Squalane oil has secured a prominent place in the skincare industry, admired for its capacity to nourish, protect, and renew the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid organically created in human skin cells, squalane oil is a refined version of squalene, offering improved longevity. However, not all squalane oil is created equal. Its derivation plays a significant role in determining its sustainability and eco-friendliness.
Where Squalane Oil Comes From
Squalane oil can be obtained from a pair of major categories: sourced from animals and botanical-based materials. The choice between these options has serious ethical ramifications.
Animal-Based Squalane Oil
In the past, squalane oil was commonly extracted from shark liver oil. Sharks are a significant provider of squalene, which is processed into squalane oil. Unfortunately, this approach has severe 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. Furthermore, the practices used are highly unethical and are environmentally destructive.
The Rise of Plant-Based Squalane Oil
In contrast, botanical-based squalane oil is a more responsible and environmentally conscious solution. It is produced from plants, eliminating the need on animal harvesting. This approach addresses animal welfare concerns but also produces a high-quality product for skincare applications.
Understanding Botanical Squalane Oil Sources
Among vegetable-sourced squalane oils, two types stand out: olive-based squalane oil and squalane oil from sugarcane. While these two offer vegan options, their eco-friendliness differs significantly.
Why Olive-Derived Squalane Oil Stands Out
Olive-derived squalane oil is considered the superior choice for ethical reasons. Olives are a plentiful resource that are minimally wasteful. 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
In contrast, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is responsible for notable eco-concerns. Sugarcane cultivation requires excessive volumes of water and often causes environmental degradation. Thus, it is less eco-friendly than the olive alternative.
Why Squalane Oil is Good for Your Skin
Squalane oil offers a plethora of skin-enhancing qualities for varied complexions. Here’s why it stands out in skincare:
Deep Hydration: Squalane oil penetrates thoroughly into the skin, delivering profound hydration without leaving a greasy residue.
Perfect for Combination Skin: Its lightweight texture ensures it’s a great choice for even the oiliest skin.
Fights Signs of Aging: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil minimizes the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while shielding against free squalene zinc oil free moisturizer review radicals.
Soothing for Sensitive Skin: Its mild formulation soothes sensitivity, rendering it ideal for easily irritated skin.
Why Squalane Oil Deserves a Spot in Your Routine
Whether you have oily, normal skin, squalane oil provides remarkable benefits. By choosing botanical options, most notably olive-derived squalane oil, you not only prioritize sustainability but also give your complexion a highly effective solutions available.