Squalane oil has earned a prominent place in the skincare market, 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 hydrogenated version of squalene, offering improved longevity. That said, not all squalane oil is of the same quality. Its source plays a significant role in determining its ethics and environmental impact.
Understanding the Sources of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil can be obtained from a pair of major categories: sourced from animals and vegetable-sourced materials. The choice between these options has serious ethical ramifications.
Squalane Oil from Animal Sources
Traditionally, squalane oil was commonly sourced from the livers of sharks. Sharks are known to be provider of squalene, which is transformed into squalane oil. Sadly, this method has major ethical problems. Millions of sharks are killed every year for their livers, leading to the depletion of shark populations and damaging marine ecosystems. Furthermore, the practices used are highly unethical and raise global concerns.
Botanical-Based Squalane Oil
In contrast, plant-derived squalane oil is a more responsible and environmentally conscious solution. It is produced from plants, eliminating the need on animal harvesting. This option addresses animal welfare concerns but also delivers a premium-grade product for skincare use.
Two Key Sources of Botanical Squalane Oil
Among botanical-based squalane oils, two primary types stand out: olive-derived squalane oil and sugarcane-derived squalane oil. While these two offer plant-based alternatives, their sustainability differs significantly.
Why Olive-Derived Squalane Oil Stands Out
Olive-derived squalane oil is viewed as better for ethical considerations. Olives are a plentiful resource that require less water. On top of that, olive squalane oil offers squalane oil benefits for skin equally excellent hydrating and skin-rejuvenating benefits as its sugarcane-derived counterpart.
Why Sugarcane Squalane Oil Falls Short
On the other hand, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is associated with significant environmental challenges. Sugarcane farming requires massive amounts of water and often produces environmental degradation. As a result, it becomes less eco-friendly than squalane oil from olives.
Squalane Oil: A Skin Savior
Squalane oil offers numerous advantages for varied complexions. Here’s why it stands out in skincare:
Intense Moisture: Squalane oil seeps thoroughly into the skin, offering profound hydration without clogging pores.
Balancing for Oily Skin: Its lightweight texture makes it a great choice for those with combination skin.
Reduces Fine Lines: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil reduces the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while shielding against free radicals.
Gentle Yet Effective: Its mild formulation eases irritation, making it perfect for delicate skin.
Why Squalane Oil Deserves a Spot in Your Routine
Whether you have sensitive, combination skin, squalane oil delivers unparalleled results. By choosing ethical options, most notably olive-derived squalane oil, you not only prioritize eco-consciousness but also give your complexion a superior ingredients available.