Squalane oil has gained a important place in the skincare industry, admired for its power to moisturize, 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 a longer shelf life. However, not all squalane oil is of the same quality. Its origin plays a significant role in determining its sustainability and environmental impact.
Where Squalane Oil Comes From
Squalane oil can be sourced from a pair of primary origins: animal-based and botanical-based materials. The decision between these categories is essential to consider for ethics and sustainability.
Animal-Based Squalane Oil
In the past, squalane oil was often extracted from shark liver oil. Sharks are known to be repository of squalene, which is transformed into squalane oil. Regrettably, this method has severe ethical problems. Millions of sharks are slaughtered on a massive scale for their livers, contributing to the depletion of shark populations and disrupting marine ecosystems. Furthermore, the practices used are highly unethical and have been widely criticized.
Botanical-Based Squalane Oil
In contrast, botanical-based squalane oil is an ethical and environmentally conscious solution. It is produced from plants, avoiding reliance on animal sacrifice. This approach not only aligns with ethical practices but also produces a high-quality product for skincare routines.
Two Key Sources of Botanical Squalane Oil
Among plant-derived squalane oils, two primary categories stand out: olive-based squalane oil and sugarcane-derived squalane oil. While these two offer botanical alternatives, their environmental impact varies greatly.
Why Olive-Derived Squalane Oil Stands Out
Olive-derived squalane oil is widely regarded as the superior choice for sustainable considerations. Olives are a sustainable resource that generate fewer emissions. Additionally, olive squalane oil offers the same hydrating and skin-rejuvenating properties as its sugarcane-derived counterpart.
Environmental Concerns with Sugarcane Squalane Oil
In contrast, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is associated with notable eco-concerns. Sugarcane production requires massive amounts of water and often causes environmental degradation. This makes it less eco-friendly than squalane oil from olives.
Why Squalane Oil is Good for Your Skin
Squalane oil offers a plethora of skin-enhancing qualities for all skin types. Here’s why it shines in skincare:
Deep Hydration: Squalane oil seeps efficiently into the skin, offering long-lasting hydration without causing breakouts.
Balancing for Oily Skin: Its lightweight texture ensures it’s suitable for those with combination skin.
Fights Signs of Aging: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil minimizes the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while shielding against free radicals.
Gentle Yet Effective: Its mild formulation eases irritation, keeping it perfect for delicate skin.
Why Squalane Oil Deserves a Spot in Your Routine
Whether you have dry, combination skin, squalane oil delivers remarkable advantages. By choosing botanical options, most notably olive-derived squalane oil, you not only prioritize ethical practices but also give your complexion a superior ingredients available.