Squalane oil has earned a vital place in the skincare world, praised for its capacity to moisturize, protect, and revitalize the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid naturally produced in human skin cells, squalane oil is a hydrogenated version of squalene, offering a longer shelf life. That said, not all squalane oil is of the same quality. Its derivation plays a significant role in determining its moral standing and effect on the planet.
Where Squalane Oil Comes From
Squalane oil can be obtained from multiple major origins: animal-derived and plant-derived materials. The choice between these categories has serious ethical ramifications.
Squalane Oil from Animal Sources
Traditionally, squalane oil was frequently sourced from shark-derived squalene. Sharks are known to be repository of squalene, which is converted into squalane oil. Unfortunately, this approach has major ethical issues. Millions of sharks are harvested on a massive scale for their livers, leading to the depletion of shark populations and damaging marine ecosystems. Furthermore, the methods used are inhumane and raise global concerns.
Why Botanical Squalane Oil is the Ethical Choice
In contrast, vegetable-based squalane oil is a more responsible and planet-friendly solution. It is extracted from plants, eliminating the need on animal harvesting. This method not only aligns with ethical practices but also delivers a premium-grade product for skincare use.
Two Key Sources of Botanical Squalane Oil
Among botanical-based squalane oils, two primary sources stand out: olive-based squalane oil and squalane oil from sugarcane. While these two offer vegan choices, their environmental impact is not the same.
Why Olive-Derived Squalane Oil Stands Out
Olive-derived squalane oil is widely regarded as preferable for sustainable reasons. Olives are a plentiful resource that are minimally wasteful. What’s more, olive squalane oil retains comparable hydrating and skin-rejuvenating qualities as other plant-based oils.
Environmental Concerns with Sugarcane Squalane Oil
In contrast, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is linked to notable issues. Sugarcane cultivation uses large quantities of water and often causes pollution. This makes it environmentally taxing than squalane oil from olives.
Why Squalane Oil is Good for Your Skin
Squalane oil offers numerous advantages for all skin types. Here’s why it stands out in skincare:
Intense Moisture: Squalane oil seeps efficiently into the skin, offering effective hydration without causing breakouts.
Balancing for Oily Skin: Its lightweight texture makes it ideal for those with combination skin.
Fights Signs of Aging: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil minimizes the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while shielding against free radicals.
Calming for Irritated Skin: Its pure formulation reduces redness, keeping it great for delicate skin.
Final Thoughts
Whether you have oily, combination skin, squalane oil offers unparalleled results. By choosing ethical options, especially olive-derived squalane oil, you embrace sustainability but also ensure your beauty routine includes one of the best solutions available.