Squalane oil has secured a important place in the skincare industry, admired for its power to nourish, shield, 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. That said, not all squalane oil is of the same quality. Its origin plays a key role in determining its ethics and eco-friendliness.
Breaking Down the Origins of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil can be derived from two major origins: sourced from animals and botanical-based materials. The preference between these categories is essential to consider for ethics and sustainability.
Squalane Oil from Animal Sources
Traditionally, squalane oil was frequently extracted from shark-derived squalene. Sharks are a significant provider of squalene, which is processed into squalane oil. Regrettably, this approach has serious ethical problems. Millions of sharks are harvested on a massive scale for their livers, contributing to the depletion of shark populations and damaging marine ecosystems. Furthermore, the methods used are unsustainable and have been widely criticized.
Why Botanical Squalane Oil is the Ethical Choice
In contrast, botanical-based squalane oil is an ethical and eco-friendly option. It is extracted from plants, avoiding reliance on animal slaughter. This method not only aligns with ethical practices but also produces a safe and effective product for skincare use.
Plant-Based Squalane Oil: Olive vs. Sugarcane
Among botanical-based squalane oils, two categories stand out: olive-based squalane oil and squalane oil from sugarcane. While each offer botanical choices, their environmental impact is not the same.
Olive Squalane: A Superior Choice
Olive-derived squalane oil is considered the superior choice for sustainable considerations. Olives are a plentiful resource that require less water. On top of that, olive squalane oil provides equally excellent hydrating and skin-rejuvenating properties as squalane oil from sugarcane.
Why Sugarcane Squalane Oil Falls Short
On the other hand, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is associated with significant issues. Sugarcane farming consumes massive amounts of water and often results in waste. This makes it unsustainable than squalane oil from olives.
The Skincare Benefits of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil offers numerous advantages for varied complexions. Here’s why it is so highly regarded in skincare:
Skin-Quenching Properties: Squalane oil seeps efficiently into the skin, providing long-lasting hydration without causing breakouts.
Perfect for Combination Skin: Its lightweight texture squalane oil on body keeps it suitable for even the oiliest skin.
Reduces Fine Lines: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil minimizes the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while shielding against free radicals.
Soothing for Sensitive Skin: Its natural formulation soothes sensitivity, keeping it great for easily irritated skin.
Final Thoughts
Whether you have dry, combination skin, squalane oil provides unparalleled results. By choosing ethical options, most notably olive-derived squalane oil, you support ethical practices but also treat your skin to one of the best ingredients available.