Squalane oil has earned a prominent place in the skincare world, admired for its power to moisturize, protect, and revitalize the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid organically created in human skin cells, squalane oil is a refined version of squalene, offering improved longevity. That said, not all squalane oil is the same. Its derivation plays a crucial role in determining its sustainability and environmental impact.
Understanding the Sources of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil can be obtained from a pair of major categories: animal-based and vegetable-sourced materials. The choice between these categories is essential to consider for ethics and sustainability.
The Controversy of Animal-Based Squalane Oil
In the past, squalane oil was often sourced from shark-derived squalene. Sharks are known to be repository of squalene, which is processed into squalane oil. Sadly, this practice has major ethical consequences. Millions of sharks are harvested annually for their livers, contributing to the depletion of shark populations and damaging marine ecosystems. In addition, the processes used are highly unethical and raise global concerns.
Why Botanical Squalane Oil is the Ethical Choice
In contrast, plant-derived squalane oil is an ethical and eco-friendly option. It is produced from plants, removing dependency on animal sacrifice. This approach addresses animal welfare concerns but also produces a safe and effective product for skincare routines.
Plant-Based Squalane Oil: Olive vs. Sugarcane
Among vegetable-sourced squalane oils, two primary sources stand out: squalane oil from olives and sugarcane-derived squalane oil. While both offer vegan alternatives, their sustainability is not the same.
Why Olive-Derived Squalane Oil Stands Out
Olive-derived squalane oil is widely regarded as preferable for ethical considerations. Olives are a plentiful resource that generate fewer emissions. On top of that, olive squalane oil offers comparable hydrating and skin-rejuvenating qualities as its sugarcane-derived counterpart.
The Environmental Downside of Sugarcane-Derived Squalane Oil
On the other hand, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is responsible for notable eco-concerns. Sugarcane farming uses large quantities of water and often produces environmental degradation. As a result, it becomes unsustainable than squalane oil from olives.
Why Squalane Oil is Good for Your Skin
Squalane oil offers numerous benefits for all skin types. Here’s why it stands out in skincare:
Intense Moisture: Squalane oil seeps efficiently into the skin, delivering long-lasting hydration without causing breakouts.
Non-Comedogenic Benefits: Its lightweight texture ensures it’s a great choice for all skin types, including oily skin.
Anti-Aging Properties: 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 pure formulation reduces redness, rendering it ideal for delicate skin.
Why Squalane Oil Deserves a Spot in Your Routine
Whether you have dry, normal skin, squalane oil provides remarkable results. By choosing ethical options, most notably olive-derived squalane oil, you support sustainability but also ensure your beauty routine includes a highly effective solutions available.