Squalane oil has earned a important place in the skincare industry, admired for its capacity to nourish, defend, and rejuvenate the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid innately found in human skin cells, squalane oil is a stabilized version of squalene, offering a longer shelf life. Still, not all squalane oil is created equal. Its origin plays a key role in determining its ethics and effect on the planet.
Understanding the Sources of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil can be obtained from multiple major sources: animal-derived and plant-derived materials. The preference between these options is essential to consider for ethics and sustainability.
Animal-Based Squalane Oil
In the past, squalane oil was often derived from shark-derived squalene. Sharks are known to be natural source of squalene, which is converted into squalane oil. Unfortunately, this practice has severe ethical consequences. Millions of sharks are slaughtered on a massive scale for their livers, contributing to the depletion of shark populations and disrupting marine ecosystems. Moreover, the practices used are highly unethical and raise global concerns.
Botanical-Based Squalane Oil
In contrast, vegetable-based squalane oil is a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative. It is produced from plants, avoiding reliance on animal slaughter. This method not only aligns with ethical practices but also produces a high-quality product for skincare applications.
Two Key Sources of Botanical Squalane Oil
Among vegetable-sourced squalane oils, two primary categories stand out: olive-derived squalane oil and squalane oil from sugarcane. While both offer plant-based alternatives, their eco-friendliness is not the same.
Olive Squalane: A Superior Choice
Olive-derived squalane oil is widely regarded as the superior choice for ethical reasons. Olives are a plentiful resource that require less water. On top of that, olive squalane oil offers the same hydrating and skin-rejuvenating benefits as squalane oil from sugarcane.
The Environmental Downside of Sugarcane-Derived Squalane Oil
By comparison, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is linked to notable issues. Sugarcane farming requires massive squalane oil vs hyaluronic acid amounts of water and often causes waste. Thus, it is environmentally taxing than the olive alternative.
The Skincare Benefits of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil offers numerous skin-enhancing qualities for all skin types. Here’s why it shines in skincare:
Skin-Quenching Properties: Squalane oil penetrates thoroughly into the skin, delivering profound hydration without leaving a greasy residue.
Balancing for Oily Skin: Its lightweight texture keeps it suitable for those with combination skin.
Fights Signs of Aging: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil helps to combat the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while shielding against free radicals.
Calming for Irritated 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, mature skin, squalane oil delivers unparalleled advantages. By choosing botanical options, especially olive-derived squalane oil, you embrace ethical practices but also treat your skin to a highly effective ingredients available.