Squalane oil has earned a important place in the skincare industry, celebrated for its capacity to nourish, protect, and rejuvenate the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid squalane oil before and after innately found in human skin cells, squalane oil is a refined version of squalene, offering improved longevity. Still, not all squalane oil is of the same quality. Its source plays a crucial role in determining its ethics and eco-friendliness.
Where Squalane Oil Comes From
Squalane oil can be sourced from multiple key sources: animal-based and botanical-based materials. The preference between these options has serious ethical ramifications.
Animal-Based Squalane Oil
Historically, squalane oil was often derived from shark liver oil. Sharks are known to be natural source of squalene, which is converted into squalane oil. Unfortunately, this method has severe 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 methods used are inhumane and raise global concerns.
Why Botanical Squalane Oil is the Ethical Choice
In contrast, botanical-based squalane oil is a sustainable and environmentally conscious option. It is extracted from plants, eliminating the need on animal slaughter. This option addresses animal welfare concerns but also produces a safe and effective product for skincare use.
Two Key Sources of Botanical Squalane Oil
Among vegetable-sourced squalane oils, two primary sources stand out: squalane oil from olives and squalane oil from sugarcane. While these two offer vegan choices, their sustainability varies greatly.
Olive Squalane: A Superior Choice
Olive-derived squalane oil is considered the superior choice for sustainable purposes. Olives are a plentiful resource that generate fewer emissions. Additionally, olive squalane oil offers equally excellent hydrating and skin-rejuvenating benefits as other plant-based oils.
Why Sugarcane Squalane Oil Falls Short
In contrast, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is associated with notable eco-concerns. Sugarcane production requires massive amounts of water and often produces waste. Thus, it is unsustainable than squalane oil from olives.
Why Squalane Oil is Good for Your Skin
Squalane oil offers numerous benefits for all skin types. Here’s why it is so highly regarded in skincare:
Intense Moisture: Squalane oil absorbs thoroughly into the skin, delivering profound hydration without leaving a greasy residue.
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 helps to combat the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while guarding against free radicals.
Soothing for Sensitive Skin: Its natural formulation eases irritation, making it perfect for reactive skin.
Why Squalane Oil Deserves a Spot in Your Routine
Whether you have sensitive, combination skin, squalane oil provides incredible results. By choosing botanical options, specifically olive-derived squalane oil, you not only prioritize eco-consciousness but also treat your skin to a highly effective solutions available.