Squalane oil has secured a important place in the skincare world, praised for its ability to hydrate, protect, and rejuvenate the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid organically created in human skin cells, squalane oil is a hydrogenated version of squalene, offering enhanced stability. However, not all squalane oil is of the same quality. Its derivation plays a significant role in determining its ethics and eco-friendliness.
Where Squalane Oil Comes From
Squalane oil can be sourced from a pair of key categories: animal-derived and plant-derived materials. The preference between these categories has serious ethical ramifications.
Animal-Based Squalane Oil
Historically, squalane oil was frequently sourced from shark liver oil. Sharks are an abundant provider of squalene, which is processed into squalane oil. Regrettably, this approach has severe ethical consequences. Millions of sharks are slaughtered annually for their livers, leading to the depletion of shark populations and destabilizing marine ecosystems. In addition, the methods used are highly unethical and raise global concerns.
The Rise of Plant-Based Squalane Oil
In contrast, plant-derived squalane oil is a more responsible and eco-friendly alternative. It is produced from plants, avoiding reliance on animal slaughter. This method not only aligns with ethical practices but also produces a high-quality product for skincare use.
Two Key Sources of Botanical Squalane Oil
Among plant-derived squalane oils, two categories stand out: olive-based squalane oil and sugarcane-based squalane oil. While both offer plant-based alternatives, their sustainability is not the same.
Olive Squalane: A Superior Choice
Olive-derived squalane oil is viewed as preferable for ethical reasons. Olives are a plentiful resource that are minimally wasteful. What’s more, olive squalane oil retains comparable hydrating and skin-rejuvenating qualities as its sugarcane-derived counterpart.
The Environmental Downside of Sugarcane-Derived Squalane Oil
By comparison, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is associated with significant eco-concerns. Sugarcane production requires massive amounts of squalane oil pronounce water and often causes environmental degradation. Thus, it is less eco-friendly than olive-derived options.
The Skincare Benefits of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil offers a plethora of benefits for every skin type. Here’s why it shines in skincare:
Deep Hydration: Squalane oil seeps thoroughly into the skin, offering profound hydration without causing breakouts.
Balancing for Oily Skin: Its lightweight texture keeps it ideal for those with combination skin.
Fights Signs of Aging: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil reduces the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while shielding against free radicals.
Soothing for Sensitive Skin: Its pure formulation reduces redness, making it ideal for delicate skin.
Why Squalane Oil Deserves a Spot in Your Routine
Whether you have sensitive, combination skin, squalane oil provides unparalleled benefits. By choosing ethical options, most notably olive-derived squalane oil, you support eco-consciousness but also treat your skin to one of the best ingredients available.