Squalane oil has secured a vital place in the skincare industry, admired for its ability to nourish, shield, 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. That said, not all squalane oil is of the same quality. Its derivation plays a significant role in determining its ethics and environmental impact.
Where Squalane Oil Comes From
Squalane oil can be obtained from a pair of key origins: animal-based and vegetable-sourced materials. The preference between these options carries significant ethical implications.
Animal-Based Squalane Oil
In the past, squalane oil was often sourced from shark-derived squalene. Sharks are an abundant repository of squalene, which is transformed into squalane oil. Unfortunately, this method has major ethical issues. Millions of sharks are slaughtered on a massive scale for their livers, leading to the depletion of shark populations and destabilizing marine ecosystems. Moreover, the practices used are highly unethical and are environmentally destructive.
Why Botanical Squalane Oil is the Ethical Choice
In contrast, plant-derived squalane oil is a sustainable and planet-friendly option. It is extracted from plants, eliminating the need on animal harvesting. This method not only aligns with ethical practices but also produces a high-quality product for skincare routines.
Understanding Botanical Squalane Oil Sources
Among botanical-based squalane oils, two categories stand out: squalane oil from olives and squalane oil from sugarcane. While squalane oil benefits for skin and hair these two offer plant-based choices, their environmental impact is not the same.
The Benefits of Olive-Derived Squalane Oil
Olive-derived squalane oil is considered preferable for sustainable considerations. Olives are a renewable resource that generate fewer emissions. What’s more, olive squalane oil retains equally excellent hydrating and skin-rejuvenating benefits as other plant-based oils.
The Environmental Downside of Sugarcane-Derived Squalane Oil
By comparison, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is associated with notable environmental challenges. Sugarcane cultivation uses massive amounts of water and often produces environmental degradation. Thus, it is environmentally taxing than olive-derived options.
Squalane Oil: A Skin Savior
Squalane oil offers countless advantages for all skin types. Here’s why it shines in skincare:
Intense Moisture: Squalane oil absorbs thoroughly into the skin, offering effective hydration without causing breakouts.
Perfect for Combination Skin: Its lightweight texture makes it a great choice for even the oiliest skin.
Reduces Fine Lines: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil reduces the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while guarding against free radicals.
Soothing for Sensitive Skin: Its pure formulation soothes sensitivity, rendering it great for easily irritated skin.
Final Thoughts
Whether you have sensitive, combination skin, squalane oil delivers remarkable advantages. By choosing botanical options, specifically olive-derived squalane oil, you support ethical practices but also ensure your beauty routine includes a superior products available.