Squalane oil has secured a important place in the skincare market, praised for its ability to moisturize, defend, and renew the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid organically created in human skin cells, squalane oil is a stabilized version of squalene, offering a longer shelf life. However, not all squalane oil is of the same quality. Its source plays a crucial role in determining its sustainability and effect on the planet.
Understanding the Sources of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil can be sourced from two major origins: animal-based and vegetable-sourced materials. The decision between these categories is essential to consider for ethics and sustainability.
Animal-Based Squalane Oil
Traditionally, squalane oil was commonly sourced from the livers of sharks. Sharks are an abundant repository of squalene, which is converted into squalane oil. Unfortunately, this method has major ethical problems. Millions of sharks are slaughtered every year for their livers, causing the depletion of shark populations and disrupting marine ecosystems. Moreover, the methods used are inhumane and raise global concerns.
Botanical-Based Squalane Oil
In contrast, botanical-based squalane oil is a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative. It is produced from plants, eliminating the need on animal slaughter. This option not only aligns with ethical practices but also results in a high-quality product for skincare routines.
Two Key Sources of Botanical Squalane Oil
Among vegetable-sourced squalane oils, two primary categories stand out: squalane oil from olives and sugarcane-derived squalane oil. While each offer plant-based choices, their sustainability differs significantly.
Why Olive-Derived Squalane Oil Stands Out
Olive-derived squalane oil is widely regarded as preferable for environmental reasons. Olives are a renewable 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
On the other hand, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is associated with substantial eco-concerns. Sugarcane cultivation requires excessive volumes of water and often causes environmental degradation. As a result, it becomes unsustainable than squalane oil from olives.
Squalane Oil: A Skin Savior
Squalane oil offers a plethora of benefits for every skin type. Here’s why it stands out in skincare:
Deep Hydration: Squalane oil seeps efficiently into the skin, delivering effective hydration without leaving a greasy residue.
Perfect for Combination Skin: Its lightweight texture makes it suitable for those with combination skin.
Fights Signs of Aging: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil minimizes the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while guarding against free radicals.
Soothing for Sensitive Skin: Its mild formulation reduces redness, rendering it perfect for delicate skin.
Why Squalane Oil Deserves a Spot in Your Routine
Whether you have sensitive, normal skin, squalane oil offers remarkable advantages. By choosing ethical options, especially olive-derived squalane oil, you support ethical practices but also give your complexion a highly effective products available.