Squalane oil has earned a vital place in the skincare industry, praised for its ability to hydrate, protect, and rejuvenate the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid innately found in human skin cells, squalane oil is a refined version of squalene, offering a longer shelf life. That said, not all squalane oil is created equal. Its origin plays a key role in determining its moral standing and environmental impact.
Breaking Down the Origins of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil can be derived from a pair of primary categories: animal-derived and vegetable-sourced materials. The choice between these categories is essential to consider for ethics and sustainability.
Animal-Based Squalane Oil
Historically, squalane oil was frequently derived from shark liver oil. Sharks are an abundant natural source of squalene, which is transformed into squalane oil. Regrettably, this practice has severe ethical issues. Millions of sharks are harvested on a massive scale for their livers, contributing to the depletion of shark populations and destabilizing marine ecosystems. Furthermore, the processes used are highly unethical and have been widely criticized.
The Rise of Plant-Based Squalane Oil
In contrast, botanical-based squalane oil is a more responsible and planet-friendly solution. It is sourced from plants, eliminating the need on animal sacrifice. This option ensures humane sourcing but also results in a safe and effective product for skincare applications.
Two Key Sources of Botanical Squalane Oil
Among vegetable-sourced squalane oils, two sources stand out: olive-derived squalane oil and sugarcane-based squalane oil. While both offer botanical options, their environmental impact differs significantly.
Why Olive-Derived Squalane Oil Stands Out
Olive-derived squalane oil is widely regarded as preferable for sustainable purposes. Olives are a sustainable resource that are minimally wasteful. What’s more, olive squalane oil offers equally excellent hydrating and skin-rejuvenating qualities as its sugarcane-derived counterpart.
Environmental Concerns with Sugarcane Squalane Oil
By comparison, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is responsible for significant issues. Sugarcane production requires excessive volumes of water and often produces environmental degradation. This makes it less eco-friendly than the olive alternative.
The Skincare Benefits of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil offers a plethora of benefits for all skin types. Here’s why it stands out in skincare:
Skin-Quenching Properties: Squalane oil absorbs efficiently into the skin, offering long-lasting hydration without clogging pores.
Perfect for Combination Skin: Its lightweight texture keeps it a great choice for those with combination skin.
Fights Signs of Aging: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil reduces the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while shielding against free radicals.
Calming for Irritated Skin: Its natural formulation reduces redness, making it perfect for easily irritated skin.
Final Thoughts
Whether you have sensitive, combination skin, squalane oil delivers remarkable results. By choosing plant-based options, most notably olive-derived squalane oil, you embrace ethical practices but also ensure your beauty routine includes one of the best products available.