Squalane oil has gained a vital place in the skincare industry, celebrated for its power to hydrate, shield, and rejuvenate the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid naturally produced in human skin cells, squalane oil is a stabilized version of squalene, offering enhanced stability. However, not all squalane oil is of the same quality. 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 major categories: animal-based and vegetable-sourced materials. The preference between these options has serious ethical ramifications.
The Controversy of Animal-Based Squalane Oil
Traditionally, squalane oil was commonly sourced from the livers of sharks. Sharks are a significant provider of squalene, which is converted into squalane oil. Unfortunately, this approach has major ethical consequences. Millions of sharks are harvested every year for their livers, causing the depletion of shark populations and disrupting marine ecosystems. Moreover, the processes used are inhumane and are environmentally destructive.
Why Botanical Squalane Oil is the Ethical Choice
In contrast, botanical-based squalane oil is an ethical and eco-friendly option. It is extracted from plants, eliminating the need on animal harvesting. This method not only aligns with ethical practices but also produces a premium-grade product for skincare applications.
Two Key Sources of Botanical Squalane Oil
Among plant-derived squalane oils, a pair of types stand out: olive-based squalane oil and sugarcane-based squalane oil. While both offer vegan choices, their sustainability is not the same.
Olive Squalane: A Superior Choice
Olive-derived squalane oil is widely regarded as the superior choice for sustainable considerations. Olives are a plentiful resource that require less water. What’s more, olive squalane oil retains equally excellent hydrating and skin-rejuvenating benefits as other plant-based oils.
Why Sugarcane Squalane Oil Falls Short
On the other hand, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is responsible for notable eco-concerns. Sugarcane production consumes excessive volumes of water and often results in waste. Thus, it is environmentally taxing than squalane oil from olives.
Squalane Oil: A Skin Savior
Squalane oil offers a plethora of skin-enhancing qualities for all skin types. Here’s why it shines in skincare:
Deep Hydration: Squalane oil absorbs deeply into the skin, providing profound hydration without leaving a greasy residue.
Non-Comedogenic Benefits: Its lightweight texture keeps it suitable for those with combination skin.
Reduces Fine Lines: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil reduces the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while shielding against free radicals.
Gentle Yet Effective: squalane oil large Its natural formulation soothes sensitivity, rendering it perfect for delicate skin.
Why Squalane Oil Deserves a Spot in Your Routine
Whether you have dry, combination skin, squalane oil offers remarkable benefits. By choosing botanical options, especially olive-derived squalane oil, you embrace ethical practices but also ensure your beauty routine includes one of the best ingredients available.