Squalane oil has secured a prominent place in the skincare world, admired for its ability to moisturize, protect, and renew the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid naturally produced in human skin cells, squalane oil is a hydrogenated version of squalene, offering a longer shelf life. However, not all squalane oil is of the same quality. Its origin plays a key role in determining its sustainability and eco-friendliness.
Breaking Down the Origins of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil can be derived from multiple major origins: animal-based and botanical-based materials. The preference between these options is essential to consider for ethics and sustainability.
Animal-Based Squalane Oil
In the past, squalane oil was frequently extracted from shark liver oil. Sharks are a significant repository of squalene, which is processed into squalane oil. Sadly, this approach has major ethical problems. Millions of sharks are killed every year for their livers, causing the depletion of shark populations and destabilizing marine ecosystems. Furthermore, the methods used are highly unethical and are environmentally destructive.
Why Botanical Squalane Oil is the Ethical Choice
In contrast, botanical-based squalane oil is an ethical and environmentally conscious solution. It is produced from plants, removing dependency on animal slaughter. This option ensures humane sourcing but also produces a premium-grade product for skincare routines.
Two Key Sources of Botanical Squalane Oil
Among botanical-based squalane oils, two categories stand out: olive-derived squalane oil and sugarcane-derived squalane oil. While these two offer vegan alternatives, their environmental impact differs significantly.
Olive Squalane: A Superior Choice
Olive-derived squalane oil is viewed as better for environmental purposes. Olives are a renewable resource that are minimally wasteful. Additionally, olive squalane oil retains comparable 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 linked to notable eco-concerns. Sugarcane farming requires massive amounts of water and often causes waste. As a result, it becomes environmentally taxing than the olive alternative.
Why Squalane Oil is Good for Your Skin
Squalane oil offers countless advantages for every skin type. Here’s why it shines in skincare:
Intense Moisture: Squalane oil absorbs deeply into the skin, offering profound hydration without clogging pores.
Perfect for Combination Skin: Its lightweight texture keeps it suitable for those with combination skin.
Anti-Aging Properties: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil squalane oil shelf life helps to combat the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while shielding against free radicals.
Soothing for Sensitive Skin: Its natural formulation reduces redness, making it perfect for delicate skin.
Final Thoughts
Whether you have dry, normal skin, squalane oil delivers incredible results. By choosing botanical options, specifically olive-derived squalane oil, you embrace ethical practices but also treat your skin to a superior ingredients available.