Squalane oil has gained a important place in the skincare industry, praised for its power to hydrate, defend, and rejuvenate the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid innately found in human skin cells, squalane oil is a refined version of squalene, offering improved longevity. That said, not all squalane oil is the same. Its derivation plays a key role in determining its sustainability and environmental impact.
Understanding the Sources of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil can be sourced from multiple key sources: animal-based and botanical-based materials. The choice between these options is essential to consider for ethics and sustainability.
Animal-Based Squalane Oil
Traditionally, squalane oil was frequently sourced from the livers of sharks. Sharks are a significant provider of squalene, which is converted into squalane oil. Unfortunately, this method has severe ethical problems. Millions of sharks are harvested every year for their livers, leading to the depletion of shark populations and disrupting marine ecosystems. Furthermore, the processes used are highly unethical and are environmentally destructive.
Why Botanical Squalane Oil is the Ethical Choice
In contrast, vegetable-based squalane oil is an ethical and planet-friendly option. It is sourced from plants, removing dependency on animal sacrifice. This method addresses animal welfare concerns but also produces a premium-grade product for skincare applications.
Two Key Sources of Botanical Squalane Oil
Among vegetable-sourced squalane oils, two sources stand out: squalane oil from olives and sugarcane-based squalane oil. While both offer botanical choices, their eco-friendliness is not the same.
Olive Squalane: A Superior Choice
Olive-derived squalane oil is considered preferable for ethical reasons. Olives are a renewable resource that generate fewer emissions. On top of that, olive squalane oil provides equally excellent hydrating and skin-rejuvenating qualities as its sugarcane-derived counterpart.
Why Sugarcane Squalane Oil Falls Short
On the other hand, sugarcane-derived squalane when should you use squalane oil oil is responsible for significant environmental challenges. Sugarcane farming uses large quantities of water and often results in waste. This makes it less eco-friendly than squalane oil from olives.
The Skincare Benefits of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil offers a plethora of advantages for every skin type. Here’s why it stands out in skincare:
Intense Moisture: Squalane oil penetrates thoroughly into the skin, offering effective hydration without clogging pores.
Perfect for Combination Skin: Its lightweight texture ensures it’s suitable for even the oiliest 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 soothes sensitivity, making it perfect for delicate skin.
Final Thoughts
Whether you have dry, normal skin, squalane oil offers unparalleled benefits. By choosing ethical options, most notably olive-derived squalane oil, you support sustainability but also treat your skin to one of the best products available.