Squalane oil has earned a vital place in the skincare market, praised for its power to nourish, shield, and renew the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid innately found in human skin cells, squalane oil is a refined version of squalene, offering enhanced stability. That said, not all squalane oil is of the same quality. Its derivation plays a key role in determining its moral standing and environmental impact.
Where Squalane Oil Comes From
Squalane oil can be derived from two key origins: sourced from animals and vegetable-sourced materials. The preference between these categories is essential to consider for ethics and sustainability.
Squalane Oil from Animal Sources
Traditionally, squalane oil was commonly derived from the livers of sharks. Sharks are known to be repository of squalene, which is converted into squalane oil. Regrettably, this approach has severe ethical issues. Millions of sharks are killed every year for their livers, causing the depletion of shark populations and damaging marine ecosystems. Furthermore, the processes used are highly unethical and are environmentally destructive.
The Rise of Plant-Based Squalane Oil
In contrast, plant-derived squalane oil is an ethical and environmentally conscious alternative. It is extracted from plants, avoiding reliance on animal sacrifice. This approach ensures humane sourcing but also results in a safe and effective product for skincare applications.
Understanding Botanical Squalane Oil Sources
Among vegetable-sourced squalane oils, two sources stand out: olive-based squalane oil and sugarcane-based squalane oil. While these two offer botanical alternatives, their environmental impact varies greatly.
Olive Squalane: A Superior Choice
Olive-derived squalane oil is considered preferable for sustainable reasons. Olives are a renewable resource that are minimally wasteful. What’s more, olive squalane oil provides comparable hydrating and skin-rejuvenating properties as squalane oil from sugarcane.
Environmental Concerns with Sugarcane Squalane Oil
By comparison, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is associated with notable environmental challenges. Sugarcane farming uses excessive volumes of water and often results in waste. As a result, it becomes unsustainable than squalane oil from olives.
The Skincare Benefits of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil offers numerous benefits for varied complexions. Here’s why it shines in skincare:
Intense Moisture: Squalane oil seeps efficiently into the skin, offering long-lasting hydration without clogging pores.
Non-Comedogenic Benefits: Its lightweight texture keeps it a great choice for all skin types, including oily skin.
Reduces Fine Lines: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil reduces the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while guarding against free radicals.
Gentle Yet Effective: Its natural formulation eases irritation, making it great for delicate skin.
Final Thoughts
Whether you have oily, combination skin, squalane oil offers remarkable results. By choosing plant-based options, most notably olive-derived squalane oil, you not only prioritize eco-consciousness but also give your complexion a superior solutions available.