Squalane oil has secured a important place in the skincare world, admired for its power to hydrate, 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. Still, not all squalane oil is the same. Its derivation plays a crucial role in determining its ethics and environmental impact.
Understanding the Sources of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil can be obtained from a pair of primary categories: sourced from animals and vegetable-sourced materials. The choice between these options carries significant ethical implications.
Squalane Oil from Animal Sources
Traditionally, squalane oil was commonly derived from shark liver oil. Sharks are known to be provider of squalene, which is processed into squalane oil. Unfortunately, this method has severe ethical problems. Millions of sharks are harvested every year for their livers, contributing to the depletion of shark populations and disrupting marine ecosystems. Moreover, the processes used are unsustainable and have been widely criticized.
The Rise of Plant-Based Squalane Oil
In contrast, plant-derived squalane oil is a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative. It is extracted from plants, avoiding reliance on animal harvesting. This method not only aligns with ethical practices but also results in a safe and effective product for skincare use.
Plant-Based Squalane Oil: Olive vs. Sugarcane
Among botanical-based squalane oils, a pair of sources stand out: olive-derived squalane oil and sugarcane-based squalane oil. While each offer botanical options, their eco-friendliness is not the same.
Olive Squalane: A Superior Choice
Olive-derived squalane oil is considered the superior choice for ethical purposes. Olives are a renewable resource that require less water. On top of that, olive squalane oil offers comparable hydrating and skin-rejuvenating properties as its sugarcane-derived counterpart.
Why Sugarcane Squalane Oil Falls Short
By comparison, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is linked to what is squalane oil made from significant issues. Sugarcane cultivation uses large quantities of water and often results in waste. Thus, it is less eco-friendly than squalane oil from olives.
The Skincare Benefits of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil offers countless skin-enhancing qualities for every skin type. Here’s why it shines in skincare:
Skin-Quenching Properties: Squalane oil absorbs thoroughly into the skin, providing effective hydration without clogging pores.
Balancing for Oily Skin: Its lightweight texture keeps it ideal for even the oiliest skin.
Anti-Aging Properties: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil helps to combat the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while guarding against free radicals.
Calming for Irritated Skin: Its natural formulation eases irritation, keeping it ideal for reactive skin.
Why Squalane Oil Deserves a Spot in Your Routine
Whether you have dry, normal skin, squalane oil offers incredible results. By choosing ethical options, specifically olive-derived squalane oil, you embrace eco-consciousness but also ensure your beauty routine includes a highly effective products available.