Squalane oil has earned a important place in the skincare industry, celebrated for its power to hydrate, defend, and rejuvenate the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid innately found in human skin cells, squalane oil is a refined version of squalene, offering enhanced stability. However, not all squalane oil is created equal. Its origin plays a key role in determining its sustainability and environmental impact.
Breaking Down the Origins of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil can be derived from a pair of primary sources: sourced from animals and vegetable-sourced materials. The decision between these sources is essential to consider for ethics and sustainability.
Squalane Oil from Animal Sources
Historically, squalane oil was frequently extracted from the livers of sharks. Sharks are an abundant provider of squalene, which is transformed into squalane oil. Unfortunately, this method has major ethical consequences. Millions of sharks are harvested annually for their livers, leading to the depletion of shark populations and destabilizing marine ecosystems. Moreover, the practices used are highly unethical and raise global concerns.
Why Botanical Squalane Oil is the Ethical Choice
In contrast, botanical-based squalane oil is a sustainable and environmentally conscious alternative. It is extracted from plants, eliminating the need on animal sacrifice. This approach not only aligns with ethical practices but also results in a safe and effective product for skincare applications.
Understanding Botanical Squalane Oil Sources
Among vegetable-sourced squalane oils, a pair of sources stand out: squalane oil from olives and squalane oil from sugarcane. While these two offer botanical choices, their eco-friendliness differs significantly.
Olive Squalane: A Superior Choice
Olive-derived squalane oil is widely regarded as the superior choice for sustainable considerations. Olives are a renewable resource that require less water. What’s more, olive squalane oil retains the same hydrating and skin-rejuvenating benefits as its sugarcane-derived counterpart.
Environmental Concerns with Sugarcane Squalane Oil
On the other hand, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is responsible for substantial issues. Sugarcane cultivation requires large quantities of water and often causes environmental degradation. Thus, it is environmentally taxing than squalane oil from olives.
Squalane Oil: A Skin Savior
Squalane oil offers numerous skin-enhancing qualities for varied complexions. Here’s why it shines in skincare:
Intense Moisture: Squalane oil absorbs thoroughly into the skin, offering profound hydration without leaving a greasy residue.
Balancing for Oily Skin: Its lightweight texture makes it ideal for those with combination skin.
Anti-Aging Properties: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil helps to combat the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while guarding against free radicals.
Soothing for Sensitive Skin: Its pure formulation soothes sensitivity, making it great for easily irritated skin.
Final Thoughts
Whether you have oily, normal skin, squalane oil delivers incredible benefits. By choosing plant-based options, specifically olive-derived squalane oil, you embrace eco-consciousness but also give your complexion one of the best ingredients available.