Squalane oil has earned a prominent place in the skincare world, praised for its capacity to moisturize, protect, and rejuvenate the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid innately found in human skin cells, squalane oil is a stabilized version of squalene, offering enhanced stability. Still, not all squalane oil is of the same quality. Its origin plays a key role in determining its ethics and effect on the planet.
Breaking Down the Origins of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil can be derived from a pair of key sources: sourced from animals and vegetable-sourced materials. The choice between these options carries significant ethical implications.
Animal-Based Squalane Oil
In the past, squalane oil was frequently sourced from shark liver oil. Sharks are a significant natural source of squalene, which is converted into squalane oil. Regrettably, this approach has major ethical issues. Millions of sharks are harvested on a massive scale for their livers, leading to the depletion of shark populations and damaging marine ecosystems. In addition, the methods used are inhumane and are environmentally destructive.
Botanical-Based Squalane Oil
In contrast, plant-derived squalane oil is a sustainable and planet-friendly alternative. It is extracted from plants, removing dependency on animal slaughter. This method addresses animal welfare concerns but also results in a high-quality product for skincare applications.
Plant-Based Squalane Oil: Olive vs. Sugarcane
Among vegetable-sourced squalane oils, a pair of sources stand out: olive-derived squalane oil and squalane oil from sugarcane. While both offer plant-based options, their sustainability differs significantly.
Olive Squalane: A Superior Choice
Olive-derived squalane oil is widely regarded as the superior choice for ethical considerations. Olives are a plentiful resource that require less water. Additionally, olive squalane oil provides comparable hydrating and skin-rejuvenating properties as other plant-based oils.
Why Sugarcane Squalane Oil Falls Short
On the other hand, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is linked to significant issues. Sugarcane farming requires large quantities of water and often results in pollution. This makes it environmentally taxing than olive-derived options.
Why Squalane Oil is Good for Your Skin
Squalane oil offers numerous advantages for all skin types. Here’s why it is so highly regarded in skincare:
Intense Moisture: Squalane oil seeps efficiently into the skin, offering long-lasting hydration without causing breakouts.
Non-Comedogenic Benefits: Its lightweight texture ensures it’s ideal for those with combination skin.
Fights Signs of Aging: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil reduces the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while protecting against free radicals.
Calming for Irritated Skin: Its pure formulation soothes sensitivity, making it ideal for easily irritated skin.
Final Thoughts
Whether you have oily, combination skin, squalane oil provides incredible advantages. By choosing ethical options, specifically olive-derived squalane oil, you embrace sustainability but also give your complexion one of the best solutions available.