Squalane oil has secured a important place in the skincare world, celebrated for its capacity to nourish, protect, and renew the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid organically created in human skin cells, squalane oil is a hydrogenated version of squalene, offering a longer shelf life. That said, not all squalane oil is the same. Its origin plays a key role in determining its ethics and environmental impact.
Understanding the Sources of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil can be derived from a pair of primary sources: animal-derived and botanical-based materials. The choice between these sources carries significant ethical implications.
Squalane Oil from Animal Sources
Historically, squalane oil was often extracted from shark-derived squalene. Sharks are known to be natural source of squalene, which is transformed into squalane oil. Regrettably, this method has serious ethical consequences. Millions of sharks are harvested on a massive scale for their livers, causing the depletion of shark populations and damaging marine ecosystems. Furthermore, the practices used are inhumane and have been widely criticized.
Botanical-Based Squalane Oil
In contrast, plant-derived squalane oil is a sustainable and eco-friendly solution. It is produced from plants, removing dependency on animal harvesting. This option not only aligns with ethical practices but also produces a safe and effective product for skincare applications.
Understanding Botanical Squalane Oil Sources
Among vegetable-sourced squalane oils, a pair of types stand out: olive-derived squalane oil and squalane oil from sugarcane. While these two offer botanical alternatives, their environmental impact is not the same.
Why Olive-Derived Squalane Oil Stands Out
Olive-derived squalane oil is widely regarded as better for sustainable purposes. Olives are a plentiful resource that generate fewer emissions. What’s more, olive squalane oil retains comparable hydrating and skin-rejuvenating properties as its sugarcane-derived counterpart.
Environmental Concerns with Sugarcane Squalane Oil
On the other hand, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is responsible for notable issues. Sugarcane farming requires massive amounts of water and often results in waste. This makes it less eco-friendly than the olive alternative.
Why Squalane Oil is Good for Your Skin
Squalane oil offers countless skin-enhancing qualities for all skin types. Here’s why it stands out in skincare:
Intense Moisture: olive squalane oil Squalane oil seeps deeply into the skin, providing effective hydration without clogging pores.
Non-Comedogenic Benefits: Its lightweight texture makes it suitable for even the oiliest skin.
Reduces Fine Lines: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil helps to combat the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while protecting against free radicals.
Calming for Irritated Skin: Its mild formulation eases irritation, making it perfect for reactive skin.
Final Thoughts
Whether you have oily, combination skin, squalane oil provides remarkable results. By choosing ethical options, specifically olive-derived squalane oil, you embrace sustainability but also ensure your beauty routine includes a superior solutions available.