Squalane oil has secured a prominent place in the skincare world, 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 hydrogenated version of squalene, offering enhanced stability. That said, not all squalane oil is the same. Its origin plays a significant role in determining its ethics and environmental impact.
Understanding the Sources of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil can be derived from a pair of primary origins: animal-based and botanical-based materials. The preference between these categories carries significant ethical implications.
Animal-Based Squalane Oil
In the past, squalane oil was commonly extracted from shark-derived squalene. Sharks are an abundant provider of squalene, which is processed into squalane oil. Unfortunately, this approach has major ethical issues. Millions of sharks are harvested every year for their livers, causing the depletion of shark populations and destabilizing marine ecosystems. In addition, the processes used are highly unethical and have been widely criticized.
Why Botanical Squalane Oil is the Ethical Choice
In contrast, botanical-based squalane oil is a sustainable and environmentally conscious alternative. It is produced from plants, eliminating the need on animal slaughter. This option ensures humane sourcing but also delivers a high-quality product for skincare applications.
Understanding Botanical Squalane Oil Sources
Among plant-derived squalane oils, a pair of categories stand out: olive-based squalane oil and sugarcane-based squalane oil. While these two offer plant-based choices, their environmental impact varies greatly.
The Benefits of Olive-Derived Squalane Oil
Olive-derived squalane oil is widely regarded as better for ethical purposes. Olives are a plentiful resource that are minimally wasteful. Additionally, olive squalane oil provides the same hydrating and skin-rejuvenating benefits as its sugarcane-derived counterpart.
Environmental Concerns with Sugarcane Squalane Oil
On the other hand, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is linked to notable environmental challenges. Sugarcane cultivation uses large quantities of water and often causes waste. As a result, it becomes 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 stands out in skincare:
Deep Hydration: Squalane oil seeps efficiently into the skin, delivering effective hydration without clogging pores.
Balancing for Oily Skin: Its lightweight texture ensures it’s suitable for even the oiliest skin.
Reduces Fine Lines: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil reduces the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while guarding against free radicals.
Calming for Irritated Skin: Its pure formulation reduces redness, making it perfect for delicate skin.
Why Squalane Oil Deserves a Spot in Your Routine
Whether you have oily, mature skin, squalane oil offers unparalleled results. By choosing botanical options, especially olive-derived squalane oil, you support ethical practices but also give your complexion a highly effective products available.