Squalane oil has gained a important place in the skincare world, admired for its capacity to nourish, defend, and renew the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid innately found in human skin cells, squalane oil is a refined version of squalene, offering enhanced stability. Still, not all squalane oil is of the same quality. Its derivation plays a crucial role in determining its moral standing and eco-friendliness.
Breaking Down the Origins of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil can be derived from multiple primary categories: sourced from animals and vegetable-sourced materials. The choice between these categories carries significant ethical implications.
The Controversy of Animal-Based Squalane Oil
Traditionally, squalane oil was commonly sourced from the livers of sharks. Sharks are known to be natural source of squalene, which is processed into squalane oil. Regrettably, this method has severe ethical issues. Millions of sharks are harvested annually for their livers, leading to the depletion of shark populations and squalane oil nails disrupting marine ecosystems. Moreover, the practices used are unsustainable 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, avoiding reliance on animal slaughter. This approach not only aligns with ethical practices but also produces a safe and effective product for skincare applications.
Plant-Based Squalane Oil: Olive vs. Sugarcane
Among plant-derived squalane oils, a pair of types stand out: squalane oil from olives and squalane oil from sugarcane. While these two offer plant-based options, their sustainability differs significantly.
Olive Squalane: A Superior Choice
Olive-derived squalane oil is viewed as the superior choice for sustainable reasons. Olives are a renewable resource that require less water. On top of that, olive squalane oil offers comparable hydrating and skin-rejuvenating properties as squalane oil from sugarcane.
Why Sugarcane Squalane Oil Falls Short
By comparison, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is associated with notable environmental challenges. Sugarcane cultivation requires large quantities of water and often causes pollution. This makes it unsustainable than olive-derived options.
Squalane Oil: A Skin Savior
Squalane oil offers countless advantages for every skin type. Here’s why it shines in skincare:
Skin-Quenching Properties: Squalane oil seeps efficiently into the skin, offering effective hydration without clogging pores.
Non-Comedogenic Benefits: Its lightweight texture ensures it’s suitable for all skin types, including oily skin.
Anti-Aging Properties: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil reduces the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while protecting against free radicals.
Calming for Irritated Skin: Its pure formulation eases irritation, making it great for reactive skin.
Why Squalane Oil Deserves a Spot in Your Routine
Whether you have sensitive, mature skin, squalane oil delivers incredible advantages. By choosing plant-based options, especially olive-derived squalane oil, you not only prioritize sustainability but also treat your skin to a superior products available.