Squalane oil has gained a vital place in the skincare industry, praised for its ability to nourish, protect, and revitalize the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid innately found in human skin cells, squalane oil is a hydrogenated version of squalene, offering improved longevity. However, not all squalane oil is the same. Its origin plays a crucial role in determining its sustainability and eco-friendliness.
Breaking Down the Origins of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil can be sourced from multiple major sources: animal-based and plant-derived materials. The preference between these categories has serious ethical ramifications.
Animal-Based Squalane Oil
In the past, squalane oil was commonly derived from shark liver oil. Sharks are a significant repository of squalene, which is transformed into squalane oil. Sadly, this approach has serious ethical consequences. Millions of sharks are slaughtered on a massive scale for their livers, contributing to the depletion of shark populations and damaging marine ecosystems. In addition, the methods used are inhumane and raise global concerns.
Why Botanical Squalane Oil is the Ethical Choice
In contrast, botanical-based squalane oil is an ethical and planet-friendly alternative. It is extracted from plants, eliminating the need on animal harvesting. This method ensures humane sourcing but also produces a premium-grade product for skincare routines.
Plant-Based Squalane Oil: Olive vs. Sugarcane
Among botanical-based squalane oils, two sources stand out: olive-based squalane oil and squalane oil from sugarcane. While each offer plant-based alternatives, their eco-friendliness 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 renewable squalane oil hair resource that generate fewer emissions. What’s more, olive squalane oil retains equally excellent hydrating and skin-rejuvenating properties as other plant-based oils.
Why Sugarcane Squalane Oil Falls Short
By comparison, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is linked to notable issues. Sugarcane farming consumes massive amounts of water and often results in waste. Thus, it is less eco-friendly than olive-derived options.
Why Squalane Oil is Good for Your Skin
Squalane oil offers a plethora of advantages for varied complexions. Here’s why it is so highly regarded in skincare:
Intense Moisture: Squalane oil seeps thoroughly into the skin, providing profound hydration without causing breakouts.
Balancing for Oily Skin: Its lightweight texture makes it suitable for all skin types, including oily skin.
Reduces Fine Lines: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil helps to combat the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while shielding against free radicals.
Calming for Irritated Skin: Its mild formulation eases irritation, rendering it great for easily irritated skin.
Why Squalane Oil Deserves a Spot in Your Routine
Whether you have oily, combination skin, squalane oil offers remarkable advantages. By choosing botanical options, most notably olive-derived squalane oil, you embrace ethical practices but also ensure your beauty routine includes a highly effective products available.