Squalane oil has earned a vital place in the skincare market, admired for its capacity to moisturize, defend, and rejuvenate the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid innately found in human skin cells, squalane oil is a stabilized version of squalene, offering enhanced stability. Still, not all squalane oil is of the same quality. Its source plays a crucial role in determining its ethics and effect on the planet.
Breaking Down the Origins of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil can be sourced from two key origins: sourced from animals and plant-derived materials. The choice between these sources has serious ethical ramifications.
Squalane Oil from Animal Sources
Traditionally, squalane oil was commonly sourced from shark-derived squalene. Sharks are a significant natural source of squalene, which is converted into squalane oil. Sadly, this method has severe ethical consequences. Millions of sharks are killed on a massive scale for their livers, contributing to the depletion of shark populations and damaging marine ecosystems. In addition, the methods used are highly unethical and have been widely criticized.
Botanical-Based Squalane Oil
In contrast, vegetable-based squalane oil is a more responsible and environmentally conscious solution. It is extracted from plants, eliminating the need on animal slaughter. This approach ensures humane sourcing but also results in a high-quality product for skincare routines.
Understanding Botanical Squalane Oil Sources
Among plant-derived squalane oils, a pair of sources stand out: olive-based squalane oil and sugarcane-based squalane oil. While both offer vegan options, their sustainability varies greatly.
Olive Squalane: A Superior Choice
Olive-derived squalane oil is widely regarded as better for environmental reasons. Olives are a plentiful resource that are minimally wasteful. Additionally, olive squalane oil offers equally excellent hydrating and skin-rejuvenating benefits as squalane oil from sugarcane.
Why Sugarcane Squalane Oil Falls Short
On the other hand, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is linked to notable eco-concerns. Sugarcane farming uses large quantities of water and often produces pollution. Thus, it is unsustainable than squalane oil from olives.
Squalane Oil: A Skin Savior
Squalane oil offers a plethora of advantages for varied complexions. Here’s why it stands out in skincare:
Intense Moisture: Squalane oil penetrates efficiently into the skin, offering long-lasting hydration without leaving a greasy residue.
Balancing for Oily Skin: Its lightweight texture keeps it ideal for squalane oil low porosity hair all skin types, including oily skin.
Reduces Fine Lines: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil minimizes the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while guarding against free radicals.
Calming for Irritated Skin: Its mild formulation reduces redness, making it ideal for reactive skin.
Why Squalane Oil Deserves a Spot in Your Routine
Whether you have oily, combination skin, squalane oil offers incredible results. By choosing plant-based options, specifically olive-derived squalane oil, you not only prioritize eco-consciousness but also give your complexion one of the best ingredients available.