalane Oil
In the past, squalane oil was frequently extracted from shark liver oil. Sharks are a significant provider of squalene, which is transformed into squalane oil. Unfortunately, this practice has major ethical issues. Millions of sharks are slaughtered every year for their livers, leading to the depletion of shark populations and destabilizing marine ecosystems. Furthermore, the methods used are highly unethical and are environmentally destructive.
Why Botanical Squalane Oil is the Ethical Choice
In contrast, botanical-based squalane oil is an ethical and environmentally conscious alternative. It is extracted from plants, removing dependency on animal harvesting. This approach ensures humane sourcing but also produces a high-quality product for skincare applications.
Two Key Sources of Botanical Squalane Oil
Among botanical-based squalane oils, two primary sources stand out: olive-derived squalane oil and squalane oil from sugarcane. While both offer botanical choices, their environmental impact is not the same.
Olive Squalane: A Superior Choice
Olive-derived squalane oil is considered better for sustainable reasons. Olives are a sustainable resource that require less water. On top of that, olive squalane oil offers comparable hydrating and skin-rejuvenating properties as other plant-based oils.
Why Sugarcane Squalane Oil Falls Short
By comparison, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is linked to significant eco-concerns. Sugarcane production uses large quantities of water and often produces environmental degradation. Thus, it is unsustainable than olive-derived options.
The Skincare Benefits of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil offers a plethora of benefits for all skin types. Here’s why it stands out in skincare:
Intense Moisture: Squalane oil penetrates thoroughly into the skin, offering profound hydration without clogging pores.
Non-Comedogenic Benefits: Its lightweight texture ensures it’s suitable for even the oiliest skin.
Reduces Fine Lines: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil helps to combat the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while shielding against free radicals.
Calming for Irritated Skin: Its pure formulation reduces redness, making it perfect for easily irritated skin.
Final Thoughts
Whether you have oily, combination skin, squalane oil provides remarkable benefits. By choosing ethical options, specifically olive-derived squalane oil, you not only prioritize sustainability but also treat your skin to a highly effective ingredients available.