Squalane oil has secured a vital place in the skincare world, celebrated for its capacity to hydrate, 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 improved longevity. That said, not all squalane oil is the same. Its source plays a key role in determining its sustainability and environmental impact.
Breaking Down the Origins of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil can be obtained from multiple primary sources: animal-based and plant-derived materials. The preference between these options has serious ethical ramifications.
Squalane Oil from Animal Sources
In the past, squalane oil was frequently extracted from shark liver oil. Sharks are known to be repository of squalene, which is processed into squalane oil. Regrettably, this approach has severe ethical problems. Millions of sharks are harvested every year for their livers, causing the depletion of shark populations and disrupting marine ecosystems. In addition, the methods used are inhumane and are environmentally destructive.
The Rise of Plant-Based Squalane Oil
In contrast, vegetable-based squalane oil is an ethical and planet-friendly solution. It is sourced from plants, removing dependency on animal sacrifice. This option addresses animal welfare concerns 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: olive-based squalane oil and sugarcane-derived squalane oil. While each offer plant-based options, their sustainability differs significantly.
The Benefits of Olive-Derived Squalane Oil
Olive-derived squalane oil is considered the superior choice for environmental considerations. Olives are a renewable resource that generate fewer emissions. Additionally, olive squalane oil provides equally excellent hydrating and skin-rejuvenating properties as squalane oil from sugarcane.
Why Sugarcane Squalane Oil Falls Short
In contrast, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is associated with notable eco-concerns. Sugarcane cultivation requires excessive volumes of water and often results in pollution. This makes it environmentally taxing than olive-derived options.
The Skincare Benefits of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil offers countless skin-enhancing qualities for all skin types. Here’s why it shines in skincare:
Deep Hydration: Squalane oil absorbs deeply into the skin, delivering profound hydration without causing breakouts.
Perfect for Combination Skin: Its lightweight texture makes it ideal for even the oiliest skin.
Fights Signs of Aging: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil reduces the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while shielding against free radicals.
Soothing for Sensitive Skin: Its natural formulation soothes sensitivity, rendering it ideal for easily irritated skin.
Final Thoughts
Whether you have dry, mature skin, squalane oil provides unparalleled benefits. By choosing botanical options, specifically olive-derived squalane oil, you support eco-consciousness but also treat your skin to one of the best solutions available.