Squalane oil has earned a vital place in the skincare market, admired for its capacity to nourish, defend, and rejuvenate 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 the same. Its origin plays a significant role in determining its moral standing and environmental impact.
Where Squalane Oil Comes From
Squalane oil can be obtained from a pair of primary sources: animal-based and botanical-based materials. The choice between these options has serious ethical ramifications.
The Controversy of Animal-Based Squalane Oil
In the past, squalane oil was often sourced from shark-derived squalene. Sharks are an abundant natural source of squalene, which is converted into squalane oil. Sadly, this practice has serious ethical issues. Millions of sharks are killed on a massive scale for their livers, contributing to the depletion of shark populations and disrupting marine ecosystems. Moreover, the processes used are highly unethical and have been widely criticized.
Why Botanical Squalane Oil is the Ethical Choice
In contrast, plant-derived squalane oil is a sustainable squalane oil sugarcane and planet-friendly solution. It is sourced from plants, eliminating the need on animal harvesting. This approach not only aligns with ethical practices but also results in a premium-grade product for skincare applications.
Two Key Sources of Botanical Squalane Oil
Among vegetable-sourced squalane oils, a pair of sources stand out: olive-derived squalane oil and sugarcane-derived squalane oil. While each offer botanical options, their environmental impact differs significantly.
Olive Squalane: A Superior Choice
Olive-derived squalane oil is viewed as the superior choice for environmental purposes. Olives are a plentiful resource that require less water. What’s more, olive squalane oil provides equally excellent hydrating and skin-rejuvenating properties as its sugarcane-derived counterpart.
The Environmental Downside of Sugarcane-Derived Squalane Oil
In contrast, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is linked to substantial eco-concerns. Sugarcane production uses large quantities of water and often results in environmental degradation. As a result, it becomes unsustainable than squalane oil from olives.
The Skincare Benefits of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil offers a plethora of skin-enhancing qualities for all skin types. Here’s why it stands out in skincare:
Intense Moisture: Squalane oil penetrates efficiently into the skin, offering long-lasting hydration without leaving a greasy residue.
Balancing for Oily Skin: Its lightweight texture keeps it ideal for all skin types, including oily skin.
Fights Signs of Aging: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil minimizes the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while protecting against free radicals.
Soothing for Sensitive Skin: Its mild formulation soothes sensitivity, keeping it great for reactive skin.
Why Squalane Oil Deserves a Spot in Your Routine
Whether you have dry, normal skin, squalane oil delivers remarkable benefits. By choosing ethical options, especially olive-derived squalane oil, you not only prioritize ethical practices but also ensure your beauty routine includes a superior solutions available.