Squalane oil has earned a vital place in the skincare industry, celebrated for its capacity to hydrate, protect, and revitalize the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid innately found in human skin cells, squalane oil is a refined version of squalene, offering a longer shelf life. Still, not all squalane oil is created equal. Its source plays a significant role in determining its sustainability and environmental impact.
Understanding the Sources of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil can be sourced from multiple key categories: animal-derived and plant-derived materials. The choice between these options is essential to consider for ethics and sustainability.
Squalane Oil from Animal Sources
In the past, squalane oil was commonly derived from the livers of sharks. Sharks are known to be repository of squalene, which is converted into squalane oil. Unfortunately, this approach has serious ethical issues. Millions of sharks are killed annually for their livers, leading to the depletion of shark populations and destabilizing marine ecosystems. In addition, the practices used are highly unethical and have been widely criticized.
Botanical-Based Squalane Oil
In contrast, botanical-based squalane oil is an ethical and eco-friendly alternative. It is extracted from plants, avoiding reliance on animal harvesting. This method not only aligns with ethical practices but also delivers a premium-grade product for skincare use.
Plant-Based Squalane Oil: Olive vs. Sugarcane
Among botanical-based squalane oils, a pair of types stand out: squalane oil from olives and squalane oil from sugarcane. While each offer botanical options, their sustainability is not the same.
Why Olive-Derived Squalane Oil Stands Out
Olive-derived squalane oil is viewed as the superior choice for environmental considerations. Olives are a sustainable resource that generate fewer emissions. Additionally, olive squalane oil retains comparable hydrating and skin-rejuvenating properties as its sugarcane-derived counterpart.
Why Sugarcane Squalane Oil Falls Short
In contrast, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is responsible for substantial eco-concerns. Sugarcane production requires large quantities of water and often produces pollution. As a result, it becomes environmentally taxing than the olive alternative.
Squalane Oil: A Skin Savior
Squalane oil offers countless benefits for all skin types. Here’s why it shines in skincare:
Skin-Quenching Properties: Squalane oil absorbs deeply into the skin, providing effective hydration without clogging pores.
Perfect for Combination Skin: Its lightweight texture ensures it’s suitable for all skin types, including oily skin.
Anti-Aging Properties: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil helps to combat the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while shielding against free radicals.
Soothing for Sensitive Skin: Its natural formulation eases irritation, rendering it perfect for easily irritated skin.
Final Thoughts
Whether you have oily, mature skin, squalane oil provides remarkable benefits. By choosing botanical options, most notably olive-derived squalane oil, you not only prioritize eco-consciousness but also give your complexion a highly effective products available.